Those choosing Mönichkirchen for a stay can plan hiking, seasonal activities and culture according to their own interests. The Hochwechsel hike starts at the valley station of the chairlift in Mönichkirchen and leads via the Steinerne Stiege to the summit of the Hochwechsel. The Schaukelweg, by contrast, is an approximately 2.7-kilometre circular hiking trail that starts at the mountain station of the Sonnenbahn on the Mönichkirchner Schwaig. The hiking options therefore differ in their routes and destinations.
Hiking trails and views
There are 17 stations along the Schaukelweg, with various swings, seesaws and relaxation features. Its approximate length and circular route make it easy to get a sense of what to expect, while the stations give the trail its own theme. The Almschaukel viewing platform is also located on the Mönichkirchner Schwaig, at an altitude of 1,350 metres; from there, you can enjoy views across the Schwaig. Hiking is also possible on the alpine pastures on the Wechsel near Mönichkirchen.
The Wildbienenweg has a different focus: this connecting trail passes through around 2,000 square metres of flower meadows with shrubs, perennials and other plants. The trail also includes observation bee gardens and gardens where visitors can pick fruit. If you are looking for a circular route with additional stations instead of these nature-themed features, the Schaukelweg is a clearly defined alternative hiking destination. For a stop to eat on the circular trail to the Mönichkirchner Schwaig, options include the Berggasthof Mönichkirchner Schwaig and the Alpengasthof Enzian; check their opening hours separately.
Seasonal activities
In summer, the mountain cart track runs along a natural trail more than two kilometres long through woodland and meadows. In winter, other activities take centre stage: the Mönichkirchen-Mariensee ski area has 10 runs totalling 13.5 kilometres. Various ski tours are available at Erlebnisalm Mönichkirchen; at the Mariensee mountain station, there is also direct access to the Wechsel-Panoramaloipe cross-country ski trail. This trail connection is a separate option from the ski tours mentioned above. Erlebnisalm can be reached by car and public transport; winter operations are seasonal.
If you are looking for different courses instead of a hiking route, you can consider Hamari Climbing Park. It has 15 different courses, 104 stations and a 950-metre climbing route. The courses vary in height and difficulty; there are children’s courses for ages three and up.
Art, literature and water
The KunstMuseum Mönichkirchen “Schiff legt ab” (Ship Sets Sail) presents works by Christof Seiser and other artists. The “1000-HÜGEL-SCHACH” (1,000 Hills Chess) is also on display there. The Anton-Wildgans themed trail leads to places featured in the author’s work and introduces visitors to the characters and their real-life inspirations. Art and literature are therefore two distinct cultural themes to consider when choosing a destination.
Other visits offer different highlights: the Jenseitspark in Mönichkirchen features twelve sculptures. The Erzherzog-Johann-Modellpark includes miniatures of, among other things, the residences and places of activity of the Habsburgs. The water park with Salaërium focuses on “water and health” and allows visitors to experience the effects of water in various forms. The water park is also part of the “Lebenswasser” (Water of Life) themed trail, which leads from Mönichkirchen to the Mönichkirchner Schwaig.
Plan your journey
Mönichkirchen can be reached by public transport from Aspang-Markt railway station on route 371 to the Hotel Thier bus stop. Check the timetable before travelling. You can then include the journey in your plans and choose between hiking trails, seasonal activities and cultural attractions.
Discover more destinations
Schwarzau am Steinfeld, Aspangberg Sankt Peter, Sankt Corona Am Wechsel, Enzenreith, Reichenau An Der Rax, Breitenau, Warth, Klamm
For the overview of the wider region: Neunkirchen.
