Discover Burgau through its cultural history and routes across the landscape. Walking, cycling and hiking trails lead through extensive forests and the unspoilt Lafnitz floodplains. Other highlights include the former moated castle “Burg in der Au,” the pilgrimage church of Maria Gnadenbrunn, and opportunities for exercise and spending time by the water. If you would like to choose a focus for your trip, you can opt for nature trails, architectural history, pilgrimages or swimming facilities.
Walking and Cycling Routes Around Burgau
There are eight walking routes to choose from, each clearly marked with colour-coded signs and varying in length and trail conditions. So when comparing them, distance is not the only consideration: the surface of each route is also part of choosing a tour. The cycling routes around Burgau are also very well signposted, but vary in difficulty. The two offerings can therefore be assessed based on the characteristics specified for each, without implying that all routes offer the same kind of tour. As route details can change, it is advisable to check the latest route information before setting out on a particular tour.
Two named cycling routes provide a clear reference for planning: the EURO VELO 9 European Cycle Route passes through Burgau. The Thermenland Cycle Route from Mönichkirchen to Bad Radkersburg also runs through the town. If you are on a longer cycling trip, you can include Burgau as a stop along these routes; the varying difficulty levels of the cycling routes remain a separate factor when choosing a tour.
Moated Castle and Historical Landmarks
The former moated castle “Burg in der Au” was first mentioned in official records in 1367, under the rule of the Lords of Puchheim. The moated castle hosts numerous exhibitions and guided tours throughout the year. If you have a particular tour or exhibition in mind, it is worth checking the latest dates in advance.
The castle’s rooms are also used for events: its vaulted cellar, grand ballroom and inner courtyard with arcaded vaulting host cultural events, weddings and conferences. The history of the building and its current uses for events offer different ways to engage with the site. Near Burgau, a faithfully reconstructed Tschartake also stands on the Kuruzzen hiking trail. This border guard’s house adds a tangible historic building along the trail.
Pilgrimage Church and Recurring Events
The pilgrimage church of Maria Gnadenbrunn in Burgau houses a carved Madonna dating from around 1420/1430. The church’s Gothic building was destroyed by the Hungarians in 1418. The dates therefore refer to two different historical details: the destruction of the building and the Madonna’s dating.
The pilgrimages follow two different schedules. Every August, a pilgrimage sets out from Burgau for Mariazell. A pilgrimage is also held at the church every year from May to October, on the 13th day of each month. If one of these events is important to your travel plans, check the relevant date in advance.
Swimming, a Fishing Pond and Nature Experiences
Schlossbad Burgau features a quartz-filtered natural pond, a modern swimming pool and a non-swimmers’ pool, as well as a children’s pool. Other facilities include SUP boards, pedal boat hire and a beach volleyball court. The range of activities offers different ways to enjoy the water, while the walking and cycling routes focus on other forms of exercise.
Ziegelteich Burgau is a 2.5-hectare fishing pond. The fish species listed there include carp, tench, white fish, perch, pike and zander. If you are planning to visit the pond to fish, check the current fishing regulations, as they may change. Excursions and events organised by the Burgau Biological Association also focus on experiencing nature. Alongside the trails through the forests and Lafnitz floodplains, there are further ways for visitors interested in nature to explore the area.
Discover more destinations: Geiseldorf, Grafendorf Bei Hartberg, Kaibing, Pöllau, Schildbach, Fürstenfeld, Ilz, Ebersdorf Bei Hartberg.
Return to the broader travel overview: Hartberg-FĂĽrstenfeld.
