The Burgforstweg begins right in Oberdrauburg’s historic town centre and offers views of the market town, the mountains opposite, Hohenburg and Hochstadel. Hohenburg itself is situated on a hill north of the town; you can reach it on foot from the town centre in about 20 to 30 minutes. These are two different starting points for planning: a trail with several named viewpoints and a direct walking route to the castle.
Culture between the castle and the parish church
Hohenburg was first mentioned in historical records in 1375 and features Gothic and Renaissance elements. St. Oswald Parish Church brings together different stylistic influences: it was built from 1805 to 1812, has a late Baroque-classical design and a Gothic tower. The vault paintings are by Christoph Brandstetter and date from 1809. Those interested in comparing architecture will find different periods and design elements at the castle and the church.
Finds also offer a broader perspective beyond individual buildings. The accessible upper floor displays medieval finds from the ruins of Flaschberg and Hohenburg, as well as Roman excavations from Schrötelhofer Feld. These finds complement the architectural history with evidence from different periods and specific locations.
On foot, by bike and through the valley
The flat valley floor near Oberdrauburg is around 1 km wide and was formed by the Drau over millions of years. A well-developed network of hiking and cycling trails runs away from road traffic. So, alongside the Burgforstweg and its named viewpoints, there is a network for hiking and cycling tours across the valley floor.
The Drau Cycle Path also provides a wider context for planning a stage: its second stage runs from Lienz to Spittal an der Drau and passes through Flaschberg and Ă–tting on its way to Oberdrauburg. This places the town on a longer cycling route, while the local network includes hiking and cycling trails away from road traffic.
Floodplains, streams and birdlife
The extensive floodplain areas along the Drau and the Lauenbach streams form natural refuges for many rare plant and animal species amid cultivated farmland. The landscape therefore combines agricultural land with natural areas.
With a little luck and patience, you can spot kingfishers by the crystal-clear, fish-rich Lauenbach streams. For birdwatchers, this is a special but unpredictable opportunity. Vanni’s bird world offers a different way to explore the subject: the permanent exhibition features birds from the Alps and tropical rainforests, as well as from Europe, America, Africa, Asia and Oceania. If you plan to visit the exhibition, please check the latest visitor information beforehand, as operating details may change.
Climbing and the leisure pool
There are different climbing options to choose from: the climbing park in Oberdrauburg town centre is suitable for beginners and experienced climbers. The Pirknerklamm at the foot of Hochstadel offers a not-too-difficult gorge via ferrata with a climbing section beside a thundering rainbow waterfall.
Oberdrauburg leisure pool has a 58 m water slide, a mini slide for toddlers and a Kids River pool. From Oberdrauburg railway station, you can reach it on regional buses towards Unterberg or by walking a short distance. Check the information about seasonal opening before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Maltaberg, Radenthein, Tschierweg, Obervellach, Mörtschach, Berg Im Drautal, Rennweg Am Katschberg, Gmünd In Kärnten.
Back to the main travel overview: Spittal An Der Drau.
