Styria

winearchitecture

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The route snakes along secluded streets through the undulating Styrian countryside. This region on the border to Slovenia and Hungary is the warmest area in the country and is often referred to as the "Tuscany of Austria". Alongside homesteads, vines and idyllic alleys of cypress trees the journey leads to the local winegrowers. As aware as they are of tradition, the Styrians are not afraid of modern methods in their craft. New cellar structures blend in perfectly with the vineyard landscape.

Route profile

Country: Austria
Distance: 346 km
Absolute Driving time : 7 h
Recommended tour duration: 2 Days
Best touring season: May - Oct.

Route course

Stegersbach - Schlösserstrasse - Riegersburg - Arnfels - Schlossberg - Kapfenstein - Bildein - Deutsch-Schützen - Bad Blumau - Stegersbach

Route character

Track
exhilarating 2 relaxing
Landscape
wild 2 picturesque
Destinations
intellectual 0 pleasurable

Comments:
All BMW routes are available exclusively to BMW ConnectedDrive contract customers for import to vehicles via BMW Online. Select a BMW route of your choice in your vehicle and discover some of the most beautiful areas of Europe, conveniently guided to your destination by your BMW navigation system.

Destinations

  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Hotels

    The construction of glass and wood perfectly fits into its natural surroundings. Sitting upon what was once an ice-age sand dune, the Balance Resort is situated amidst luxuriant woods. The all-round panorama is spectacular. The light-flooded feel-good haven with its minimalist design is an embodiment of the sign of balance for body, spirit and soul. This modern spa is spread out over 2,000m² with a complex of saunas, indoor and outdoor pools inspired by the Far East.

    Address:
    Balance Resort Stegersbach, Panoramaweg 1, 7551 Stegersbach, Austria
    Contact:
    Manfred Kalcher, hotel director
    Tel.: +43–(0)3326–5515 5 Fax: +43–(0)3326–5515 5
    E-Mail: info@balance-resort.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Open year-round.
    Good to know:
    Guests can use the hotel’s own golf carts (with minibar) to drive straight over to Golfschaukel Lafnitztal golf complex
    Further information:
    www.balance-resort.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Golf courses

    The Golfschaukel Lafnitztal is in a picturesque location in the lush hillsides of the south Burgenland. It is the largest golf complex in Austria. The "Golf Revue Awards" declared the Golfschaukel Austria’s "Golf Club of the Year" for 2006 and 2007. A true golf Mecca set amongst the hills, forests and meadows, it is a real delight for true professionals, beginners and leisure golfers alike. The mild, sunny climate allows you to play all year round. The fairways are attractive and varied.

    Address:
    Golfschaukel Lafnitztal, Neudauberg 18, 8292 Neudauberg, Austria
    Contact:
    Astrid Heschl, head of the secretariat
    Tel.: +43–(0)3326–5500 0 Fax: +43–(0)3326–5500 0
    E-Mail: golf@golfschaukel.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Two 18-hole courses open from March to November; one 9-hole course open all year round. Reception open daily 07:00 - 19:00 hrs - tee off daily from 07:30 - 19:30 hrs.
    Course:
    Two 18-hole courses (par 70 / par 69) and one 9-hole course (par 72).
    Handicap:
    Two 18-hole courses (par 70 / par 69) and one 9-hole course (par 72).
    Greenfee:
    Two 18-hole courses (par 70 / par 69) and one 9-hole course (par 72).
    Golf Pro:
    Simon Tarr
    Good to know:
    "Sunset-Green fee" from May - August after 18:00 hrs: € 30.00.
    Further information:
    www.golfschaukel.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Health & spa

    The Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser had a vision: a life in harmony with nature. The Rogner Bad Blumau is the largest of his inhabitable artworks. Round facades and forms shimmer in all the colours of the rainbow. Grass grows on the roof. The water from the volcanic mineral spring comes up from a depth of 3.000 metres and feeds the indoor and outdoor thermal pools. 110° C at the outlet, the spa water in the pool feels like silk.

