Styria, or Steiermark, located in southeastern Austria, is a state that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. From stunning alpine scenery to charming historic towns and delicious cuisine, Styria has something for every type of traveller.
One of the main attractions of Styria is its breathtaking natural beauty. The region is home to the Dachstein Mountains, which offer stunning vistas and outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and climbing. The region is also famous for its vineyards, which produce some of Austria’s finest wines. Visitors can take tours of local vineyards and sample delicious wines while enjoying the picturesque countryside.
Styria is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous historic towns and cities, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Graz. The capital city of Graz is home to many impressive landmarks, such as the Schlossberg and the Eggenberg Palace. Visitors can also explore the region’s many charming villages and towns, such as the picturesque town of Bad Aussee.
Styria is also famous for its delicious cuisine, with a variety of traditional dishes that showcase the region’s fresh and flavorful ingredients. Local specialties include pumpkin seed oil, Styrian apples, and the famous Styrian fried chicken. Visitors can also indulge in a variety of sweet treats, including the delicious Styrian-style cream cakes and gingerbread.
For those seeking relaxation and wellness, Styria offers numerous spa resorts and thermal baths, including the famous Loipersdorf Thermal Spa. Visitors can enjoy a variety of wellness treatments, including massages, saunas, and hot springs, while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Overall, Styria is a fantastic holiday destination that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, it is sure to leave visitors with memories that will last a lifetime.
THINGS TO DO IN STYRIA
Styria is a beautiful state in Austria with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. From exploring charming villages to hiking in the mountains, Styria offers something for everyone.
One of the top attractions in Styria is the city of Graz, the state’s capital. Graz is known for its well-preserved old town, which features medieval and Renaissance architecture, including the famous Clock Tower and the Graz Cathedral. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s many museums, such as the Kunsthaus Graz, which houses contemporary art exhibits.
Another must-visit attraction in Styria is the region’s wine country, particularly the South Styrian Wine Road. Visitors can sample local wines, enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine, and take in the scenic views of the rolling hills and vineyards.
For those who love the outdoors, Styria offers a variety of hiking and skiing opportunities. The Dachstein Mountains are a popular destination for hikers, while the Schladming-Dachstein ski area is one of the largest in Austria, with over 120 kilometers of slopes.
Styria is also home to several historic towns, such as Bad Aussee, a charming spa town with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the town’s museums, take a dip in the thermal baths, and enjoy the stunning mountain views.
Finally, Styria is known for its delicious cuisine, particularly its famous pumpkin seed oil. Visitors can indulge in this and other traditional Austrian dishes at local restaurants and cafes throughout the region.
Overall, Styria is a region with a diverse range of attractions and activities that are sure to delight visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or food and drink, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful part of Austria.
PLACES TO VISIT IN STYRIA
Styria is known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, and historic architecture. Here are some of the best towns and cities to visit in Styria:
- Graz – Graz is the capital city of Styria and is known for its well-preserved historic architecture, including its castle and town walls. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved city center.
- Schladming – Schladming is a popular winter sports destination and is known for its ski slopes and winter sports events. It is also a great place to visit in the summer, with its beautiful natural surroundings and hiking trails.
- Bad Aussee – Bad Aussee is a charming town located in the heart of the Salzkammergut region. It is known for its traditional architecture, local handicrafts, and beautiful natural surroundings.
- Leoben – Leoben is a historic mining town located in the foothills of the Alps. It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including its castle and town walls, and its association with the iron and steel industry.
- Murau – Murau is a small town located in the Murtal region and is known for its well-preserved historic architecture, including its castle and town walls. It is also a great place to visit for outdoor activities, such as hiking and skiing.
- Mariazell – Mariazell is a popular pilgrimage destination and is known for its beautiful basilica and stunning natural surroundings. It is also a great place to visit for outdoor activities, such as hiking and skiing.
