The NÖ Eisenwurzen Nature Park is located entirely within the municipality of Hollenstein an der Ybbs. Its hiking trails and nature discovery routes are open year-round and free of charge. This gives the area a combination of nature experiences and hiking options for different abilities—from a short, easy walk to a moderately challenging tour.

Choose hiking trails by distance and character

The Schaueck hike, also known as the Spitzhiatl Challenge, is a family-friendly trail in the Eisenwurzen Nature Park. Another short tour is the 1000 Schritte trail: it is rated easy, is 2.51 kilometers long and takes 45 minutes. The starting point is the municipal parking lot. As route information may change, it is best to check the distance and walking time locally before setting out.

Several other trails can also be distinguished by their stated length and character. The Willi-Gruber Trail is an easy 2.24 kilometers long and offers views of the town and the church. The Kalchauersteig, also rated easy, leads 3.62 kilometers out of town and back. Salcher-Unterkirchen is an easy, 5.21-kilometer walking route suitable for strollers. Those looking for a longer route in a quiet, wooded setting can take the 5.85-kilometer Naturfreundesteig, a moderately challenging tour.

For panoramic views of Hollenstein, consider the hike to Schaumauer. The KURZ panoramic route offers views over the Ybbstal valley. These trails each have a different focus: views of the town, views into the valley, or a wooded route. Check local trail conditions before setting out.

Nature Park and Ybbstal Cycle Path

Dry habitats and fens make the Eisenwurzen Nature Park a refuge for an especially wide variety of orchids. Three-toed woodpeckers and black storks are also found there. Along with its network of trails, these habitats and species give the nature park a distinct focus on nature and wildlife observation.

The Ybbstal Cycle Path also passes through Hollenstein an der Ybbs: the route between Waidhofen an der Ybbs and Lunz am See goes through the town. In total, it connects the Danube with Lake Lunz over 111 kilometers. If you are including the cycle path in your plans, check for current route information in advance.

Cultural history and special places

The village of Hollenstein an der Ybbs itself developed into a small, growing settlement in the 15th century, as the iron industry expanded. Another historical landmark is the rock nativity scene at the foot of Königsberg. It was created in a large cave following a rockslide in the spring of 2006. The cave houses hand-painted, life-size figures; the rock nativity scene was later expanded with a nativity trail.

The demonstration forge at Treffenguthammer is open during the summer months of July and August on Wednesdays from 18:00 to 20:00. As this is a seasonal offering, check the schedule for the current year before visiting. The Hollenstein Herb and Adventure Garden at Königsberg combines the natural surroundings of the forest with a well-maintained experience garden, adding a dedicated garden visit to the hiking and nature offerings.

A winter option at Königsberg

The Königsberg ski area near Hollenstein is one of the options available during the colder months. It has four drag lifts, a children’s lift and a total of 14 kilometers of ski runs. If you are planning a winter visit, check the latest information on lifts and runs. Depending on your interests, you can combine a visit to Hollenstein with hiking trails, the nature park, cultural history or a day of skiing.

To the overview of the larger destination: Amstetten.