    Address:
    Rogner Bad Blumau, 8283 Bad Blumau 100, Austria
    Contact:
    Hannes Czeitschner, director
    Tel.: +43–(0)3383–5100 0 Fax: +43–(0)3383–5100 0
    E-Mail: spa.blumau@rogner.com
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Open year-round; daily from 09:00 - 23:00 hrs.
    Good to know:
    A "volcanic sparkling bath" in the health centre of the pool increases the blood flow, makes the skin as smooth and soft as velvet. Volcanic spa-waters are enhanced with the natural well-spring’s own CO². This creates a milky and finely sparkling pool.
    Further information:
    www.blumau.com
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Hotels

    The Schlosshotel Obermayerhofen is on the Austrian "Castle Road". Once a proud castle on a steep cliff, today it houses a small hotel with the flair of the nobility. In the extravagant restaurant "Zum Goldesel" head chef Gerhard Mandl combines refined regional specialities with Mediterranean influences. The ambience is noble and antique. Stone sculptures, frescoes and exquisite faience ovens decorate the 22 rooms and suites. Guests can enjoy the wonderful view over the lavish Schlosspark.

    Address:
    Schlosshotel Obermayerhofen, Neustift 1, 8272 Sebersdorf, Austria
    Contact:
    Familie Graf Kottulinsky, managers
    Tel.: +43–(0)3333–2503 Fax: +43–(0)3333–2503
    E-Mail: office@obermayerhofen.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Closed in January and February.
    Good to know:
    The picturesque, baroque Arkadenhof exudes the flair of Tuscany. It can be hired for celebrations or events.
    Further information:
    www.obermayerhofen.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Local manufacturers

    Alois Gölles’ distillery and vinegar manufactory is situated amidst green orchards and groves. The Gölles family has been producing its freshly harvested, intensively aromatic fruits for their distillates and vinegars here for four generations. Gölles’ schnapps are gently distilled twice. They mature for years in glass jars and oak barrels; no less than one year with others taking more than 20. No sugar is added. The characteristic sweetness derives solely from the natural fruit essences.

    Address:
    Alois Gölles Destillerie & Essigmanufaktur, Stang 52, 8333 Riegersburg, Austria
    Contact:
    Alois Gölles
    Tel.: +43–(0)3153–7555 Fax: +43–(0)3153–7555
    E-Mail: obst@goelles.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Mon. - Sat. from 08:00 - 17:00 hrs; closed Sundays and public holidays.
    Good to know:
    Special rarity: degustation of a good 20-year old "XA" balsam apple vinegar from the barrel by pipette.
    Further information:
    www.goelles.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Local manufacturers

    According to an ancient recipe of the Counts of Formentini, the hams of the Turmschinkerei are stored in what was once a stone cellar of the Riegersburg. The ham develops its unique flavour after one year of maturing. Its manufacture is an ancient Styrian craft. Some of the recipes date back to the 16th Century. Visitors can sample the products in the "Vinothek Fink". Along with a selection of top-class Styrian wines, the vinotheque offers oil and schnapps with a typical regional character.

    Address:
    Gasthof Turmschinkerei Vinothek Fink, 8333 Riegersburg 26, Austria
    Contact:
    Bettina Wagner, secretary
    Tel.: +43–(0)3153–8216 Fax: +43–(0)3153–8216
    E-Mail: gasthof@finkwirt.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Daily, except Thursday, from 11:30 - 14:00 hrs; Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday also from 18:00 - 21:00 hrs; closed on Thursday.
    Good to know:
    The "Gasthof & Restaurant Finkwirt" is right next door. Along with the in-house Fink products, you can also enjoy further specialities of the region.
    Further information:
    www.finkwirt.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Local manufacturers

    Josef Zotter is living every child’s dream. He has turned his passion for chocolate into his profession. End of 2007, he extended his chocolate manufactory by adding a complete chocolate factory. He now gets the best of the cocoa from the beans by roasting, grinding and conching them himself. The ingredients come from fair trading and organic farms. His chocolate creations are exceptional: dark Alpine milk chocolate with Tofu and Sake. Zotter’s selection counts over 150 sweet creations.

    Address:
    Zotter Schokoladen Manufaktur, Bergl 56A, 8333 Riegersburg, Austria
    Contact:
    Josef Zotter
    Tel.: +43–(0)3152–5554 Fax: +43–(0)3152–5554
    E-Mail: schokolade@zotter.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Shop: Mon. - Sat. from 08:00 - 19:00 hrs; Chocolate Museum: Mon. - Sat. from 08:00 - 17:00 hrs; summer break: 29.06. - 09.08.2009.
    Good to know:
    "Chocolate Theatre": an exciting tasting expedition through the chocolate factory. Register online at www.zotter.at.
    Further information:
    www.zotter.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Museums

    The wine maker’s school was founded in Silberberg in 1895. Today it is school for wine growing and the study of wine as well as a successful vineyard. At the "National Wine Tasting 2008" a total of three Silberberg wines were chosen as winners in their category. On the wine experience path visitors get insights into the world of Styrian wines, as well as its flora and fauna. Along the steep Silberberg vineyards, the path opens up wonderful panoramas over the Styrian wine countryside.