These are just a few of the many towns and cities worth visiting in Styria. Each one has its own unique charm and attractions that make it a worthwhile destination for travellers.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT STYRIA
- The region is known for its unique blend of Mediterranean and Alpine cultures, which is reflected in its cuisine, architecture, and lifestyle. Styrian cuisine is famous for its pumpkin seed oil, which is used in many traditional dishes.
- The state is home to the city of Graz, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its well-preserved historic center. Graz is also home to several museums and cultural institutions, including the famous Kunsthaus Graz art museum.
- Styria is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Dachstein mountain range and the Styrian wine region. The wine region is one of the most important in Austria, producing high-quality wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.
- The region has a rich history, with several historic castles and buildings dating back to the medieval period. The Castle of Riegersburg, for example, is a well-preserved castle that offers a glimpse into the region’s history.
- Styria is also known for its traditional festivals and events, including the Styrian Harvest Festival and the Schladming Night Race. The Styrian Harvest Festival is a celebration of the region’s agriculture and wine production, while the Schladming Night Race is a popular ski race that takes place under the floodlights at night.
FOOD AND DRINK IN STYRIA
Styria is a region with a rich culinary tradition that reflects its diverse landscape and cultural heritage. The region is famous for its pumpkin seed oil, which is used in many traditional dishes.
One of the most popular dishes in Styria is the Backhendl, which is breaded and fried chicken served with potato salad. Another popular dish is the Geselchtes, which is a smoked pork dish that is typically served with sauerkraut and bread.
Styria is also known for its wide variety of soups, such as the Kürbiscremesuppe, which is a creamy pumpkin soup, and the Grazer Suppe, which is a hearty beef soup with vegetables and dumplings.
The region is also home to several types of cheese, including the famous Styrian Gold, which is a semi-hard cheese with a distinctive flavor. Visitors can also sample the region’s wines, such as the Sauvignon Blanc and Welschriesling, at various wineries and vineyards throughout the region.
Styria is also famous for its desserts, including the Kaiserschmarrn, a sweet shredded pancake with raisins, and the Topfenstrudel, a pastry filled with sweetened cheese.
Overall, Styria’s culinary scene is diverse, flavorful, and influenced by the region’s geography and cultural heritage. Visitors can sample traditional dishes and modern fusion cuisine while enjoying the region’s beautiful scenery and local hospitality.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT STYRIA?
If you are a nature lover and enjoy outdoor activities, the best time to visit Styria is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the temperature is mild, and the region is covered with lush greenery and colorful flowers. You can explore the hiking trails, cycle along the scenic routes, or visit the vineyards and wineries. In addition, during the autumn season, you can attend the traditional wine festivals and sample the local wines.
If you are interested in winter sports, the best time to visit Styria is during the winter months (December to February). The region has several ski resorts, including the famous Schladming-Dachstein, where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.
For those who prefer warm weather, the summer months (June to August) are ideal for visiting Styria. The weather is warm, and the region is in full bloom with colorful flowers and greenery. You can explore the historic cities of Graz and Leoben, visit the beautiful palaces and castles, or attend the popular music festivals, such as the Styriarte Festival and the Murinsel Sounds.
Overall, Styria is a beautiful region with something to offer year-round, and the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences.
STYRIA GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE
The geography of Styria is characterized by the Austrian Alps in the north and east and the Pannonian Plain in the south. The province is also home to several rivers, including the Mur and Enns, and has many forests and natural reserves.
The climate in Styria is moderate with a mix of continental and Mediterranean influences. Summers are warm and sunny with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, while winters are cold and snowy with temperatures averaging between -3°C to 5°C. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, but summers tend to be drier than other seasons. Styria is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Dachstein mountain range and the wine-growing regions in the south.
STYRIA TRAVEL GUIDES
Styria is the perfect destination for some time away from home however make sure you plan ahead to not miss out on the best destinations and receive local knowledge. Shop for a good Styria travel guide on Amazon today and keep it in your bag during your stay.
