Sittersdorf can be explored through several distinct interests: a hike along a striking ridge, a small lake with a lido, evidence of sacred architectural history, and a longstanding wine tradition. This lets you choose the focus of your trip rather than limiting your stay to just one excursion.
Hiking, cycling and Lake Sonnegger See
The hike up Sittersdorfer Berg and Jegartkogel begins at the Schwarz farmstead, locally known as “Volina”. From there, it leads through a pine forest to the scenic, rocky ridge of Sittersdorfer Berg. Along the way, the route passes the “Reitluckn” cave and winds through rocky formations and open stretches of woodland. It reaches Jegartkogel, where views extend to the Steiner Alps, Hochobir and Klein Obir, the Jaun Valley and the Hohe Tauern. Forest, rock and far-reaching views give this tour its distinctive character.
If you prefer to explore by bike, the regional 6-Lake Tour makes for a full-day excursion. The family-friendly route is around 54 km long and loops around Lake Klopeiner See, Kleinsee, Lake Turnersee, Lake Gösselsdorfer See, Lake Sonnegger See and Lake Pirkdorfer See before returning. It covers a larger circuit of lakes and is not limited to Sittersdorf. As seasonal conditions can vary, it is advisable to check the latest conditions before setting off.
Lake Sonnegger See is in the municipality of Sittersdorf and covers approximately 1.7 hectares. The lido by the lake has a large sunbathing lawn, a water slide and a restaurant. The Acoustic Lakeside Festival is also based at Lake Sonnegger See and has been an established tradition since 2006. If you would like to plan your trip around a festival date, check the specific event dates in advance.
Churches, history and wine
Sittersdorf Parish Church/Žitara vas is Romanesque-Gothic in origin. It is surrounded by a wall and a Romanesque charnel house dating from the mid-12th century. St. Philippen ob Sonnegg/Št. Lipš Parish Church has a different building history: it is Romanesque in origin and was extended in the Baroque period. The Chapel of Saint Helena in Sittersdorf was first mentioned in 1154. These buildings offer different points of connection to the past, without requiring you to focus on just one historical period.
The region’s former transport and trading history is also part of its character: the historic road through Sittersdorf was part of the Salt and Iron Road. It ran from Völkermarkt via Eberndorf and Sittersdorf to Eisenkappel and over the Seebergsattel. Sittersdorf is also a member municipality of the Karawanken UNESCO Global Geopark. Along with the churches, this gives you the opportunity to include the region’s cultural and local history in your travel plans, as well as its natural attractions.
Wine is also part of the village’s history. Wine has been grown in Sittersdorf for centuries, and the tradition has been revived in recent times. Historically, Sittersdorf was the only place in Carinthia where “Sittersdorfer Rötel” wine was grown. At the wine festival held every September, you can sample wines from local vintners, including Zweigelt, Chardonnay and Cabernet. If the festival is a reason for your trip, check the specific event date in advance.
The different themes offer distinct ways to decide whether Sittersdorf is the right destination for you: the hike leads to Sittersdorfer Berg and Jegartkogel, the lake combines a scenic stop with the facilities mentioned above, and the wine and churches offer a way to discover the village’s history. Consider which focus suits your stay and choose Sittersdorf accordingly as a destination for nature, culture or wine tradition.
Discover more destinations: Wasserhofen, Gallizien, Sankt Kanzian Am Klopeiner See, Bleiburg, Völkermarkt, Globasnitz, Seelach, Kleindiex.
Return to the regional travel overview: Völkermarkt.