    Address:
    Weinbauschule und Weingut Silberberg, Kogelberg 16, 8430 Leibnitz, Austria
    Contact:
    Anton Gumpl, Direktor
    Tel.: +43–(0)3452–8233 9 Fax: +43–(0)3452–8233 9
    E-Mail: office@silberberg.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Wine sales: Mon. - Fri. from 07:00 - 12:00 and 13:00 - 17:00 hrs; April - June, September and October also open on Saturday from 09:00 - 15:00 hrs.
    Good to know:
    The wine experience footpath is open all year round and freely accessible to visitors outside business hours.
    Further information:
    www.silberberg.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Vineyards

    The Sabathi family has now been producing its complex wines for three generations. Erwin, the son, learned his trade at the Silberberg wine school. He has enriched the long-guarded family traditions with his creativity and openness for the modern. The new cellar was built in 2004. The construction made of glass, wood and concrete is harmoniously integrated into the wine country. In 2005, the visionary construction was awarded the architecture prize "Geramb - a Mark of Thanks for Good Building".

    Address:
    Weingut Erwin Sabathi, Pössnitz 48, 8463 Leutschach, Austria
    Contact:
    Erwin Sabathi, wine grower
    Tel.: +43–(0)3454–265 Fax: +43–(0)3454–265
    E-Mail: weingut@sabathi.com
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Mon. - Sat. from 10:00 - 12:00 and 13:00 - 17:00 hrs; Sundays and public holidays 10:00 - 12:00 hrs; annual close down middle to end of July.
    Good to know:
    Wine tasting is also available in a very fine room on the 1st floor; reservation required.
    Further information:
    www.sabathi.com
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Food & drink

    The "Gasthof Kreuzwirt" is situated in a relaxing quiet location well away from the busy routes of the southern slopes. Gerhard Fuchs has been delighting everyone with his creative regionally inspired delicacies since 2006. Just six weeks after its opening "Kreuzwirt" was awarded three toques by "Gault Millau". The "Guide Michelin" awarded its Styrian cuisine one star. The Tscheppe vineyard, in its sixth family generation of viniculture, is situation right next to the restaurant.

    Address:
    Kreuzwirt am Pössnitzberg, Pössnitz 168 a, 8463 Leutschach, Austria
    Contact:
    Erich und Walter Polz, hosts
    Tel.: +43–(0)3454–205600 Fax: +43–(0)3454–205600
    E-Mail: office@gasthaus-kreuzwirt.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Kreuzwirt: Thursday from 19:00 - 21:00 hrs; Fri. - Mon. from 12:00 - 14:00 and 19:00 - 21:00 hrs; closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Vineyard: Mon. - Sat. from 10:00 - 18:00 hrs; March - November Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 - 17:00 hrs.
    Good to know:
    The e-magazine "180° South" has great ideas and tips on fine foods.
    Further information:
    www.gasthaus-kreuzwirt.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Vineyards

    Fritz, Wilma and Katharina cultivate their timelessly elegant wines on 21 hectares of best slopes in Steinbach, Eckberg and Flamberg. The grapes come exclusively from their own vineyards. Harvesting is performed in late season. After being precisely picked by hand the grapes are carefully processed in the traditional way. The family presented its new wine cellar in Berg at the start of 2001. In 2002 the centuries-old sales room under the historical vaults was completely restored.

    Address:
    Weingut Lackner–Tinnacher, Steinbach 12, 8462 Gamlitz, Austria
    Contact:
    Fritz und Wilma Tinnacher, wine grower
    Tel.: +43–(0)3453–2142 Fax: +43–(0)3453–2142
    E-Mail: weingut@tinnacher.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Tasting and shop Mon. - Sat. from 10:00 - 12:00 and 14:00 - 18:00 hrs.
    Good to know:
    The Republic of Austria awarded the new wine cellar the prize for "Exemplary Building Design" in 2001.
    Further information:
    www.tinnacher.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Vineyards

    He takes his inspiration from nature. Since 1983, Manfred Sonnenberg has been inviting his guests to allow free rein to their artistic bent. He offers creative courses his fresco-painted winter house in the middle of the vineyard. Pottery making, plasticising, painting and carving are done in an almost meditative atmosphere. The view over the Slovenian valleys is breathtaking. And for those drawn to pottery, canvas, stone and paint, Manfred Sonnenberg offers two artists apartments.

