Kirchberg am Wechsel lies in the heart of the Feistritz Valley, surrounded by green fields and forests. Visitors choosing this destination for a stay will find a range of highlights: ecclesiastical art and history, a cave with a remarkable bat population, scenic viewpoints, and several hiking and cycling routes. The annual Wittgenstein Symposium also features on the events calendar.
Ecclesiastical Art and History
The parish church of Kirchberg am Wechsel is a plain, imposing Baroque brick building. It is 42 metres long and 26 metres wide, and its spire reaches a height of 45 metres. Its high altar was not originally made for this church: in 1790, it was purchased from the deconsecrated Frauenkirche in Baden. The parish church thus brings together its own architecture and an altar from elsewhere.
The church’s furnishings include several side altars: the Erhardi, Frauen, Marien, Anna and Kreuz altars. There is also a late Gothic Pietà and magnificent gilded statues. Another church worth visiting is the Wolfgangskirche, a Gothic church high above Kirchberg am Wechsel and a landmark of the Feistritz Valley. On Kalvarienberg, small chapels depict the Mysteries of the Sorrowful Rosary. The museum mill at Molzbach shows how grain is turned into bread. Together, these attractions span everything from sacred art to the journey from grain to bread.
Caves, Views and Scenery
The Hermannshöhle has been a natural monument since 1931 and is home to a total of 17 bat species. The Kernstockwarte offers a different perspective on the landscape: the lookout tower stands at an altitude of 852 metres on Wolfenkogel, with views across the Wechsel region. The tower is easily accessible from the centre of Kirchberg via hiking trails and forest roads. The two destinations offer different highlights: the cave is notable for its bat species and protected status as a natural monument, while the tower offers views across the region.
Hiking and Cycling
The routes have different starting points. The Dorfrunde begins right in the village centre, at the hiking trail starting point in front of the municipal office. The Schwaigen circular trail to Hochwechsel, by contrast, starts at Steyersberger Schwaig in the municipality of Kirchberg am Wechsel. To reach the Saurücken hiking trail by public transport, take the train to Gloggnitz station and then regional bus 367 to the Köck stop. Check connections before travelling.
The Wiener Alpen cycling loop also passes through Kirchberg am Wechsel. Here, it follows the regional road past the Hermannshöhle towards Rams. If you would like a guided hike, you can enquire at a hiking tour operator or the Kirchberg Tourist Office. Confirm availability in advance.
Events and Seasonal Activities
Since 1976, the Austrian Ludwig Wittgenstein Society has held annual symposia in Kirchberg am Wechsel. The events discuss Wittgenstein’s philosophy as well as current issues in philosophy, science and society. This recurring event gives the town a focus that extends beyond its churches and landscape.
The Kirchberg am Wechsel solar-heated outdoor pool has a water slide, a beach volleyball court, a baby pool and a snack bar. It operates seasonally, so check opening dates before planning a visit. Alongside cultural and scenic attractions, there are also activities with a clear seasonal focus.
Discover more destinations: Tratten, Edlitz, Zöbern, Puchberg am Schneeberg, Klamm, Feistritz am Wechsel, Sankt Corona am Wechsel, Trattenbach
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