If you’re planning an active exploration of Sankt Johann in der Haide, the 11 km Lafnitzau Circuit is a specific route option. Listed churches, an archaeological burial mound and a high proportion of woodland add to the picture of the municipality.
Forest, River and Activity
75% of the municipality’s area is forested. The Lafnitz forms the municipality’s unspoilt eastern boundary and, at the same time, the state border with Burgenland. The Lafnitzau Circuit, by contrast, follows the Lungitzbach stream and passes agricultural land. The landscape connections are therefore different: the Lafnitz marks the municipal boundary, while the Lungitzbach accompanies the route.
The circular walk is also suitable for jogging and Nordic walking. At 11 km long and starting at the railway station, it can be easily incorporated into your travel plans. The stream and agricultural land give the route a different landscape setting from the unspoilt Lafnitz at the municipal boundary.
Getting to the Lafnitzau Circuit
The Thermenbahn railway runs through the municipality and can be accessed at the “St. Johann in der Haide” stop. The Lafnitzau Circuit starts at St. Johann in der Haide railway station. The A2 Südautobahn, via the Hartberg exit, is another way to reach the route.
There are various points of reference for planning your journey: the stop provides access to the railway within the municipality, while the A2 exit provides access to the circular walk. If you’re planning to travel by train, check the current service to the stop in advance.
Churches and Archaeological Traces
The parish church of St John the Baptist in Sankt Johann in der Haide is protected as a listed monument by decree. A Roman stone is set into the church wall.
The burial mound from the Roman Imperial period in Sankt Johann in der Haide is also protected as an archaeological monument by decree. In Schölbing, within the municipality, the Mariae Opferung branch church is likewise protected by decree. Together, these places offer insight into different aspects of the municipality’s cultural heritage: a parish church with a Roman stone set into its wall, an archaeological monument and another protected church.
The Loreto Chapel of Mitterberg is located in the municipality of Sankt Johann in der Haide in Styria, in a forest clearing between Altenberg, Mitterberg and Unterrohr. The “Sternenwanderung” (Star Walk) of the three parishes still takes place at the chapel. If you plan to attend, check the current date before travelling.
Places to Enjoy and Scenic Views
ABC Park is next to the sports and leisure centre and is a public recreational facility. Children can explore the alphabet and nature there through play. If you plan to visit the park, check the latest access details beforehand.
Between Schölbing and Habersdorf is the wayside shrine and photo point, a place for all visitors to relax and unwind. An original Styrian bench made by Almholz stands there. The high-quality copper and larch frame, made by the Wilfinger joinery in Schölbing, frames the view of the landscape. The bench, its materials and the view make this a specific place to take a break.
The St. Johann in der Haide forest and sunbathing area is close to the forest and has many shady spots.
Discover more destinations: Sankt Magdalena am Lemberg, Neudau, Pöllauberg, Stubenberg, Penzendorf, Obertiefenbach, Pöllau, Ebersdorf bei Hartberg
Go to the regional travel overview: Hartberg-FĂĽrstenfeld.