    Address:
    Kreativwerkstätte Sonnenberg, Wielitsch 34, 8461 Berghausen, Austria
    Contact:
    Manfred Sonnenberg, artist
    Tel.: +43–(0)3453–5219 Fax: +43–(0)3453–5219
    E-Mail: manfred@msonnenberg.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Winter break from January to March.
    Good to know:
    Right next to the border to Slovenia, the artist Manfred Sonnenberg is always coming with up new bi-national projects.
    Further information:
    www.msonnenberg.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Hotels

    The wish to enjoy the idyll of the vineyard until late in the evening became true: the old stone house was integrated into the straight lines of a new building built of glass, wood and stone. Ten modern rooms with a view over the vineyard and the evening camp fires were built. In his restaurant head chef Bernd Pascher invites you to enjoy local, Mediterranean-influenced specialities. Hobby chefs and those wanting to cook something for their loved ones can rent the kitchen on Monday and Sunday.

    Address:
    Hotel Hochgrassnitzberg, Grassnitzberg 67, 8471 Spielfeld, Austria
    Contact:
    Bettina Prassl und Bernd Pascher, hotel managers
    Tel.: +43–(0)3453–20102 Fax: +43–(0)3453–20102
    E-Mail: hochgrassnitzberg@anderlage.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Open March - December.
    Good to know:
    When you are booking a room, make sure you reserve one in the right wing with a view of the wine slopes.
    Further information:
    www.anderlage.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Vineyards

    The vineyard lies amidst the Styrian volcanic country. Once it was an orchard with one hectare of cultivable land, then Fredi and Maria Ploder discovered their passion for wine. Now the vineyard encompasses 15 hectares and ranks as one of the best in the region. 90% of their production consists of white wines. The wines come in two ranges: "classic" - fresh and aromatic, and "selection" - long-matured and full-bodied. There are also varied cultural events to enhance life on the vineyard.

    Address:
    Weingut Ploder-Rosenberg, 8093 St. Peter am Ottersbach / 86, Austria
    Contact:
    Fredi und Maria Ploder, wine grower
    Tel.: +43–(0)3477–3234 Fax: +43–(0)3477–3234
    E-Mail: office@ploder-rosenberg.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Monday and Thursday to Friday from 09:00 - 12:00 and 13:00 - 18:00 hrs or by appointment.
    Good to know:
    The garden is decorated with bizarre works of art made from metal.
    Further information:
    www.ploder-rosenberg.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Vineyards

    This vineyard cellar is built deep into the slope. Here the Neumeister wines are stored in steel tanks, enormous barrels and exquisite barriques. The wines are among the best in the country. The "Wine Appreciation Seminar" introduces you to the secrets of their production. They playfully impart sensual enjoyment, knowledge of everything to do with wine and the harmony between food and wine. Guests can while away the evening beneath the elegantly illuminated cellar vaults of the "Saziani".

    Address:
    Weingut Neumeister, 8345 Straden 42, Austria
    Contact:
    Albert Neumeister, wine grower
    Tel.: +43–(0)3473–8308 Fax: +43–(0)3473–8308
    E-Mail: weingut@neumeister.cc
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Mon. - Sat. from 11:00 - 18:00 hrs.
    Good to know:
    The "Saziani Restaurant" delights its guests with surprisingly creative meals. This culinary journey is made perfect with the suitable wine accompaniment suggested by the sommelier. "Gault Millau" awarded the "Saziani" two toques.
    Further information:
    www.neumeister.cc
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Hotels

    The Winkler-Hermaden family has owned the Schloss Kapfenstein hotel, restaurant and vineyard since 1898. Named the "Most Romantic Hotel" in Austria in an American tourist guide in 2008, the 15 rooms unite a nostalgic ambience with the traditional countryside idyll. Surrounded by a blossoming castle garden, the view over the wine landscape is entrancing. The castle’s own restaurant offers a "Dinner in the Castle". This 4 to 6 course meal will delight you with the pleasures of the season.

