ENGLISH
The heart of M端hlviertel.
Contents 02 Lime meets Mühlviertel granite
16 Learning from and with horses
36 Lasberg
04 Everything started in the Middle Ages
18 Golfing in the heart of Mühlviertel
38 Leopoldschlag
06 Mühlviertel – the country of beer
20 Come to appreciate winter
40 Neumarkt
08 On the search for traces of our
22 Shared experiences connect together
42 Pregarten
24 Freistadt
44 Rainbach
26 Grünbach
46 Sandl
28 Gutau
48 St. Oswald
12 Crystal-clear water purified by stones
30 Hagenberg
50 Tragwein
14 Cycling paradise Mühlviertel-South
32 Hirschbach
52 Waldburg
34 Kefermarkt
54 Windhaag
ancestors 10 Enjoy hiking in the heart of Mühlviertel
Bohemia
Leopoldschlag Windhaag
Rainbach
Grünbach Freistadt St. Oswald
Waldburg Warm. Genuine. Loveable. The Mühlviertler Kernland is considered one of the most beautiful and diverse excursion destinations in Mühlviertel. We invite you on a journey of discovery into the heart of Mühlviertel! The Mühlviertler Kernland, an enchanting holiday region to the north of the provincial capital Linz – an ancient area, unhewn, like the local granite, of discreet beauty and with unadulterated life in the market towns and villages. Nevertheless, also cultural land to a large degree, which can be hardly be found anywhere else. If you spend a few days in the Mühlviertler Kernland, you will come to appreciate the real things in life.
Hirschbach
Lasberg Kefermarkt
Neumarkt Hagenberg Pregarten
Gutau Tragwein
Sandl
Lime meets Mühlviertel granite
by village structures with an intact environment. Therefore it is mainly the countryside, which attracts our guests. Together with the cordiality and sociability of Mühlviertler people, your visit will be an unforgettable
The result is called “Stoabloß” and can be frequently found in farmhouses in Mühlviertel. This special kind of facade design with a spot-like white coat of paint is unique in Mühlviertel and has a long tradition.
experience.
The inn – a meeting place Guests and local people still sit together in our inns. They discuss, make music, dance and laugh together. It is a place of social gathering – age or social status are irrelevant. That is good for the soul! The landlady or landlord are usually in the kitchen themselves. Mainly traditional dish-
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es with regional ingredients are prepared. n former centuries houses built with
which today are typical for the Mühlviertler
The landlords often take time to chat with
Mühlviertler granite were limewashed.
landscape. Crossing Mühlviertel you will
the guests. Regular folk music gatherings
Years of weathering washed the paint away
repeatedly discover such “Steinbloß” hous-
provide entertainment.
from many places (the stone became pale)
es hidden behind gentle hills. The luscious,
Information is available from the tourist
and often it was not replaced for financial
plentiful green of the meadows and woods
office Mühlviertler Kernland. The menus
reasons. This is how the Stoabloß (“pale
complement the grey/white of the houses
mainly offer traditional dishes with regional
stone“) houses and walls developed,
perfectly. The landscape is characterized
ingredients.
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Cider – the typical Upper Austrian sharp drink !
cider (non alcoholic) is drunken as a par-
produced in the display fruit pressing
Not only beer but also cider is a popular
ticular speciality. Orchard meadows, where
Pankrazhofer in Tragwein. The cider
drink. It is a must when having supper
cider fruit grows, delight the hiker even in
sommelier will be pleased to advise you
at a cider tavern. Cider is fermented
spring with their blossoming splendour.
which to taste.
In autumn the freshly pressed juice, sweet
apple or pear juice and the Upper Aus-
Later in autumn you can smell the ma-
trian‘s national drink, so people are
ture fruits from afar. The owners of the
given the honourable designation “Most-
cider museum Trosselsdorf (community
schädel”. Cider is given the courtesy title
of Neumarkt) proudly show their family
„Landessäure“ (national sharp drink) in Upper Austria.
Cider and juices of highest quality are
exhibits on the topic of cider production and invite you to have a good glass.
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Everything started in the Middle Ages Gothic facades with elaborate bow-fronts and inner courtyards remind us of the former prosperity of the city. This had to be protected, as you can see from the well preserved fortification system with their fortified towers.
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Some of these courtyards are accessible for our guests. Lovingly arranged floral decorations lend a Mediterranean flair.
Mighty underworld of Freistadt Visitors are amazed by the mighty, barrelvaulted cellar rooms and connection tunnels. Cellars had an important function
City of towers
met within a one mile radius around Frei-
as warehouses or cooling cellars and they
From its foundation in the 13th century up to
stadt, contributed to the citizen’s prosperity.
were used to brew up to the middle of the
the 17 century, Freistadt was a border city
Especially valuable salt was transported via
18th century. In laborious work they were
to the hostile north and therefore of great
the ancient trading route between Danube
hewn out (partially often out of the solid
strategic significance for its rulers. Vested
and Vltava. The city’s oldest building, the so
rock).
with numerous trade privileges, Freistadt
called “Salzhof”, where salt was temporarily
A few years ago, the cultural initiative FLIP reactivated and redeveloped
th
had its golden age in this period. Due to
stored during centuries, reminds us of this.
the Staple Right, all merchants passing
Nowadays the historic building is dedicated
some of the cellars in Freistadt. They
Freistadt on their way to Bohemia had to
to culture.
were professionally surveyed and
offer their merchandise for a fixed price in
adapted for cultural purposes (e.g.
the city.
Backyards – oases of silence
Heri-tage Day, guided tours) and
This made trade and commerce flourish.
Behind the facades of the old town, a total
are accessible as an important part
The Mile Law, which said that only the
of 27 courtyards with Gothic, Renaissance
of Freistadt’s architectural history
citizens were allowed to sell beer, wine and
and baroque arcades are hidden.
(see group offers page 22).
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Carriage ride through the old town
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View of the city square
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Enchanting arcades
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A tour through Freistadt’s “underworld”
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Old city smithy
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Gothic moulded blind
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“Bierstacheln” in the city smithy
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Freistadt’s Freyung
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Freistadt’s city smithy was still in operation a few decades ago. A spring hammer dating
The former “Valley of Hammers” – now a recreational area
back to 1928 and a forge, both still functioning, as well as an anvil and different tools lend the room a special character. Today the smithy can be rented for parties or cultural events.
Thurytal presents itself as an idyllic landscape close to the city. In former times the rushing of numerous water wheels, which activated the hammer mills, resounded throughout the “Valley of Hammers”. Agricultural and craft tools, especially sickles and scythes packed into heavy transport barrels, were high-demand products far beyond the borders. The hiking path “Gewerbe am Fluss” leads you through the Thurytal past a revitalised smithy into the Czech Republic. It is not surprising that the mighty granite blocks on the way provided subject matter for legends and fairy tales. Such as in the legend about the devil who tried to block the river with giant boulders. The devil’s rock on the hiking path will tell you, if he succeeded. It is protected by the devil himself. The metres high figure sits enthroned on the rock and looks down onto the hikers. Hiking path “Gewerbe am Fluss” from Pregarten to Kaplice (length 70 km)
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Mühlviertel – the country of beer No wonder – Mühlviertel is the largest hop growing area in Austria. The second raw material, water comes from especially pure spring water out of Mühlviertel Granite.
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quite rough climate with a high temperature difference between day and night is ideal for hops of highest quality.
100% natural, 100% Austria – today’s Braucommune The brewery Braucommune in the centre of Freistadt is the leading industry of the beer district Mühlviertel. The range of products includes many specialities, from Bio Zwickl to Junghopfenpils – a special beer for the Provincial Exhibition 2013. 100% of the raw materials come from Austria – from controlled natural cultivation. Fresh from the spring, the water flows out of the primary rocks directly into the brewing tanks. For brewing beer, the saying “the better the water, the better the beer” is particularly true. The soul of Freistädter beers, however, are the hops from Mühlviertel. Enjoy our Freistädter beers to feel and experience the typical aroma of hops from Mühlviertel. Visit the recently opened brewery restaurant “BRAUHAUS” to enjoy typical Austrian specialities with best Freistädter beers, of course, in a fantastic ambiance. A separate playroom and an outdoor playground ensure that our younger guests won’t be bored. Art & culture are also most important in Freistadt’s Braucommune. With a glass relief wall designed by Prof. Arik Brauer in the brewing house and the Brauer fountain in the brewery yard, we host unique works of art.
Europe’s only brewing community since 1770 Construction work for a brewery outside the city walls were started in 1777. The citizens, who were entitled to brew and who had brewed beer in the cellars of their 149 town houses up to then, united in the association “Braucommune in Freistadt” to safeguard their interest.
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The rights and duties of Freistadt’s former “brewing communists” have remained unaffected until now and are still valid. The “Commune” is currently still registered in the Company Registry/commercial register in the legal form of a company, being the last of its kind in Europe. www.freistaedter-bier.at 1
With castle view The castle brewery Schlossbrauerei Weinberg is situated in the historical vaulted stables of the castle. No wonder that some people stay to have a glass of home-brewed beer in the cosy restaurant with its mighty granite columns and copper beer vessels. Maybe accompanied by some typical cheese with grain bread? Talks about beer are offered to groups. It is also the starting point of the 3 km long educational beer trail. www.schlossbrauerei.at
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Let’s go to see the hops In summer you can see the tall hop plantations alongside the road to the beer restaurant Eder Bräu from afar. Before they are harvested in September, hops provide cool shadow on hot summer days for the guests on their walk through the plantations. From a large window in the lovingly decorated Hopfenstub’n you can look directly into the home-brewery. Taste the broad range of home-made beer and do not miss trying the kitchen’s specialities like the “beer brewer’s platter” or the “hop plucker’s supper”. www.ederbraeu.at
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Restaurant with brewing vat Schlossbrauerei Weinberg
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Finest ingredients from Mühlviertel
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Hop plantation Eder Bräu
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Brauhaus Freistadt
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Schlossbrauerei Weinberg
Sustainable bat protection 400 “greater mouse-ears” live in the attic of Freistadt’s brewery: The awards “Bats welcome” from the coordination office for bat protection and research in Austria (KFFÖ) were handed over in the course of the recently started campaign. “We want to point out the threat for bats, which take up quarters on and in the buildings,” Guido Reiter, the director of the KFFÖ said. “We reward house and apartment owners with a certificate and a badge, when bats are made welcome in their buildings,” Simone Pysarczuk, country coordinator of KFFÖ added. Among others in Upper Austria, the brewery Freistädter Bier and the parishes of Gallneukirchen and Waldhausen have received the badges. The purpose of the KFFÖ campaign “Bats welcome” is to promote the protection of bats throughout the whole country. The award should protect existing bat roosts in the long term and create new ones. For several decades about 400 greater mouse-eared bats have been living in the attic of the brewery Freistädter Bier. The little mammals return every year in spring to bear their young and bring them up. In autumn the animals move away to look for an adequate winter habitat. “We in our brewery are proud to accommodate Upper Austria’s largest known bat colony,” the authorised signatory Ewald Pöschko said. “Moreover the largest species, the greater mouse-eared bat, finds ideal conditions in the giant attic of our brewery.”
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Greater mouse-eared bat nursery roost colony
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Flaps, die Flunkerfledermaus (the fibbing bat) An almost absolutely true bat story from Freistadt – available as book or CD in the tourist office!
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On the search for traces of our ancestors The Mühlviertler Gothic and Museum route leads you into the history of smiths and potters, textile printing and the horse-drawn railway, the painting of rustic furniture or verre églomisé pictures.
