In Hatzendorf, church art and theatre tradition meet three trails, each with its own focus. When planning your visit, you can choose whether to focus on cultural history, modern art in the landscape or beekeeping and nature.
Culture between the high altar, theatre and early settlement
The high altar of Hatzendorf Parish Church was created in 1753 by sculptor Franz Domiscus from Gnas. The work is a specific historical point of reference for anyone interested in religious art and the town’s cultural character.
A much earlier period takes us to the Grazbach Valley: this valley, whose favourable climate is due to its location on the eastern side of the Riegersburg basalt outcrop, was already settled in the Early Hallstatt period. This settlement context dates back long before the high altar and the more recent history of theatre, adding an early historical perspective to the later cultural references.
Theatre in Hatzendorf has been running since 24 February 1924. Since 1986, the children’s theatre has given nine- to ten-year-old children the opportunity to perform with a stage, lighting and a make-up artist. The two aspects are clearly distinct: a long theatre tradition sits alongside the opportunity for children to take part on stage themselves.
The Vinegar and Oil Festival is also part of Hatzendorf’s cultural calendar and takes place every two years. If you would like to plan your trip around the festival, check the specific event dates before making your plans.
Three trails with their own distinct focuses
The Art Panorama Trail combines modern artworks with views of Hatzendorf. Since 2009, 15 works have lined the trail. It follows a ridge encircled by 360-degree panoramas. The trail therefore brings together two different perspectives: art along the route and sweeping views of the surrounding area.
Bees and their role in nature take centre stage on the Beekeepers’ Mile. The Hatzendorf Beekeeping Association and information boards from the Austrian Beekeepers’ Association explain their importance. The route also passes along field margins and through partly wooded areas; there are repeated views of Riegersburg along the way.
It is also possible to travel to this route by train: get off at Hatzendorf station and walk about 300 metres to the trail marker by Hotel Restaurant Malerwinkl. Check the train connection and trail marker before setting off.
The GlĂĽcksweg Hatzendorf trail leads through the village centre, woodland and meadows along streams. Unlike the two more thematically focused trails, it highlights a variety of landscape sections. Choose your route according to your interests: modern art and panoramas, beekeeping and views, or the village centre, woodland and streams.
Practical information
If you would also like to explore the connection with bees through local food, honey products are available at the farm shop of the Agricultural College or at Malerwinkl. Check opening arrangements before your visit.
A free cycling and hiking map is available from the Hatzendorf Citizens’ Service Office. It can help you find your way when exploring cycling and hiking routes; check in advance whether it will be available during your visit.
Discover more destinations: Studenzen, Kapfenstein, Jagerberg, Gnas, Fehring, Riegersburg, Unterlamm, Kirchberg an der Raab.
Back to the regional travel overview: Feldbach.