    Address:
    Schloss Kapfenstein, 8353 Kapfenstein 105, Austria
    Contact:
    Georg und Margot Winkler-Hermaden, hosts
    Tel.: +43–(0)3157–2322 Fax: +43–(0)3157–2322
    E-Mail: hotel@schloss-kapfenstein.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Open daily from March - mid-December.
    Good to know:
    The Winkler-Hermaden vineyard lies right at the foot of the castle. Here, under the 350-year old cellar vaults, the Styrian red wine is stored in small oak barrels.
    Further information:
    www.schloss-kapfenstein.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Museums

    The "Freilichtmuseum Ensemble Gerersdorf" is the largest open-air museum in the region of Burgenland. A farming village idyll with straw-thatched buildings of wood, clay and straw. In the 32 historical buildings all sorts of farming machinery and devices are on show. The little "Village in the Village" gives visitors a comprehensive insight into the culture of the 18th and 19th centuries countryside life. The collection is further enhanced by various exhibitions by contemporary artists.

    Address:
    Freilichtmuseum Ensemble Gerersdorf, 7542 Gerersdorf 66, Austria
    Contact:
    Gerhard Kisser, museum founder
    Tel.: +43–(0)3328–322 55 Fax: +43–(0)3328–322 55
    E-Mail: freilichtmuseum.gerersdorf@aon.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Open daily from April - October; Mon. - Fri. from 09:00 - 17:00 hrs; Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 - 18:00 hrs.
    Good to know:
    Admission charges: Adults € 4.50 / children € 2.00. There are regular courses: artistic metalwork, felt work, bread baking, hand weaving or spinning; appointments upon arrangement.
    Further information:
    www.freilichtmuseum-gerersdorf.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Museums

    Modern architecture meets old wine traditions. The best wines from the local wine growers are stored here. Visitors to the Bildein Wine Archive will find no ordinary vinotheque. Framed with glass, modern rooms house the treasures of the regional wine growers. While you taste them, the history of the wines from South Burgenland will be told; rarities can be tasted and purchased. The Archive won the Burgenland country’s "Recognition Award" for its visionary architecture.

    Address:
    Weinarchiv Bildein, Florianigasse 1, 7521 Bildein, Austria
    Contact:
    Hans Stangl, chairman
    Tel.: +43–(0)664–792 02 89
    E-Mail: kvgg@bildein.bgld.gv.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Easter to November. Thursday and Friday from 16:00 - 20:00 hrs; Saturday, Sunday and on public holidays from 13:00 - 20:00 hrs and by appointment.
    Good to know:
    Wonder at the victors! All the victorious regional wines from the last few years are on exhibit at the museum.
    Further information:
    www.bildein.at
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Vineyards

    Felix Körper, senior of the vineyard, is one of the pioneers of wine growing in Burgenland. The vineyard has been in his family since 1816. His wines are renowned for their long storage characteristics; and the relationship between price and quality is a constant source of wonder for wine tasters. Guided tours of the cellars and wine tasting in the firm are always on offer with prior reservation. It is enchanting to take a tour with the cellar master through the vineyard gardens.

    Address:
    Weingut Schützenhof, Weinberg 159, 7474 Deutsch Schützen, Austria
    Contact:
    Faulhammer-Körper family
    Tel.: +43–(0)3365–2203 Fax: +43–(0)3365–2203
    E-Mail: schuetzenhof@utanet.at
    Parking:
    Parking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Open year-round; daily from 08:00 - 18:00 hrs.
    Good to know:
    A special "drop": "Senior" wine has been produced since 1993 using 55-year old vines in honour of the senior manager of the vineyard.
    Further information:
    www.schuetzenhof.cc
  • Countries: Austria
    Category: Vineyards

    On a clear day from the Vinum Ferreum vineyard you can see as far as Lake Balaton in Hungary. The landscape is wonderful - the wine from this special vineyard, complex. On the 17 hectares of vineyards, Walter Dulmovits and Johann Pfeffer cultivate primarily red wine of the Blaufränkisch, Zweigelt and Syrah sorts. With the white wines, Welschriesling and Weißburgunder are the main varieties. The excellent quality is attested to by the constant stream of awards and critical acclaim.

    Address:
    Weingut Vinum Ferreum, Obere Kellergasse 35, 7474 Eisenberg, Austria
    Contact:
    Walter Dulmovits, director
    Tel.: +43–(0)3365–2009 0 Fax: +43–(0)3365–2009 0
    E-Mail: weingut@vinum-ferreum.at
    Parking:
    arking available right next to the building.
    Opening hours:
    Mon. - Sat. from 11:00 - 17:00 hrs and by appointment.
    Good to know:
    Victorious wine in the "Blaufränkisch Trophy 2008" in the "reserve wine" category: the Blaufränkisch Saybritz 2006.
    Further information:
    www.vinum-ferreum.at