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wooden back frames distributed the valuable pictures from Sandl to the whole Danube Monarchy during the 19th century. The tradition of verre églomisé painting in Sandl has been included in the list of intangible national cultural heritage. phone +43 7944 / 82 55 www.hinterglasmuseum-sandl.at
umerous gothic monuments, such as
from the Middle Ages until now. Historical
Upper Austrian Castle Museum Reichenstein
the world-famous winged altars of
artefacts and special exhibitions are not
The museum in the castle complex of
Kefermarkt, Waldburg and St. Michael ob
only designed to document former life, but
Reichenstein offers interesting insights
Rauchenödt are evidence of the prosperity
also to find answers to current issues.
into the topics “Castles and sovereignty”,
and artistic skills of the former local inhabit-
phone +43 79 42 / 722 74
people and their living environment in
ants. Look and be amazed!
www.museum-freistadt.at
the castle as well as the architectural and
Mühlviertler Schlossmuseum Freistadt
Verre églomisé museum Sandl
Furthermore the castle of Reichenstein
The Mühlviertler Schlossmuseum (castle
The characteristics of verre églomisé
of education for children and young
museum) shows a broad range of collec-
painting is to paint from the front to the
people.
tions and exhibitions – from the city history
background, which is contrary of painting
phone +43 650 / 314 69 46
via folklore through to everyday culture,
on canvas. So called pedlars carrying
www.burg-reichenstein.at
constructional aspect of castles.
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functions as an important regional place
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Winged altar of Kefermarkt
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Horse-drawn railway Rainbach
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Dyer museum Gutau
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Detail winged altar Waldburg
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Hafnerhaus (pottery) Leopoldschlag
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Verre églomisé museum Sandl
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Mühlviertler Waldhaus Windhaag
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Herb exhibition Hirschbach
www.museumsstrasse.at 7
Horse-drawn railway Rainbach
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is presented in a former mill in typical
Cider museum
“Stoabloß” style. In the fragrant herb barn
The cider tavern and the inn Wirt z’Trossels-
During a ride on the originally reconstructed
you will learn valuable facts about mystics
dorf present the equipment of historic cider
horse carriage you can feel, how stress-free
and application of herbs then and now.
production and a film on cider making from
and slow travelling must have been in former
phone +43 7948 / 541
the year 1966 in an old press house in tradi-
times.
www.museum-hirschbach.at
tional “stoabloß” style. phone: +43 7941 / 8217
phone +43 7949 / 68 00 www.pferdeeisenbahn.at
Mühlviertler Waldhaus (forest museum) Windhaag
www.neumarkt-muehlkreis.ooe.gv.at
Dyer museum Gutau
The museum Mühlviertler Waldhaus unveils
Museum of Pregarten
The dyer’s house shows the crafts of textile
the secrets of forests and shows interesting
The newly designed Museum of Pregar-
dying with the valuable blue dye indigo and
details on the topic of forests and their forms.
the elaborate further processing of M ühl-
phone: +43 7943/ 61 11-14
viertler linen. Nowadays blue-dye printing
www.muehlviertler-waldhaus.at
is experiencing a renaissance. Blueprint
ten presents a permanent exhibition of “Products from the first Upper Austrian earthenware factory in Pregarten” and the regional history as well as crafts. Bronze
phone +43 676 / 685 49 83
Hafnerhaus (pottery) Leopoldschlag
www.faerbermuseum.at
The museum is situated in the former vaulted
photo exhibition entitled “From Linz to
furnace. Trace the roots of pottery in this
Krumlov – from the Danube to the Vltava”
workshop with shopping possibility!
Age finds of Dachstein firs from Unterweitersdorf have been recently included. A
Rustic-style furniture museum with herb exhibition Hirschbach
impressing furnace, where potters verifiably
is also shown within the frame of the Provin-
produced earthenware from the 18th century.
cial Exhibition 2013.
phone +43 7949 / 82 55-15,
phone: +43 664/4159637
Sumptuously painted rustic-style furniture
www.hafnerhaus.at
www.heimatmuseumpregarten.at
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Enjoy hiking in the heart of Mühlviertel It’s a pure pleasure to hike through the Mühlviertler Kernland region. Experience that the hikes are as gentle as the rolling landscape.
fine restaurants – find all of this along the hiking paths. The innkeepers in Mühlviertel are often praised for their hospitality. They gladly explain the route or, if necessary, even give exhausted hikers a ride.
365 km of hiking paths Our hiking path network has a total length of 365 km and offers many themed hiking trails, as, for example, the newly designed Bird Trail in Gutau. The XL bird’s nest, where
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kids can climb in, makes hiking even more limb the small mountains which
art invites to make a cultural stopover. The
fun. And lovers of herbs appreciate the
Planet Hiking Path leading from Freistadt
fragrance of the mountain herbs along the
to Sandl (16 km) impressively presents our
Herbal Hiking Path.
vides such a variety of hiking possibilities.
planetary system. Hike from the sun to Pluto
For people who seek peace, we recom-
Untouched river valleys lined with heavy
or the other way round, and enjoy magnifi-
mend the Chakra Hiking Path in Rainbach
granite blocks alternate with shady forests.
cent views of the Alpine foothills.
with meditation areas providing space to
offer views over a diverse range of
landscapes. Hardly any other region pro-
relax.
Lush meadows lead along lovingly tended the “Stoabloß style”.
No hiking tour without stops for delicious breaks !
The medieval city of Freistadt with its
Ranging from taverns typical for the region,
hiking tours with herb experts or nature hik-
numerous museums and Gothic pieces of
such as the cider taverns “Mostheurige”, to
ing tours with nature and landscape guides.
farms with fronts made of granite blocks in
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We will be pleased to organize guided herb
Castles and Palaces Hiking Path
Hiking on “old traces – new ways”
Follow old traces from the Vltava to the Danube River: Discover ancient cultures and the gentle rolling landscape of Mühlviertel and South Bohemia on shank’s pony. Once joined, then divided by the Iron Curtain, and now rejoined, this region today is characterized by nature and culture. Hike the 130 km long path from the Czech town of Velečín to the Upper Austrian Grein on the Danube far away from mass tourism, passing by 15 castles and palaces, enjoying the characteristic beautiful landscape full of sights on a 7- or 8-day tour. Just take the train in Linz
Hike on the former trading route alongside the horse-drawn railway, according to the topic of the Upper Austrian Provincial Exhibition 2013 “Old Traces – New Ways”. The historic path leads past romantic crossing-keeper’s cottages, hidden viaducts and the mighty railway station Kerschbaum with nostalgic adventure horse-drawn railway. The part through the nature reserve Gusental offers pure recreation.
or Freistadt to Velečín to start the tour: from Kaplice to Freistadt, via Lasberg and Gutau to Schönau i. M. and Pierbach, going on to St. Thomas am Blasenstein, Bad Kreuzen, Clam and to Grein on the
Path length: 72 km, from Linz/Magdalena to Bujanov/CZ Request hiking map!
Danube, from where it is possible to return to Linz by ship or train.
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Crystal-clear water purified by stones There are plenty of stones in Mühlviertel – this also ensures water of the highest quality. The water of the largely untouched rivers Maltsch, Feldaist, Waldaist and Kleine Gusen can tell us many stories even without words.
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uman beings have always gained vital energy from water. Thus many remains of sawmills, mills and forges can be found along rivers in the Mühlviertler Kernland. Leather manufacturers and tanners allowed the trade along the river to flourish. Numerous castles and palaces guarded the valuable commodity water. The ruins can be visited to the present day. Hiking paths through romantic river valleys, which are clearly marked by signposts, turn river hiking into a great experience for the whole family. The paths along the rivers are mostly on flat terrain. Many huge rock formations invite hikers to take a short break. While the children can test their climbing abilities, parents and grandparents can enjoy Kneipp treatments in the shallow riverbed.
Not only human beings have discovered this biosphere – the rivers with their natural course are also home to freshwater pearl mussels, otters and threatened species of butterflies and dragonflies. With luck, it is even possible to see the rare corncrake or a black woodpecker.
Explore the borders along the “European Green Belt” Move along the river Maltsch (Malše) on the Czech side of the border with its unspoiled countryside to “no-man’s-land”, which for many years used to be an area of blocked access. Guided tours provide information about flora and fauna as well as ancient village structures. Green Belt Information Centre Leopoldschlag: Phone: +43 7949 / 205 76 +43 664 / 514 35 48, E-mail: nat.2000infozentrum@gmx.at www.naturschutzbund-ooe.at European nature reserve Waldaist-Naarn Phone: +43 7236 / 314 00-0 E-mail: office@burg-reichenstein.at www.faszination-natur.at Enjoy swimming in natural swimming ponds in the municipalities Rainbach, Leopoldschlag, Grünbach, Sandl, Tragwein.
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Let yourself be seduced by nature The award-winning nature educational project entices into protected Upper Austrian and Mühlviertel landscapes – an intriguing and enjoyable way of imparting knowledge. Hiking without borders along the “European Green Belt” From Maltsch to no-man’s-land. The expedition goes through the European nature reserve Maltsch (Malše) and to no-man’s-land on the Czech side of the border with its unspoiled countryside, which used to be an area of blocked access for many decades. Find traces of ancient village structures, pilgrimage routes and handicraft along the water. Explore the diverse fauna in the Maltsch riverbed. Hiking with migratory sheep Experience nature protection on a tour with sheep, shepherd and border collies! Cross meadows, forests, roads and paths to the next pasture with a flock of sheep. Exercises with the flock and the border collies prepare you for your role. Get plenty of useful information about the only Upper Austrian migratory sheep-farming, and its impact on flora and fauna.
Crossing the wild Feldaisttal valley into medieval times with the troubadour Dietmar von Aist Embark on a journey back into medieval times when Mühlviertel was covered completely by dense forests. Inspired by the wild, romantic Feldaisttal valley, the troubadour Dietmar von Aist travels from castle to castle with his songs. Join him on his hike through the countryside and listen to his exciting stories about people, animals and plants in medieval times.
Information and bookings: www.naturschauspiel.at
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Cycling paradise MühlviertelSouth Bohemia The diverse, hilly country of Mühlviertel has been especially popular with cyclists and mountain bikers seeking a sports challenge.
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Stop to visit castles or small craft museums. On your cycling tour discover the sites, steeped in history, of the Provincial Exhibition Freistadt – Bad Leonfelden, Česky Krumlov and Vyšši Brod along old traces and new ways (Provincial Exhibition cycling route). The cycling country Mühlviertel-South Bohemia is signposted throughout and makes the whole Mühlviertel from the Danube to the Czech border and farther beyond to the Vlatava accessible for the
hanks to an extensive e-bike rental
Cycle from Pregarten to Freistadt, have
first time.
and recharge system, Mühlviertler
dinner in the old town and decide sponta-
So, “Let’s pedal!”
Kernland has now become interesting for
neously to stay overnight in a hotel instead
pleasure cyclists, too. Conquer the ascents
of finishing the tour? Or better go back by
E-bike rental points in Mühlviertler Kernland
easily with the help of the electric motor
train? No problem. The bikes are automat-
and be overwhelmed by the views you are
ically recharged at the stations and have a
Freistadt
Gutau
suddenly offered. Moreover you can enjoy
range of 70 to 80 kilometres.
Hagenberg
Pregarten (Bruckmühle)
exhilarating descents. This makes cycling a
18 perfectly signposted pleasure tours and
Windhaag
Pregarten (Eder Bräu)
completely new experience for the whole
8 racing cycle tours lead you through all
family. A particular advantage of our e-bikes:
municipalities, alongside rivers and over hill
You can decide spontaneously, when and
tops, through woods and farming villages or
where you want to give back your bike.
