Nächst Altenmarkt is part of the municipality of Yspertal. A defining feature of the landscape there is the Ysper Gorge, which has been a protected nature reserve since 1952. If you are weighing nature, culture or active pursuits when choosing where to stay, the different trails and sights in the Yspertal valley offer concrete points of reference.
The Ysper Gorge, mountain ridge and trails
In the Ysper Gorge, the Große Ysper plunges over waterfalls along a stretch of almost two kilometres, winds through narrow ravines and shapes rocky landscapes. Bridges, wooden walkways and steps lead through the ravines and past numerous waterfalls. The gorge and its waterways can thus be appreciated through their distinctive landscape features and the facilities along the trails.
The Großer Peilstein offers a different view of the landscape. At 1,061 metres, it is the highest peak of the Ostrong range; from there, the view stretches across the Weitental and Danube valleys as far as the Alps. The Yspertal Höhenstraße offers another option for cyclists: it is paved throughout and suitable for all bicycles. The Yspertal forest nature trail has a different focus: it leads to a forest playground and the forest chapel, and an information board describes the local flora and fauna.
Churches, museum and traditions
Pisching Parish Church is dedicated to Saint Urban, the patron saint of wine, and dates from 1533. Altenmarkt Parish Church – St Mary Magdalene brings together different building periods: it features Romanesque and early Gothic remains, a late Gothic main choir and a fully Baroque church tower. Inside are a signed penitent Magdalene by Paul Troger and a Stations of the Cross by Kremser Schmidt.
Wimburg Castle ruins on the Panorama Trail also have a historical connection: in the 13th century, they served as the widow’s residence of Queen Agnes. The castle’s tower and masonry are well preserved. The Yspertal local history museum tells the story of rural life in the 19th and early 20th centuries through agricultural and forestry tools, everyday objects and traditional crafts. The church, castle and museum thus offer different ways to explore architectural history and everyday life.
A particular tradition is associated with the Herzstein (Heart Stone). The five-metre-tall passage stone resembles an upright human heart. According to oral tradition and old folk beliefs, it is considered a dual-purpose site of worship for women. Passing through it is said to promote fertility and to shed illnesses, suffering, bad things and sins. This interpretation is part of the tradition and should be distinguished as such from the architectural and landscape features.
Activities for different interests
For climbing enthusiasts, the Yspertal climbing hall offers around 1,160 square metres of indoor climbing area, 36 belay lines and around 150 climbing and bouldering routes graded from 3 to 10. The Archery Yspertal 3D archery course, by contrast, focuses on the course and its targets: it is about four kilometres long and features 32 lifelike 3D animal targets. Rental equipment can be provided to groups of six or more with advance booking by phone.
Hoffmann riding stables offers pony rides for children aged two to nine. Yspertal indoor swimming pool focuses on warm indoor swimming, games and water-based fun, as well as relaxation options for the whole family. The two activities appeal to different interests: pony rides are restricted by age, while the indoor pool is described as a family-oriented swimming and water activity.
A specific accommodation address
Urlaub am Bauernhof – Familie Stockner is located at Nächst Altenmarkt 20, 3683 Yspertal. Younger guests staying at the property can enjoy a children’s playground, farm tours and tractor rides. These activities are reserved for guests of the accommodation; please confirm their current availability directly with the property.
Discover more destinations: Hofamt Priel, Laimbach Am Ostrong, Blindenmarkt, Pöggstall, Persenbeug, Braunegg, Dorfstetten, Mank
For the main travel overview: Melk.