Freistadt’s old town.
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Daily rate: € 10.–
Road cycling in Mühlviertler Kernland Racing cyle routes for everyone: If you love racing bikes, you will also love Mühlviertler Kernland. Here you will find the best conditions and most diverse racing cycle routes. All routes start in Freistadt. Perfect road conditions lead you through the charming landscape and to typical villages. The altitude of Mühlviertler Kernland is also ideal for training for endurance sports. There are 8 routes of different difficulty levels and lengths.
Request a cycling map ! Request brand new cycling maps at the tourist office Mühlviertler Kernland.
1 overview map Mühlviertel-South Bohemia 4 detail maps Mühlviertel
Book your cycling trip of several days’ duration in Mühlviertler Kernland with OÖ Touristik www.touristik.at phone +43 732 / 727 72 22 or Donau Touristik / Sternradreisen www.donaureisen.at phone +43 732 / 20 80.
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Learning from and with horses Old and young people shall discover and develop their individual access to horses in Mühlviertler Kernland. This is what the riding centres in the heart of Mühlviertel stand for by guaranteeing this expectation through qualified training and cordiality.
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two years’ qualification process. Every riding guest will find his or her personal offer within these pillars.
Training and education for man and horse Riding lessons for every level of experience up to tournament preparation Courses and training for people and horses in all categories and styles
verybody setting out on a horse is on the path to self-realisation. In the
safety and cordiality. This results in a riding
Training on horse keeping & care
region, where people and horses both feel
Adventure horse and nature
Academy of Riding Experience Mühlviert-
well and can go part of their way togeth-
ler Kernland, qualified trainers, riding
er – accompanied, advised and assisted.
Riding weeks for children and young
instructors, teachers and horse whisperers
Everybody is welcome in the Academy of
people
assist you individually. Learning from and
Riding Experience, who wants to relax and
Horse-back trekking and pleasure riding
with horses in so many ways becomes a
experience an adventure with their own
on more than 450 signposted paths in
passion for guests and local people in this
horse or a rental horse, who wants to un-
the gentle rolling landscape – just half an
wonderful, gentle rolling landscape in the
dertake further training or develop further
hour from Linz
heart of Mühlviertel. The foundations of this
emotionally, physically and mentally by
organised (adventure) holiday with horses
are pretty simple: Three quarters quality of
encountering a horse.
accommodation in welcoming establish-
life for horse and man, mixed with atten-
The riding centres in Mühlviertler Kernland
ments of the region with best board for
tiveness, down-to-earth mentality, quality,
have specialised in four pillars during a
horse & rider
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Learning from and with horses riding educational assistance for children
Riding holiday for people with disabilities in Mühlviertler Kernland
from the age of four therapeutic assistance with horses for people with mental, psychological or physical disabilities coaching, training and team development with horses as co-trainers kinesiology, physiotherapy, couple therapy with horses etc.
Leisure and comfort Horse-drawn carriage rides Tournaments Fairs & exhibitions Events with horses such as the horse pilgrimage “Georgiritt” The special thing in a good relationship
Encountering horses is a tremendous enrichment for people with mental, psychological or physical disabilities. Different healing processes are accompanied and supported by building a relationship to the horse. Getting in contact and building confidence happen in different ways: Without mounting by touching, observing, cleaning and guiding the horse and by playing with it. On horseback in guided walking rides, carried and moved, invited to imaginary journeys and meditation. Also people with severe mental and/or multiple disabilities, who are not able to sit on the horse, can experience horses with all their senses. They can establish self-worth and self-confidence by encountering horses and discover their own potentials for changes and power. We will be pleased to assist individual persons as well as residential groups with mentally, socially or physically disabled people to organise riding days or weeks in one of the centres in Mühlviertler Kernland. Professionally trained therapists with horses are available for riding and horse lessons – to be booked individually as needed.
between man and horse is, as man, to get involved, with the horse, being a fantastic creature and to be willing never to stop learning from and with horses!
Reit-Erlebnis-Akademie (Academy of Riding Experience) Mühlviertler Kernland 4240 Freistadt, Waaggasse 6, Phone: +43 7942 / 75 700 E-mail: office@reit-erlebnis-akademie.at, www.reit-erlebnis-akademie.at
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Golfing in the heart of Mühlviertel What is better than flying ? Correct – playing golf ! It is the pursuit of one’s personal record – not alone, but with friends and acquaintances. Golf is sport !
During a golf round of 7 km you will burn 1800 kcal. This is true. The interaction of walking and concentrating results in a very high burning of calories. Golf is a sport you can carry out from a very young age up well into old age. Why is golf addictive? Because it does good walking through the countryside in open, clean air for 4 to 5 hours while trying to put a ball in a remote hole. At times you are totally concentrated, and sometimes thoughts wander … you relax … completely. Work stress is completely forgotten within 20 min. You have already exchanged the serious but also the funniest experiences of the day and are detached from your boss, colleagues or suppliers – in focus remains the tactical game with a small, white ball, on a perfectly mown course – pure life in leisure time. Do you know the oasis in the centre of the Kernland region? No? So it is time to get to know St. Oswald / Fr. and the golf course, which is situated in a half-circle around the town. However, you should not only come to see the wonderful landscape, but also the golfers. Kids, young people and adults – here you can meet them all. In the club house, as with other types of sport, you will meet friendly people. After having finished your golf round recall and discuss it together with like-minded companions. Communicating with others is an important part of playing golf, and there are plenty of things to talk about after a round of golf – believe me.
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Golf in St. Oswald / Fr. is very reasonable! This year the club committee of the golf club St. Oswald offers you golf for a remunerative price. As a “leisure golfer” you can become a member of the club at an annual fee of € 340.– and profit from using the training facilities all year round. If you are not able to swing a golf club perfectly yet, our trainer (called pro = professional) Manfred Krainz will teach you how, so that you will get hooked on this sport. Come to see! Bring along your friends and acquaintances. Take a look around. Ask questions – a member of the club committee is nearly always present at the golf course to answer them. GC St. Oswald / Freistadt 4271 St. Oswald, Am Golfplatz 1 Phone: +43 7945/7938 www.gcstoswald.at
Tariffs For only € 340.– you can become a member of the Golf Club St. Oswald. There is no club joining-fee. Annual playing fees Young people under 14 years are free Apprentices and students € 340.– Leisure golf membership for beginners and occasional players € 340.– Full membership € 980.– Golf School St. Oswald One of Austria’s best golf instructors, the president of PGA of Austria Manfred Krainz is director of the Golf School St. Oswald. In 2013 he offers basic golf training for € 69.–. After having completed his studies in sports equipment technology, Armin Rockenschaub started the golf shop business RockoCCino in 2013. RockoCCino informs … A shop for golfers – advice & service have top priority! RockoCCino inspires ... Trendy, fashionable Chervo clothes, accessories as well as Ecco & FJ shoes! RockoCCino enthuses … Individually adapted golf clubs for maximum joy of playing RockoCCino offers … A coffee as a special thanks to its customers.
Price basis 2013
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Come to appreciate winter Enjoy Mühlviertler Kernland in winter – and you will come to appreciate the advantages of winter.
Mühlviertler Kernland cross-country ski trails Mainly easy trails for pleasure, classic trails, skating trails and trails for children – the various trails of different lengths meet all requirements of cross-country skiers. Map of cross-country ski trails Mühlviertler Kernland
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A network of trails covering 220 km at an n winter you can rediscover a charming winter landscape. The hills are even
more gently rounded and the woods are qui-
The most beautiful time of the year – here
altitude ranging from 700 to 1000 metres.
it should be an experience for body, mind
Available in the tourist office!
and soul. Admire the glittering rays of
eter; you move through a land, which offers
the sun on white snow above the foggy
Cross-country skiing guide Mühlviertel
absolute harmony and is restful to the eyes.
valleys – during winter hiking, sledging,
It describes 32 cross-country skiing areas
cross-country skiing or alpine skiing – it is
with 111 trails and 815 trail kilometres,
Discover a magic winter wonderland
kind of mystical.
including altitude diagrams and lengths,
Plunge into the glittering world of ice crys-
An ice-stock match (similar to ice-curling)
tals deep in the woods. In Mühlviertler Kern-
on one of our natural ponds or alleys
Christoph Wolfsegger)
land you will spend relaxing holidays, re-
with a roast dinner afterwards will be an
Available in the tourist office for € 25.–
tips on locations for a break or for visits, trail
charge your batteries, discover hidden cor-
unforgettable experience for you and your
ners, try new things and enjoy rural culture.
friends.
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diary and photos (authors: Sara Sveninge &
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Snow fun in Sandl
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Gothic church St. Michael directly next to the cross-country ski trail of Grünbach
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Winter pleasure on Frauenteich Freistadt
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Discover hidden corners with snowshoes
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Advent market in Freistadt
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Advent market Weinberg
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Nights of legends in Sandl
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Winter wonderland Grünbach
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Magic Advent
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Viehberg Sandl 1112 m
Numerous Advent markets with typical handicrafts from Mühlviertel, Advent concerts, readings and the Twelve Days of Christmas events reduce the waiting period until Christmas.
Nights of legends in Sandl Every year, during the Twelve Days of Christmas – between Christmas and Epiphany – the traditional nights of legends take place in Sandl. A theatre group, led by Josef “Luki” Mandl, wanders from one inn to another in Sandl, stopping to tell and act out old legends. Information and dates:
When there is natural snow (we do not waste precious water for artificial snow), there is really something going on here at Viehberg. The best thing is: Everyone is welcome! Skiers, boarders, sledgers, mini-bobs, plastic bag sliders, snowman builders, touring skiers, winter lovers. 2 lifts and 3 blue descent routes guarantee skiing fun at moderate prices. You also get single tickets here. Grandchildren are free if accompanied by their grandparents. We offer a magic carpet for the young and a fun park for the older guests. Refreshments and warmth are offered in the Viehberg hut. It even offers cosy beds for staying overnight.
Tourist office Mühlviertler Kernland Phone +43 7942 / 757 00 www.muehlviertler-kernland.at
www.viehberg.at www.schischule-sandl.at
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Shared experiences connect one another Guided tours of Freistadt Standard guided tours of the old town: group tariff € 75.– tariff for small groups € 45.– Guided tours of the old town with the night watchman: group tariff € 75.– tariff for small groups € 45.– Historical guided city tours: Guided city tours accompanied by medieval music (only during the Provincial Exhibition period from May to October 2013; every first Friday of the month at 4 pm, price: € 5.–/pers. Costume. Theatre. Guided city tours: www.stadtlux.at (group tariff € 145,– for max. 35 pers.) Fiery blacksmith’s demonstration in the romantic Thurytal valley: the revitalised hammer is still activated by a water wheel (up to 10 pers. € 20.–; 11 – 25 pers. € 40.–; every further person € 2.–) The underworld of Freistadt: We can arrange appointments for a visit to the old town cellars of Freistadt upon request. Information and booking of all guided tours with Touristik Mühlviertler Kernland phone +43 7942 / 757 00 www.muehlviertler-kernland.at Medieval adventure Package with overnight stay in an old town hotel incl. medieval spectacle dinner and supporting programme in the hotel. Price € 67.– per person Combinable with additional offers, such as: “Mystic Thurytal”, “Hot iron”, “Through narrow streets”, “From dark dungeons to high in the air”, “The first knight”.
Austria Guide Mag. Sonja Thauerböck Professional travel guide in Freistadt and throughout Austria. Special guided tours in Freistadt on the topics of beer, the Gothic period, art, architecture, pleasure, middle-ages, nature. Phone +43 664 / 105 60 42 www.upper-austriaguide.at
Roasting demonstration Suchan Café Roasting demonstration with coffee tasting inclusive 1 coffee of choice (€ 12.–/pers. incl. breakfast € 16.–/pers.) 2. Roasting demonstration incl. 1 coffee of choice (€ 8.–/pers.) 3. Coffee tasting incl. 1 coffee of choice (€ 8.–/pers.) phone: +43 664 / 854 65 43 www.suchankaffee.at
Mühlviertel horse-drawn railway in Rainbach Horse-drawn carriage ride and museum (€ 8.50/pers.), special programmes such as the “horse-drawn railway test” or “rail-track laying fun” phone: +43 7949 / 68 00 www.pferdeeisenbahn.at
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Herbal power source Hirschbach Guided herb walk with wild herbology, visit to the herb garden and small herb tasting (€ 6.50/pers.), rustic-style furniture museum and herb exhibition, giant herb pyramid (€ 4.50/pers.) phone: +43 7948 / 558 95 www.kraeuterkraftquelle.at
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Guided tours of the old town
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Roasting demonstration Suchan Café
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Mühlviertel horse-drawn railway
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Herbal power source Hirschbach
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Hop field Eder Bräu
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View from the keep of Castle Freistadt
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Display fruit pressing Pankrazhofer
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Castle brewery Weinberg
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Medieval adventure
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Schnapps museum Mittendorfer St. Oswald Let yourself be carried into the “spiritual” world of distillery in wonderful rooms with barrel vault. (Museum incl. tasting from € 5.–/pers.) phone +43 7945 / 72 03 www.mittendorfer.net
Beer restaurant Eder Bräu Pregarten-Kefermarkt Friendly beer restaurant with home-made beer and its own hop plantations. The landlady herself will be pleased to explain everything about brewing beer to groups. Hop growing is well illustrated by means of a film. phone +43 7236 / 209 40 www.ederbraeu.at
Castle brewery Weinberg Kefermarkt
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The former horse stable with its mighty vaults and granite columns has been turned into very cosy, stylish restaurant rooms with copper beer vessels. Talks on beer and tastings. For prices phone +43 7947 / 71 11 www.schlossbrauerei.at
Display fruit pressing Pankrazhofer, Tragwein
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Cider restaurant, cider tasting with cider sommelier, with snacks upon request phone +43 7263 / 882 95 www.pankrazhofer.at
Guided nature tours in the protected landscape area Natura 2000
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Guided tours in protected areas communicate nature, for example: “Hiking with migratory sheep”, “Hiking without borders along the European Green Belt” or “Through the wild Feldaist valley” phone +43 664 / 514 35 48 www.naturschauspiel.at
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Freistadt T H E M E D I E VA L B R E W I N G C I T Y
The Kernland capital and brewing city impresses with medieval charm paired with the urban advantages of a district capital.
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the well preserved fortifications, but also the streets and alleys with their cultural and culinary offers.
Trip into the Middle Ages Discover several hidden treasures on your walk through the old town: many arcade courts and passages, artistically designed guild symbols or the lovingly renovated and restored facades from different eras take us
ibrant and typically comfortable life
Surrounded by the city walls and gates the
on an exciting, diverse journey of discov-
old town, which is under heritage protec-
ery through the centuries. Don’t miss one
you can’t escape from. The weekday’s
tion, offers a wide range of sights: towers
of the various guided city tours on offer:
bustle on the generously designed main
and gates, alleys and squares, nooks and
ranging from carriage rides to guided night
square leaves enough space for happy
crannies. The 50m high keep of the castle
watchman tours in the dark (see box), there
conversations and friendly meetings. The
offers a breath-taking 360° panorama view
is something for every taste and mood. Let
market days are the highlight of economic
of the city and its surroundings. On the
yourself be taken on a trip into the past!
meet and melt into an atmosphere,
and gastronomic life. From May to October
way up you can live through rural history
but also on some days in autumn and
and stories in the museum of local history.
An oasis of tranquillity can be found in the
winter the city centre changes into a market
Those who prefer to keep their feet on the
completely newly designed garden of the
square, a place to meet and enjoy. Be part
ground, will be delighted as well: discover
city park. You will find rare flowers, bushes
of it! (Dates and information in the Kernland
and experience not only the parish church
and trees alongside a small stream, a play-
office)
Katharinenmünster, the two city gates and
ground for the children to romp about as
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Linzertor
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Keep of Castle Freistadt
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Parish church Katharinenmünster and St. Mary’s Fountain
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Dechanthofturm
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Enchanting arcades and passages
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Böhmertor with castle moat
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Historic targets
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Cellar world of the old town
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Old city smithy
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well as places and benches, which invite you
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Freistadt invites you to discover it !
to have a break and relax. Again and again you will have an unexpected, special view of the walls and structures of the old town. The promenade leads through the park and around the city directly to the brewery, one of the most important and largest buildings in the town. The shop offers many small gifts or souvenirs and the restaurant will spoil you not only with beer specialities. Those who are more interested in Freistädter Bier, can let themselves be introduced to the secrets of brewing arts during a guided tour. However, one thing is absolutely characteristic for Freistadt: It requires a second glance – because the medieval brewing city offers its guests much more than what is obvious and ever-present on first sight!
Nothing is so informative and complete as a guided tour of the city with a professional city guide and all his or her stories and anecdotes ! Freistadt offers many different guided tours: the old town tour of Freistadt, the pleasure tour of Freistadt (can be customised individually), a city tour with the night watchman, carriage rides with an old town guide, the smithy tour of Freistadt (blacksmith’s demonstration possible), Freistadt’s stations of the cross or the tour of Freistadt’s suburbs (other tours and special destinations upon request). At 7 pm every Friday, from May to September, a city guide from the tourist association welcomes you in the castle court under the chestnuts. In a one and a half hour pleasant tour he or she explains the history of the city and the most important sights. Participation in Friday’s guided tour is free (no need to book)! Get more information from Touristik Mühlviertler Kernland.
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Grünbach THE SUNNY SIDE OF LIFE
to the Feldaist source, on the Beer Path to Lichtenau or through the Thurytal valley to Neumühle, you will discover the treasures of nature, villages and people.
Grünbach is in league with the sun. Whoever plans a trip can hope for its company. Clearly situated above the fog zone, the sunny municipality offers a wonderful panorama with the alpine chain in the south and the heights of the Bohemian Forest in the north.
The typical “Steinbloß” style with white limewashed granite walls witnesses the modest farming way of life in former times. Many sections of the paths are still bounded by low walls of piled up stones. Local inns serve what stems from busy work and
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traditional handicraft. Nine villages hold rünbach’s most beautiful sun window
and the Mitterbach stream northwards into
social life together in Grünbach. Nine vil-
is a small church at an altitude of
the Elbe; it is a special place of power for
lages, which have not remained in the past,
900 metres, which is open throughout the
hikers seeking relaxation and peace.
but excel in hospitality and many different initiatives full of vibrant life. The inhabitants
year. St. Michael ob Rauchenödt with a late ny of building and landscape.
Paths as contemporary witnesses
The church is situated exactly at the Central
Signposted hiking paths of about 40 kilo-
same name in Europe and beyond. Every
European divide, which lets the Feldaist
metres invite you to fully enjoy sun and
two years they invite everyone to a get
stream flow southwards into the Danube
nature in Grünbach. Walking to St. Michael,
together without frontiers at a big town fair.
Gothic winged altar forms a unique harmo-
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cultivate, for example, partnership and friendship with a dozen municipalities of the
About mushrooms and their secrets Refreshment for water lovers The main village of the municipality with a population of 2000 people is Grünbach with its stacked houses and its large granite church, which guards them like a protective
Even amateurs know boletuses, chanterelles and parasol mushrooms, so very often they end up in our frying pans. Dotted stem bolete – these sound rather toxic. “But they aren’t,” the mushroom expert Helmut Pammer explains. He is a member of the mycological working group, which gathers, extends and transfers knowledge about all kinds of mushrooms and their particular characteristics. You can admire up to 150 different kinds of mushrooms during the mushroom exhibitions at the restaurant Forellenwirt in Mitterbach / Grünbach.
hen her chicks, reflected in the water of the close pond Freiwaldteich. The leisure pond in the centre of the village is an eldorado for water lovers – it offers refreshment in summer and sunny fresh air on the ice-curling tracks in winter. The cross-country skiing paradise Mitterbach is well-known with winter-sports enthusiasts. Information phone: +43 7942 / 728 13 www.gruenbach.freiwald.at
In 2013 they take place on Sunday, 28th July, on Sunday, 25th August and on Sunday, 15th September, from 11 am to 6 pm respectively. Those who want to go into more detail of the well-tasting forest dwellers are welcome to the mushroom seminars. Beginners will meet on Saturday, 31st August, advanced are invited on September 14th – from 9 am to 6 pm respectively. Please phone +43 7942 / 728 04 to register.
www.gruenbach.at
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Gutau D Y E R S ’ M U N I C I PA L I T Y A L L I N B L U E
Blue-dye prints can be seen everywhere in Gutau. The dyers’ municipality is all in blue – in the dyer museum, in the blue-dye printing workshop and at the dyer market.
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any German language idioms
“Dyer girl, dance with me”
include the word blue and that
The annual dyer market on the first Sunday
means they can be traced back to the old
in May is a real festivity of blue-dye printing.
dyers. The dyer trade flourished with the
Blue-dye printers from all over Europe
cultivation of flax and innumerable cottage
come together in Gutau on this day. The
industry of linen weaving. One of the most
market with stands full of blue-dye printed
noteworthy building monuments of the
fabrics, traditional costumes and varied
dyer crafts of that time is the dyer house
handicraft work is surrounded by a cultural
in Gutau. In its rooms, which are adapted
supporting programme with music and
as a museum today, the dyer activity was
dance. It is really impressive to admire the
practised until 1968. Particularly remarkable
variety of blue-dye printed textiles worn by
in this rural baroque building from the 17th
the female visitors to the market. Gutau all
century is the big hipped saddle roof for
in blue – in the true sense of the word.
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the drying room and the wooden garment corridor to ventilate the drying room.
Timeless craftsmanship
The blue-dye printing workshop invites you
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The blue-dye printing workshop situated
Today the cultural and economic history of
directly opposite the dyer museum ensures
the dyer trade with a focus on the produc-
that you can enjoy the beautiful fabrics
tion of blue-dye prints can be clearly traced
in Gutau throughout the year. The tailor’s
in the museum. Blue-dye printed fabrics
workshop tailors to measure and invites you
played an important role in the rural house-
to seminars and courses about the topic of
hold for clothes and linen. Lately blue-dye
blue-dye printing.
printing is experiencing a renaissance beyond the traditional finish. Although
Phone: +43 7946 / 62 55-30
there are only two blue-dye printing dyers
www.gutau.at
left throughout Austria, the typical white
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patterns on blue background are popular again even with young people. Women as well as men wear the fabric from handicraft production – ranging from traditional costumes to combinations with jeans. The dyer museum is open from May to October (only with guided tour): Wednesday and Friday at 10 and 11 am, on Fridays also at 3 and 4 pm. Extra guided tours, apart from the hours of the guided tours, are available upon request: +43 676 / 685 49 83
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The kingfisher as a symbol Experience nature – enjoy life; this is the motto of the dyers’ community Gutau. It stands for a natural way of life with consideration for a sustainable use of energy and with low-impact leisure offers such as archery, riding e-bikes and hiking. The kingfisher, which is dependent on an intact ecosystem can be considered the symbol of this attitude. In many places the small friend with its blue back and brown-red chest is threatened by extinction or has completely disappeared. The ornithological path in Gutau is dedicated to this species. Accompanied by the kingfisher’s symbol and its little friend “Meisi”, visitors have a diverse walk (duration approx. 1.5 hours) through woods and meadows. Even at the start (opposite the dyer museum) the impressive film “The flying desire” will get young and old in the right mood for the world of birds. Several stops along the path invite you to experience and learn through play. For groups a nature and landscape guide is available. Tired hikers are delightfully catered for in the six inns situated around the market square. Information and booking: Phone: +43 7946 / 64 42 4
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Folk dance at the dyer market
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Blue-dye printing products at the sales stand
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Guided tour at the dyer museum
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Dyer museum exterior view
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Blue-dye printing popular with young and old
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Finished fabrics
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Experience blue-dye printing 29
Hagenberg H I G H - T E C H W I T H I N A N C I E N T WA L L S
Cultural jewel In the 12th century, a castle was built in Hagenberg to protect commercial travellers on the salt road to Bohemia. Over the centuries, the fortification changed into a palace in the renaissance style with an inte-
A new spirit has entered the ancient walls of Castle Hagenberg. Once built to protect commercial travellers on the salt road, it now stands for research, high technology and software-orientated mathematics.
grated castle chapel particularly worth seeing. Now, in the 21st century, it is a centre of science, administration and culture. The association of Castle Hagenberg regularly invites you to exhibitions, lectures and concerts of national and international artists in
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the historical rooms of the old castle alking through Hagenberg – situ-
ment to Hagenberg. Also it has brought a
ated 20 km north of Linz – is a jour-
new lease of life to the castle, which was
(www.schlossverein-hagenberg.at).
ney through time. Starting at the castle with
generally in a dilapidated state then. The
A green oasis
its foundations dating back to the Middle
historic walls – renovated at great expend-
The landscape park to the west of the castle
Ages up to the modern software park with
iture – have become the heart of the new
with local and exotic types of trees, mead-
university and polytechnic courses and
Hagenberg. The event hall, the stylish
ows and ponds was already created in the
over 1500 students. The RISC, a research
castle restaurant and the rustic “ice cellar”
17th century.
institute belonging to the University Linz
are full of young life. On the slope above
It is an oasis of tranquillity surrounded by
has brought pioneers, students, research-
the castle, there stretches the extensive
bubbly student life and directly adjacent to
ers and companies of software develop-
university campus.
the software park.
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The IT forge, which is a leading technology
Architecture combining old and new
centre of international renown, is best seen during a guided tour. Bookings under phone: +43 7236 / 33 43-0 E-mail: office@softwarepark-hagenberg.com Guests and local people alike enjoy the contrasts between high-tech and nature, between research, science and recreation. Idyllic hiking paths ensure the connection to the classic environment in Mühlviertel.
Hagenberg has been a perfect example of careful architecture in rural areas for years. The restoration of the castle shows, how old structures can be preserved and combined with new ones. The responsible architects’ credo was to show respect to ancient walls and not to adulterate them by imitations. Another jewel from the past is Kumpfmühle. The mill has been reconstructed almost true to the original. The technical college Hagenberg represents a highlight of modern architecture in the style of traditional rural buildings. The new building is especially convincing by its conception of a courtyard. This traditional form gives the building complex a strong identity. The amsec building, promising headquarters for software-related companies, shines with modern architecture. Another impressive complex is the so-called New Centre – the business and infrastructure centre of Hagenberg. Deeper insight into architectural reflections and details of the realisation can be acquired from the new architectural guide of Hagenberg – available at the municipal office.
Phone: +43 7236 / 23 18 www.hagenberg.at
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Hirschbach EXPERIENCING HERBS
Home-made herb tastings are served in the herb garden. From April to October various culinary and medicinal plants flourish and scent in the herb garden as well as on the impressive herb pyramid. Horse-drawn carriage rides through the herbal land – along-
Cowslips, dandelions and daisies can be seen everywhere in meadows and by the wayside in Mühlviertel. Invigorating medicinal herbs and spices are especially shown in the herbal community Hirschbach.
side scented, colourful herb fields will be an unforgettable experience for the senses. Of course, herbs are not only beneficial as remedies, ointments and teas. They also ensure that our food is full of taste, diverse
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and healthy. Cooking with fresh or dried herbs from Hirschbach is a very delicate
he herbal community Hirschbach,
herb products are offered for sale. Get
surrounded by gentle hills, is situated
plenty of useful information about the
possibility to take a bit of holiday home.
in the culinary region Mühlviertler Kernland.
plants growing in the region and many tips
The quality of the herbs from Hirschbach
The herbal power source of the region
for hiking tours to the herb fields of the
delightfully develop in the cooking pots of
is entirely dedicated to local herbs, their
municipality. During a guided herb walk
the herb restaurants of Hirschbach, which
effects and processing. The herb barn and
along the Mountain Herb Path, visitors will
should be tasted when taking a stop.
herb garden are the learning and culi-
gain insight into the history, application
nary centres in the village. The herb barn
and mysticism of wild herbs. Some “herb
Experience and learn
hosts the exhibition “Experience herbal
recipes” will be revealed – such as one
Comprehensive knowledge about herbs is
knowledge” and a small herb shop, where
for a love potion or one for a healing tea
passed on in various courses and seminars
teas, juices and many fragrant, delicious
infusion.
in the herbal community Hirschbach.
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They teach you how to make herbal soaps
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Herb garden
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Franz-von-Zulow Square
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Herb garden
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Herb exhibition “Experience herbal knowledge” in the herb barn
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Welcome symbol at the entrances to the village
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Herb barn, Rustic Furniture Museum, herb pyramid
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Horse-drawn carriage
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The most beautiful rustic wardrobes
and oils and which plants are beneficial for our immune system. The university training course “Wild herbs and medicinal plants” has been developed in cooperation with the University of Agricultural and Environmental Teacher Training and the Upper Austrian rural training institution (ländliches Fortbildungswerk, LFI). The participants acquire scientifically founded expert knowledge in four part-time semesters. Whether herb exhibition, herbal hiking tour, herb restaurant or distillery – it is not surprising that it’s all about the tasty plants in Hirschbach. The balanced climate on the prehistoric rock of Mühlviertel is especially advantageous for medicinal herbs in this area. Phone: +43 7948 / 558 95 www.kraeuterkraftquelle.at
“Experience herbs, recharge your batteries, find the source” – this is the motto of the herbal community Hirschbach. The vision to combine pleasure and herbal knowledge has been the basis for the stylish design of the tourist centre in the village. The Franz-von-Zülow-Square is a place of art and contemplation as well as a memorial to the well-known painter, who lived and worked in Hirschbach. A special exhibition is kept in remembrance of his work. The herb barn with its exhibitions and the unique Rustic Furniture Museum “Edlmühle” are situated on the Zülow square. The mill, renovated with style, displays the rural culture of former times. Wonderful, hand-painted rustic furniture from the 18th and 19th century provide insight into a time of need, when rustic handicraft flourished. The rustic furniture of Hirschbach (called Hirschbacher Bauernmöbel) with its chests, wardrobes, round baskets, tables and beds has won global reputation and are sought-after collector’s items today. The Rustic Furniture Museum is open from 1st May to 31st October, on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 2 to 5 pm and on Sundays from 10 am to 12 and from 2 to 5 pm.
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Kefermarkt C U LT U R E . W E D D I N G S. H I G H L I G H T S
When approaching Kefermarkt, the majestic castle, situated high above the town, catches one’s eye from afar. Just below, the parish church hosts a cultural treasure which is world famous – the winged altar of Kefermarkt.
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wo noble families have left their grand marks in the small town Kefer-
the wonderful photo motives in the castle park. The new castle kitchen will provide
markt in Mühlviertel: The Zelkings and the
for the wedding reception or the wedding
Thurheims. One of the Zelkings donated
party can be held in the nearby brewery
the impressive Gothic winged altar in the
restaurant.
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parish church and the former castle of the 13th century was transformed into the
Cultural highlights
palace with today’s appearance under the
Kefermarkt is a cultural attraction in the
Thurheimers, characterized by the late
region as well as an educational institution
Renaissance and early baroque style.
and event hot spot.
The parish church of Kefermarkt excels with
The castle is a worthy setting for concerts.
its world-famous winged altar cut in lime
At Easter and in Advent handicraft markets
wood. It is, together with the Pacher altar in
attract thousands of people to visit Castle
St. Wolfgang and St. Mary’s altar in Kraków,
Weinberg. The hustle and bustle in the
one of the three largest Gothic altarpieces
castle courtyard and in many small and
from the end of the 15th century. Adalbert
larger chambers and up to the tower is a
Stifter, who was responsible for the resto-
really magnificent experience. Those who
ration of the treasure in 1852, as a schools
want to learn more about the castle and
inspector, wrote: “It is not just a piece of art
its history of 800 years are recommended
good for a time, a place or its kind, but a
to join a guided tour of the castle. The
piece of art of the highest rank.”
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circular nature trail in the romantic Feldaist valley leads past another event centre. The
Marry like a prince
municipally owned, rural Pienkenhof (www.
A bride, completely in white, finely dressed
pienkenhof.at) is the venue for concerts,
wedding guests, extraordinary surround-
lectures and theatre performances organ-
ings of marble, stucco and gold brocade
ised by the association “Kultur am Pienken-
– is there a more beautiful picture? The
hof”, abbreviated KAP.
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ceremonial rooms of Castle Weinberg invite you to celebrate special moments in
Castle Weinberg
life here.
Educational and event centre
Wedding couples spend unforgettable
Phone +43 7947 / 65 45
hours in the tasteful ambience of the hall
www.schloss-weinberg.at
of knights, the imperial room or the hall of ancestors. They use the small chapel of the
Market town Kefermarkt
castle or the close parish church to make
Phone: +43 7947 / 59 10
their marriage vows and are pleased with
www.kefermarkt.at
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We brew our own beer In 1387 beer brewing by the Zelkings, the first castle owners of Weinberg, was mentioned. The required hops for brewing beer were cultivated in the surroundings. The annual beer production was about 1750 buckets (980 hectolitres) in the 18th century. Since 1989 beer has been brewed again in the historic stables of the 400 year old manor. Weinberger Schlossbräu is made directly in the restaurant rooms of the castle brewery, in light and dark quality with an original wort of 11.8 degrees and 4.5 % alcohol by volume, made of absolutely pure spring water, hops from Mühlviertel and malt. It goes without saying that the natural, unfiltered beer can be tried directly on the spot. The restaurant brewery is well known for its idyllic beer garden under chestnut trees with a view of the impressive castle beyond the castle pond. An educational beer trail and a nearby dowsing trail invite you to enjoy the countryside again after epicurean refreshment. Phone: +43 7947 / 71 11 www.schlossbrauerei.at
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Castle Weinberg at night
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Winged altar of Kefermarkt
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Wedding in the hall of knights
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Castle Weinberg in Mühlviertler Kernland
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Aerial photograph of Castle Weinberg
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Romantic wedding in an elegant ambiance
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16th century tiled stove, hall of ancestors
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Door of 1622 in fable chamber
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Unique stucco ceiling in the hall of ancestors
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Lasberg
The start for the walking arena is situated
WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF HIKING
the different topics of the paths, which the
at the leisure park. Hiking can be contemplative as well as eventful. This is shown by hiking guide Sepp Wittinghofer (landlord of the restaurant “Haltestelle”) knows all
Hiking activates all senses – this is what the hiking enthusiastic municipality Lasberg in the Kernland area is convinced of. Enjoyment, culture and recreation while walking through the hiking world.
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about. The permanent IVV trails are designed for ambitiously sporty hikers. Those who enjoy hiking long distances will meet pleasure hikers on the diverse thematic paths.
alking makes one happy – accord-
However, a warning to all new hikers – after
The youngest hikers are attracted by
ing to this central idea some hiking
your hiking tour in this area, you will be
the “Fuchtelmännerweg” or the magic
enthusiasts from Lasberg have made their
homesick for Lasberg’s hiking world. The
Druid Path, adults feel the tranquillity on
municipality accessible for walking with all
best remedy for it: come back or, even
the wayside shrine path or in the sound
senses. One’s sight becomes clear for the
better, stay!
sculpture and barefoot park. The ascent on Braunberg is an adventure for all hikers
small beauties alongside the path – maybe a flower or a colourful butterfly. The heart
Placid or eventful
– rewarded by the wonderful panorama of the Alps offered by the countryside. Having
beats after having arrived at the top of a
100 kilometres of signposted hiking paths
hill. The stomach will be pleased having re-
start from the lovely market square in Las-
reached the rustic Alpine Association’s hut,
gained appetite for a hearty supper thanks
berg. Those travelling by train can access
its landlord Rudi Bründl gives back strength
to fresh air and movement.
the hiking world directly at the station.
with humour and a tasty supper.
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On the traces of craftsmen
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Buchberg
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Ruin Dornach
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Hohhaus Buchberg
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Barefoot path
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Druid path
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Market smithy
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Alpine Association’s hut Braunberg
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Adventurous woods
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Guest in “Hoh-Haus”
The friendly and active hiking community Lasberg also gives a lot of attention to the cultural monuments alongside the paths. So, many wayside shrines (memorials) made of stone have been carefully restored and old handicraft houses such as the market smithy, the “Fürstenhammer” or the spiral smithy (Kernland Museum) have been made accessible as local museums. There you can see a living image of old craftsmanship. The ruin Dornach or the newly constructed “Hoh-Haus” on Buchberg are situated directly alongside the themed paths of Lasberg (a map of the themed paths is available at the municipal office). Phone: +43 7947 / 73 10-21 or +43 7947 / 72 55-0, chairman of the tourist association “Tourismuskern”and hiking
The popular panorama platform “Hoh-Haus on Buchberg” is situated high above the Feistritz valley. The construction on the ancient castle rock is an architectural masterpiece. The wooden tower construction is a successful symbiosis between history and modern times. Following the traces of history, nature and culture make a visit to this special building an unforgettable experience for hikers and everybody. Boulderers (climbing without rope and belt) can also test their skilfulness on the rock face situated under the platform. There are several starting points for a hiking tour to HohHaus on Buchberg, such as the market square in Lasberg with its inns „Marktwirt” and “Hofer”, the hiking inn Stadler “Zur Haltestelle” directly next to the railway Summerauerbahn or the inn “Seppnwirt” in Elz. Parking is available in the market town Lasberg, at the sport and leisure park next to the inn “Lasberger Stüberl” or at the inns. A detour to the hut on Braunberg fits in well with the Hoh-Haus hiking tour.
guide Josef Wittinghofer Phone: +43 664 / 230 82 73
Infos under www.buchberg-hoh-haus.at
www.lasberg.at
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Leopoldschlag T H E E U R O P E A N G R E E N B E LT
Slowing down and unadulterated experience of nature characterize the most northern municipality Leopoldschlag in the Kernland area. It is situated alongside the natural landscape belt “The European Green Belt” – which connects 24 countries over a length of 8,500 kilometres.
T
he greatest treasure of Mühlviertler
Expert company
Kernland is its wonderful, diverse
Meeting point for an exploration with
landscape. The European Green Belt is an
expert company is the info-centre “Natura
international nature protection initiative
2000 – European Green Belt” in Leop-
with the purpose of preserving such areas
oldschlag. It offers information (exhibitions)
with their sensitive flora and fauna. In Leo-
but also booking possibilities to book guid-
poldschlag, harmony between plants
ed tours on various topics such as “Wildlife
and animals is particularly noticeable in
in winter”, “Spring awakening”, “Natural
the “Natura 2000 European nature reserve
flowing water” and many more. You will hike
Maltsch”. Hiking alongside the border
in the company of experts, who make the
river you will repeatedly find traces of our
habitat of corncrakes, whinchats, Europe-
ancestors, who gained their vital energy
an otters and other animal dwellers more
from water. But the river is also an important
accessible to you.
habitat.
The Association “Naturentdeckungen im
Freshwater pearl mussels, otters and threat-
Mühlviertler Kernland” conveys nature,
ened species of butterflies and dragonflies
bookable in the info-centre (request an info
feel well in this environment.
folder!). Experiencing nature and its beauty
Rush remains outside
the natural habitat of threatened species
Shady woods, flowering meadows and
and creating understanding and conscious-
crystal-clear water – this is pure recreation
ness for natural relationships. Hiking in
and relaxation. No matter if you want to
Leopoldschlag therefore also means expe-
1
is central – always remembering to preserve
relax or be active during your holiday, the “slowing down” holiday experience as a
ditions full of adventure, insights and finally a source of impressive memories.
3
contrast to hectic daily life is especially valuable. Due to its position on the “European
Phone: +43 7949 / 205 76
Green Belt”, Leopoldschlag offers regional,
Phone: +43 664 / 514 35 48
unique countryside and landscape charac-
www.leopoldschlag.at
teristics, which open a new perspective on the central values of life.
38 3
Old artists, new masters The pottery “Hafnerhaus” in Leopoldschlag makes doing pottery an adventure. Pottery was done here from the beginning of the 18th century until 1930. The potters in Leopoldschlag produced mainly glazed earthenware, i.e. various tableware for daily use. In the former furnace of the potter’s workshop you can inform yourself about the history of the house and the activities of a potter. It finally gets exciting when you start doing pottery yourself. The “Hafnerhaus” offers many interesting pottery courses. The course programme is available by e-mail: tourismus@leopoldschlag.ooe.gv.at.
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For information phone: +43 7949 / 82 55-15 or look at www.hafnerhaus.at.
Complete your museum visit by hiking on the 4.5 kilometre long “Adventure Pottery Path”, dedicated especially for children and families. Follow the traces of potters at seven stops and experience the potter’s work while playing. Have a break at the “potter’s inns” in the village to complete your museum visit in a culinary way.
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The “Hafnerhaus” is open on Sundays from 2 to 5 pm and by appointment by phone.
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Guided nature and landscape tours
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Firelilies
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River landscape Maltsch
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Wild boars
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Corncrake
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European otter
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Neumarkt O N T H E B AC K O F H O R S E S
The large equestrian centre with a hall, dressage arena, jumping course and military trail is particularly attractive for expert riders. Many big riding events – for example the European Championship in eventing – have already taken place here.
Saddle up, put your nose into the wind and feel close to nature – there is nothing better than a ride on horseback. The riding community Neumarkt presents this pleasure in many ways.
On the traces of nature Those, who prefer watching horses from a safe distance, can discover the riding community on shank’s pony or by bike.
H
The newly designed market square is an orses are really fascinating – their
dressage in the English style and jumping
pride, their powerful bodies and
over obstacles.
ideal starting point for a cycling tour. The well signposted circular cycling route of Neumarkt leads you through the typical hilly
their harmony, which you can feel when working with them. It is not surprising that
Increasingly popular is trail riding. If you
landscape to the large and small villages of
horse riding meanwhile counts among the
want to discover the landscape at a com-
the 3000 inhabitants’ municipality. Directly
most popular leisure and holiday events.
fortable pace, you will find well signposted
in the town centre two electric filling sta-
The riding community Neumarkt with its
paths and reliable riding horses in Neu-
tions are available to recharge your e-bike
diverse offers ensures that everyone will
markt. For first riding experiences during a
for free. Hikers are particularly attracted by
be satisfied. After all it makes a difference
holiday, you should attend a basic course.
the charming environment of the European
whether you are cantering across country
The marvellous environment and the well
Natura 2000 and bird protection area in the
in a western saddle or dedicate yourself to
trained horses ensure fabulous rides.
valley of Kleine Gusen.
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National and international riding events in Neumarkt
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Cider museum Trosselsdorf
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Trail riding in Neumarkt
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Natural jewel Kleine Gusen
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Typical “Stoabloß” complex in the village Stiftung
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But also the ascent to the impressive rock formations on the 800 metre high peaks of Zeißberg, Kirchberg or “Himmelstiege” are worthwhile challenges. On clear days you can even enjoy a view of the Northern Alps. No matter if you want to discover Neumarkt as a hiker, by mountain bike or on horseback, many family-friendly but also demanding hiking trails and tours lead through the well-kept cultural landscape. “Go south”, for instance, is the motto of the circular Gusental path, which mainly leads along the horse-drawn-railway path. Young hikers stroll along the gnomes’ path in Götschka through the Klingerholz wood and discover the numerous forest dwellers with their red caps.
Cheers with cider The museum path is a very popular hiking path in Neumarkt – it leads past the cider museum in Trosselsdorf. A really good museum must be presented in a vivid way. For this reason you can taste delicious cider here. Cider is – technically speaking – fermented fruit juice. Usually juice from cider pears but also from cider apples is used for it. Due to their high tannin content the fruits cannot be eaten raw, but they provide a splendid refreshing, tasty and slightly alcoholic cider. Family Miesenberger present in their Cider Museum in an old press house in traditional “Stoabloß” style in Neumarkt equipment from historic cider production. In the attached restaurant you can not only discuss cider, but also enjoy it. Cider tastes best with the offered traditional snack. It ranges from a cider roast, a mixed platter or special cheese and other delicacies. The Cider Museum Neumarkt is open throughout the year for guided tours: on Sundays at 2, 3 and 4 pm.
Phone: +43 7941 / 82 55-11 www.neumarkt-muehlkreis.ooe.gv.at
Additional guided tours for groups are available upon request: +43 660 / 345 03 49.
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Pregarten C U LT U R A L T O W N O N T H E R I V E R A I S T
Theatre, music, cabaret, museums – the heart of the young town Pregarten at the gateway to the Mühlviertler Kernland area beats for culture.
Pregarten has got a long history as an eco-
House of Encounter
nomic and trading town, which is clearly dis-
The cultural centre Bruckmühle represents
played in the museum on the town square.
an ambitious contemporary art quarter,
First settlements in this historic place in
which combines regional initiatives as
Mühlviertel date back to the Bronze Age.
well as guests from all over the world. The
The economic and industrial roots of today’s
varied cultural offers and theatre produc-
small town with 5000 inhabitants are reflect-
tions provide constant, exciting contrasts in
ed in the history of the first Upper Austrian
Bruckmühle. They include the art exhibi-
earthenware factory (Bruckmühle), which is
tions and collection of the gallery, the art
shown in the so-called “Lehnerhaus” on the
education programme and the associated
town square.
atelier with its printing workshop as well as
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the musical repertoire of a Provincial Music
Shopping, enjoying culture
school throughout the year. More than
Shopping, meeting in a cafe, at the swim-
four-hundred-thousand people have visited
ming pool or the miniature golf course –
Bruckmühle since its inauguration in 1999.
the daily goings-on in the town and various
This makes the house of culture one of the
leisure activities attract people from the
most visited cultural centres in the country.
surrounding municipalities to come to Pre-
The town upon the Aist is always pleased
garten. During the last years the town’s offi-
to support new impulses and initiatives.
cials have skilfully succeeded in combining
Pregarten drew attention to itself with the
the bustling economy with the splendour
international literature contest “Schreib-
of cultural activity. So, at the place, where
kraft” and attracted the cultural avant-garde
once earthenware was produced, a visually
with a theatre production by the town from
remarkable cultural complex, embedded
beyond Upper Austrian borders.
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in the protected landscape area “Lower Feldaist”, has been created. The cultural
Phone: +43 7236 / 22 55-0
centre Bruckmühle was part of the past,
www.pregarten.at
before architects have breathed new life
www.bruckmuehle.at
into the former commercial building. You will immediately notice the giant dome 5
building above the event centre, which has been modelled on a granite rock (boulder) of Mühlviertel. The facade of steel and concrete opens towards the countryside of
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House of culture Bruckmühle Pregarten
the Feldaist river with a two-storey glazing
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Museum Pregarten
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Exhibit: oil carafe with moulding from the first Upper Austrian earthenware factory
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Cultural centre on the Aist
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Varied cultural and theatre productions in the house of culture Bruckmühle
on the eastern side.
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Hiking in the wild, romantic Feldaist valley Bruckmühle in Pregarten is a popular starting and meeting point for athletic hikers or people going for brisk or gentle walks alongside the Feldaist. A large car park is provided for visitors to the town and hikers alike. The well signposted “Go-Run-and-Walk-Feldaist system” with overview boards at the respective starting and crossing points include walks of a few or extensive kilometres, just as you like. All generations are included in the experience of nature with the trend sports hiking, jogging and Nordic walking. In depends on your zest for experiencing nature and your appetite, in which direction you start from. Up the river in the direction of Kefermarkt, the romantic hiking tour leads you past impressive natural sites, the pitch oil stone, giant rock formations and historic buildings such as the ancient mill Kumpfmühle. Down the river the path leads past mills and legendary places of power to Kriehmühle, a traditional restaurant, where roasted trout is a speciality.
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Rainbach T R I P I N T O T H E PA S T
At the peak station Kerschbaum you are offered special delicacies in the “KutscherStub’n” and “Biedermeier-Stüberl”: a glass of “Gleishupfa” or a “Kutscher-Küsschen” (“coachman’s kiss”) – served by the charming ladies in Biedermeier costumes.
On the move at one horse power – not in a saddle, but in a comfortable saloon carriage. The adventure of the horse-drawn railway, which is back on the rails in Rainbach after 180 years.
T
Nostalgic sociable experience The horse-drawn railway event will be even more fun with like-minded companions. Group packages of one to three days put
he roots of the historic horse-drawn railway go back to 1832, when the
line Linz – České Budějovice was inaugu-
Harness and relax
you in a good mood and make a change.
The Biedermeier era awakens to new life
The horse-drawn-railway museum always
true to the original at the horse-drawn-rail-
comes up with good ideas especially
rated – the first public interurban railway in
way station Rainbach, where modern trav-
for school classes and children’s groups.
continental Europe then.
ellers are harnessed to relax. Starting from
Educational programmes such as “Electric
the reconstructed historic refectory pavilion,
loco looking for its great grandma“ or the
Actually, the first passengers must have felt
travel back in time on a nostalgic journey in
“Horse-drawn railway test” are a real hit with
they were in heaven in a carriage gently
the rebuilt carriages. The horse-drawn-rail-
the younger visitors. Particularly original:
gliding over rails instead of rolling and
way museum situated in the former vaulted
the horse-drawn railway as a gift! Send your
bumping over rough and smooth, as was
stables offers an insight into the history of
friends or business partners on an amusing
usual then, being thoroughly shaken.
the horse-drawn railway.
journey back in time to the Biedermeier era
44
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by giving them a voucher for a tailor-made
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Nostalgic journey in the luxury carriage “Hannibal”
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Pavilion at the rebuilt track true to the original
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Group competition
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Gleishupfa
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Take a nostalgic souvenir photo at the horse-drawn railway
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Nostalgic journey in a social carriage
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Mystic Mühlviertel
programme, a “Gleishupfa” package or a horse-drawn-railway VIP package.
On shank’s pony The horse-drawn-railway hiking path crosses Mühlviertel with eleven family-friendly hiking stages from the Bohemian Bujanov to Linz. Discover evidence of bygone railway days, mainly alongside the ancient route, such as the small bridge of Edelbruck. The horse-drawn railway is open from May to October: on Sundays from 1 to 4 pm; in August also from Monday to Friday from 2 to 4 pm. Groups over 15 persons are welcome anytime by arrangement: +43 7949 / 68 00 (Tue and Thu 9 to 11 am) or via e-mail: pferdeeisenbahn.museum@direkt.at
Heidenstein (Pagan stone) has always been known as a magic place. Rock formations of coarse Weinsberg granite, which served as a meeting point for groups living in the area or crossing it thousands of years ago. Heidenstein with its water bowls, which never dry out, was also used for observations of the stars and the sun. Get plenty of useful information about this Celtic place of worship on a guided tour. The Chakra Path is a real energy filling station next to Heidenstein. A walk past the signposted places up to the crown chakra has a harmonising, calming effect. The relationship between glass – art – nature and space is the main idea behind the Path of Colours. Several stops pursue this question. The thematic path is freely accessible and starts at the maze in the centre of the parish park opposite the municipal office and in front of the presbytery.
Information phone: + 43 7949 / 62 55 www.rainbach.at
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Sandl
ants in this archaic area from misfortune or give security against superstition. At that time, thousands of pictures were
W O R L D H E R I TAG E B E H I N D G L A S S
produced in Sandl and taken by hucksters and pedlars carrying wooden back frames to all countries of the monarchy to be sold.
Pictures painted “behind glass” are called “Sandlerbilder” and are a special treasure, which is kept and actively maintained in this small municipality of Mühlviertel. Verre églomisé painting even gained recognition as a national cultural heritage in 2012.
Then the typical family altar was decorated with a cross and verre églomisé pictures from Sandl. Mary and Joseph or the respective name day saints were often particularly displayed.
The upper layer first
F
Verre églomisé is painting behind glass, rom far away visitors come to the
Art in the family altar
verre églomisé museum in Sandl,
Verre églomisé painting made Sandl
colour are applied one after the other onto
well known even in the 19th century. The
the back of the carrier, so that the front is
where the origins of this complicated paint-
which means that the different layers of
painted first, then the background parts
ing technique is documented. The exhibi-
“Sandlerbilder” became a notion which
tion also shows the traditional glassworks
stood for the highly developed artisan-
and finally the primer on the whole surface. Subsequent corrections are consequently
in the Bohemian Forest region and explains
ship of their producers. Immigrants from
the raw material for flat glass production.
Northern Bohemia as well as local people
not possible. Sketches (designed on paper)
Glass is part of Mühlviertel’s history just like
dedicated themselves to the representation
are used for reference by tracing the
granite.
of saints, who should protect the inhabit-
outlines.
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Verre églomisé painting was nearly for-
Endless spaces nearby
gotten after 1940 due to the diffusion of cheap art prints and the abandonment of the glassworks. After World War II some verre églomisé painters tried to revive the tradition again. Nowadays the painters participate in art markets and offer courses in Sandl, where they pass on their know-how. Even in workshops at school the traditional art handicraft has been revived. Today there is one full time and a couple of part-time painters in Sandl. Not only religious motifs are popular, but also landscapes, ornaments etc. So probably snowmen and icicles develop behind glass in this popular winter sports community with its familiar skiing area with two T-bar lifts. Phone: +43 7944 / 82 55 www.sandl.at www.hinterglasmuseum-sandl.at
A billion of light years away, the universe hides secrets, which can be made visible to human eyes only with the help of technology. This is possible with the largest of the eight telescopes in the Sandl observatory. The builder of the observatory, Professor Wolfgang Wöss is an expert in astronomy and renowned for his cooperation with the NASA. During his stays in Sandl he is pleased to open up his observatory to visitors. A 16 kilometres long thematic path leads past the observatory. The Planet hiking path marks a true to scale reproduction of our solar system. You can even hear sounds from space on the info square next to Sandl observatory. Another attraction is the planet scales, which indicate your potential weight on single planets. The Planet hiking path starts on the Viehberg car park. A stargazer’s path (detour) leads past the Freiwald observatory, which is used by amateur astronomers. The particularly clear view in the most northern municipality of the region is the reason why it has got the highest density of observatories per inhabitant in the world. After all, there is one observatory per 720 inhabitants in Sandl.
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St. Oswald GOLFING IN A GENTLE LANDSCAPE
Pleasant club life Many long-standing members of the Golf Club St. Oswald bei Freistadt enjoy the friendly, familiar club life. It is a cordial togetherness, which is noticeable also by the guests. The diverse tournament and
St. Oswald bei Freistadt is in the heart of Mühlviertel. However, you feel as if you have come to Ireland, the cradle of golf. The golf course in the centre of the village is so idyllic.
event offers invite you to become a regular guest. Non-golfers or golf beginners have the opportunity to get to know the club in custom-made try out events for individuals or small groups to swing the club themselves. The Golf Club St. Oswald bei
O
Freistadt presents itself on the web under ld trees, meadows and pastures sur-
and experienced golfers alike. Golf in
round the golf course in St. Oswald
St. Oswald bei Freistadt is an experience of
www.gcstoswald.at.
bei Freistadt. Wayside crosses, shrines and
sport, nature and regional hospitality. The
An 18 hole greenfee can be booked from
the always present granite of Mühlviertel
club house situated on a little hill impresses
Monday to Sunday for 43 Euro. Mühlviertel
are constant companions on the 18 gener-
with its very charming architecture. From
offers five golf courses in total – justifiably
ous and perfectly maintained fairways. The
there you have a view of the golf course,
we can say that the one in St. Oswald bei Freistadt is the most original and most
fairways adapted to the natural landscape
which harmoniously fits into the landscape
and the well-guarded greens designed by
of Mühlviertel – gentle hills, lush meadows
charming thanks to its situation directly on
the Irish golf course architect Mel Flanagan
and deeply green woods delight the eyes of
the edge of town.
are often a sport challenge for beginners
the beholder.
48
Friendly market town After having played golf, enjoy a walk across the centre of the friendly market town St. Oswald bei Freistadt with cultural attractions and culinary delicacies – such as the impressive parish church or the local museums (the museum Kirchenhäusl, the outdoor museum Ledermühle, the first Upper Austrian Schnaps Museum). You will find several possibilities for a nice break or some relaxing free days. Phone: +43 7945 / 72 55 www.stoswald.at
Maria Bründl – a place of power St. Oswald bei Freistadt offers 110 kilometres of well signposted hiking paths at an altitude between 600 and 1000 metres. A well-known attraction, however, is the pilgrimage chapel Maria Bründl with its Meditation Path. The late baroque pilgrimage chapel Maria Bründl is surrounded by dense woods embedded in fantastic countryside – about three kilometres from St. Oswald. A few years ago the chapel was stylishly restored. Maria Bründl has been considered a “place of power” ever since the 17th century. Inside the chapel there is a healing spring with a radon content of 5.6 NCl per litre. In 2003 the water extraction point Maria Bründl was installed, so the baroque chapel has become a calm place of prayer again. Many visitors pilgrimage there every day to acquire power from the Bründl water, convinced by the good water quality. It is also the final point of the Steinbach Meditation Path, which starts on Kirchenplatz in St. Oswald bei Freistadt. It is possible to take an easy hiking tour alongside the romantic “Bachpromenade” with an educational path about trees and the open air museum Ledermühle with water wheel. The path is equipped with 22 meditative text boards (psalms and verses – in German and Czech).
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Tragwein RE-EXPERIENCE THE WORLD OF CASTLES
Who lived in a castle ? How were the knights armed ? What does the riddle of the bathing grotto in Reichenstein show ? The Upper Austrian Castle Museum opens the door to the exciting world of medieval castles. It presents culture and nature under one roof at Castle Reichenstein in the municipality of Tragwein.
V
isiting the modernly designed perma-
Art and culture centre
nent exhibition in the newly installed
Apart from the newly built Castle Museum,
castle centre you will take a three stage
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discover the historic castle. The freshly
journey in time from the High Middle Ages
restored castle chapel is perfectly suited
to the Early Modern Age. The tour pro-
for weddings and baptisms. Other rooms in
vides an insight into the topics “Castle and
the castle are also extraordinary settings for
sovereignty”, the architecture of castles as
parties and celebrations. Finally the castle
well as people and their living environment
is also a living art and culture centre with
in the castle. It includes the reconstructed
an ambitious event programme. It ranges
sitting room from the Late Middle Ages and
from music and theatre performances, to
a unique original: the partially reconstruct-
temporary exhibitions and various forms
ed bathing grotto from the early baroque
of contemporary art to innovative culture
golden age of Castle Reichenstein. Large
projects in the public sphere.
charts help in understanding the scientific
Castle Reichenstein is open from 15th April
exhibits, which mainly come from the col-
to 31st October from Tuesday to Sunday
lection of Alfred Höllhuber, a professor from
from 10 am to 5 pm (entrance until 4 pm).
Reichenstein. Herewith Reichenstein owns
Visits for groups and school classes with
Austria’s largest private collection from the
or without guided tour are also possible
Middle Ages.
outside the opening times – however by
The information centre about the European
arrangement:
nature reserve Waldaist-Naarn, also situat-
phone: +43 7236 / 314 00-0
ed in the new building, gives an insight into
www.burg-reichenstein.at
the connection between local fauna and
www.tragwein.at
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flora. The secret of Waldaist is the strictly protected freshwater pearl mussel – even
More about the teaching
Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) adorned herself
programmes under:
with these precious pearls.
www.faszination-natur.at www.faszination-burg.at
Castle Reichenstein is situated on a rock above the river and is also the starting point 3
of a new theme path, which is intended to strengthen the ecological awareness and to convey knowledge about the local plant and animal species. Generally the Upper Austrian Castle Museum focuses on the education and mediation work with children, young people and adults.
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Upper Austrian Castle Museum Reichenstein animation of the new museum building
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Theatre in historic ambiance
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The upper reaches of Waldaist
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Memorial slab of the Knight Christoph Haym
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The Upper Austrian Castle Museum conveys its contents to people of all ages
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Illustration original manuscript
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Painted gallery of the castle chapel
Tasting at the display fruit pressing Additionally to Castle Reichenstein Tragwein has other extensive offers for day trips: ranging from hiking tours in the countryside to leisure activities at the swimming pond. Finish the day with a relaxing break at a restaurant, café or cider tavern. The century-old rural cider farm Pankrazhofer has won awards several times. Here cider sommelier Norbert Eder refines pure apple and pear ciders and cuvees, as well as juices, sparkling wines, schnapps and liqueurs. During a tour with tasting visitors get to know the newly installed cider production plant and gain insight into the cellar. The tasting cellar is open Mon – Sat from 8 am to 12 and Fri also from 1 to 6 pm; the tavern periods are announced on the website (www.pankrazhofer.at) or, tasting appointments for groups, can be arranged by phoning: +43 7263 / 882 95. Cider however is not only a delicacy for adults. Pankrazhofer has launched a special innovation on the market – “Captain Twinkling”. The party drink for kids with a juice basis from directly pressed organic apples and pears with added organic herbs and carbonated spring water is particularly popular with young consumers. 5
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Waldburg G O T H I C C U LT U R A L P L E A S U R E
the church Saint Mary Magdalene (left) and Saint Catherine from Alexandria (right) stand on a base of finest gilded leafwork. The right side altar is dedicated to Saint Wolfgang and the one on the left to the martyr Saint Lawrence.
Three late Gothic winged altars are Waldburg’s historic-cultural jewel. Furthermore the two Gothic churches of St. Peter with their nearly unchanged appearance provide a special experience for art lovers seeking peace.
F
rom June to September sumptuous flower decorations will especially
The construction of a winged altar enabled different masters to present their ideal image of faith and beauty. Carvers, joiners, painters and sculpture painters worked with great commitment. They told the bible story or Acts of the Saints in their reliefs.
With its open wings the main altar in the
Two Gothic churches in St. Peter
church of Waldburg shows all its splendour
The heritage listed building, late Gothic
catch the eye of Waldburg’s visitors. After
and the rich variety of wood craft and sculp-
daughter church St. Peter with the Calvary
all, the small municipality may refer to itself
ture painting, which is characterized by the
Chapel is situated in the village Sankt Peter
as “the most beautiful village”. On the con-
lavish use of gold.
belonging to the community Waldburg.
trary the parish church looks rather modest
The church is at about three kilometres
from the outside. However, the place is of
In the shrine of the high altarpiece from
west of Freistadt on a hill and therefore well
special importance thanks to the three late
1517 are the three saintly women: Mary
visible from afar. It is dedicated to Apostles
Gothic altars inside.
with the child (centre), the patron saint of
St. Peter and St. Paul.
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High altar in the parish church Waldburg
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Daughter church St. Peter and Calvary church
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Historical viaduct of the horse-drawn railway from 1830
3
It was first mentioned in a document in
mini-agrimundus – the life of the farmers
1241, however it is presumed that the church was already founded in the 12th century and is therefore older than the city of Freistadt. The Calvary Chapel or the All-Saints-Chapel was donated in 1370 by Freistadt’s local nobility and is situated directly next to the church. The chapel was profaned under Joseph II and transformed into a barn. Only after a fire in 1834, did the inhabitants become aware of the chapel again and it was then renovated and sanctified. The chapel became the 12th station of the stations of the cross erected then. Phone: +43 7942 / 83 00 www.waldburg.at
A selection of over 100 miniatures true to the original from daily rural life can be seen in the Mini-Agrimundus in Waldburg. They lead the visitors through the “good old times” of farm life and work. The miniatures shown in the museum were made by Johann Hochreiter, a cartwright from Waldburg. The pleasure of work and love of detail stimulated Hochreiter to deal with miniatures. He started his passion with a small spinning wheel, then came a berry press, Haflinger horses and cart and gradually one object followed the other. The main objects of the miniature reproductions emanate from rural daily life in the 19th and 20th century. Farm carts and carriages, ploughs, harrows and agricultural machines and tools were used everywhere until the motorisation of agriculture. The modern, fast moving times however have suppressed numerous small craft enterprises in the country, such as wainwrights, blacksmiths and wagon builders. Visit the rural miniature museum upon request at the municipal office Waldburg by phoning: +43 7942 / 83 00.
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Windhaag EXPERIENCE FOREST LIFE
The forest in its dependencies, its function as an ecosystem, the different types of soil and indicator plants are treated as well as
Windhaag is a completely idyllic market town in northern Mühlviertel. The forest has characterized people’s lives throughout the centuries. The “Mühlviertler Waldhaus” nowadays explains to us its function in an entertaining way.
the growth of trees in symbiosis with fungi and root systems. This becomes especially alive in the dioramas with the forest habitats from riverside woodland to mountain forests with their specific fauna. Treasures in Waldhaus are the 80 year old moor spruce, the tree pit of a 450 years old primeval spruce and nine million year old fossilised
F
wood. A forest village shop, a forest pharour open-air museums open their
The “Mühlviertler Waldhaus” provides a
macy, a small arboretum as well as a house
windows onto the past in Windhaag
deep insight into the manifold forms of
and herb garden complete the permanent
bei Freistadt. Apart from the saw smithy
symbiosis in the forest. Starting from the
exhibition. As Windhaag has positioned
Hofwies, the Venetian saw Felbermühle
geological framework the “Mühlviertler
itself as an energy saving municipality, the
and the Leithenmühle it is especially the
Waldhaus” shows the wide range of the
Waldhaus presents also the special exhibi-
Waldhaus that combines the acquisition of
well-conceived ecosystem “forest” with
tion “Our way into an energy independent
knowledge and entertainment in a unique
its manifold forms, dependencies and
future”. The “Mühlviertler Waldhaus” is
way.
networks.
open daily from 1st May to 31st October.
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Mühlviertler Waldhaus
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Open air museum saw hammer Hofwies: Austria’s last saw hammer, dating back to the 16th century and still in operation until 1938.
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The weather shuttle on the continental divide by Gerhard Eilmsteiner
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Water wheel Leithenmühle
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The young Anton Bruckner The weather shuttle An art object and at the same time an indicator of a geographical speciality is the weather shuttle. It was installed on the European divide by the artist Gerhard Eilmsteiner in 1999. At first glance you will think of a giant pair of scales. About 15 litres of rain water move the five ton vehicle. The weather shuttle is situated between the villages Pieberschlag and Oberpaßberg and freely accessible. Phone: +43 7943 / 61 11 www.windhaag.at www.muehlviertler-waldhaus.at
His symphonies and church compositions count among the highlights of romantic music. Anton Bruckner was born close to Linz and is buried under the organ in St. Florian. The musician spent his young years as a teacher in Windhaag bei Freistadt. The “Windhaager Messe” was Anton Bruckner’s (1824–1896) first composition, which he dedicated to the wedding of the burgher’s daughter Maria Jobst. You will always remember your first place of work: This was also true for Anton Bruckner, who taught from October 1841 to January 1843 as an assistant to the teacher Franz Fuchs at the common school in Windhaag bei Freistadt. He often played with a couple of young music students at weddings or during carnival in the local inns for three kreutzer and his board. He played duets with Franz Sücka nearly every evening. The young “Toni” received a “substantial” breakfast and sometimes even the eagerly anticipated coffee as compensation from family Sücka.
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The holiday and excursion region in the heart of Mühlviertel Prague České Budějovice Kaplice Berlin Český Krumlov Passau Brussels Frankfurt a. M. Nuremberg Munich A8
Linz
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Wullowitz FREISTADT
A7
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A9
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A2
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Kernland
T O U R I S T I K M Ü H LV I E R T L E R K E R N L A N D 4240 Freistadt, Waaggasse 6, phone +43 7942 / 757 00, Fax: +43 732 / 72 77-9646 E-Mail: kernland@oberoesterreich.at, www.muehlviertler-kernland.at
Imprint: Responsible, owner, publisher Tourismusverband Mühlviertler Kernland, 4240 Freistadt, Waaggasse 6, photos: Archive TV Mühlviertler Kernland, OÖ Tourismus, Richard Schramm, Flora Fellner, Hermann Erber, Röbl, GC St. Oswald, Alexander Schneider, Simone Pysarczuk; concept/design: www.neudesign.at, translation: Angelika Altmann-Duschlbauer; Cartography: © CARTO.AT– Hafner, 2013, Topographic raw data: BEV © 2013 T2013/T98146; Print: Plöchl Druck GmbH, A-4240 Freistadt; Printed with 100% green electricity and mineral oil free inks on chlorine-free bleached paper; price basis 2013, the respective organizers are responsible for the correctness of the indicated prices, typesetting and printing errors excepted. Please understand that we have renounced using gender-specific wording in order to improve readability. Naturally women and men are addressed equally. Edition 2013