Niklasdorf lies right on the Mur Cycle Path and at the foot of the Mugel hiking area. This brings together a cycling route and mountain destinations when choosing where to go: options include a mountain bike trail to the mountain hut, a hike with views across three valleys, and ski touring in winter. There is also a destination for a day out in the town centre: the outdoor swimming pool on the Mur. The town’s history is reflected in the Old Parish Church and a water tower bearing a distinctive label.
Mugel: Cycling, hiking and winter activities
The Mugel stands at an elevation of 1,630 m in the heart of the Gleinalm range. An official mountain bike trail leads from Niklasdorf to the Mugel mountain hut. It is 10 km long and has an elevation difference of 1,100 m. Both figures are important for understanding the route: the kilometre figure gives the distance, while the elevation difference adds a second dimension to the tour.
A hiking trail leads from Niklasdorf to the Mugel, offering views of the Mur, MĂĽrz and Vordernberg valleys. Another route option is the 10th stage of the Styrian Iron Trail: it runs from Niklasdorf over the Mugel to Leoben and continues directly into the city centre. The Mugel is also a destination for different seasons; in winter, it is suitable for ski touring.
The annual Mugel mountain run also has its own finish point: it runs from Niklasdorf to the J.-Hans-Prosl mountain hut. The mountain bike trail, by contrast, ends at the Mugel mountain hut. This distinction is useful when planning tours or events based on their respective destinations.
The Mugel mountain hut has more than 50 beds for overnight stays. If you plan to spend a night there, check availability for your travel dates in advance. The annual Bauernsilvester celebration also takes place at the Mugel mountain hut on 30 December from 2 p.m. Check the date and start time again before travelling.
Outdoor swimming pool and town centre
Niklasdorf outdoor swimming pool is in the town centre, right on the Mur. From there, you can enjoy views of the river, the parish church and the town hall. Facilities include a 50 m long slide and a baby pool. This adds a town-centre destination to the cycling and mountain activities; the views mentioned bring the river and the townscape together in the pool’s surroundings.
Church history and water tower
A papal bull issued by Pope Eugene III in 1148 mentions a church in Michilindorf. The Old Parish Church in Niklasdorf is a listed monument under an ordinance. A fire in 1480 destroyed its wooden roof structure and sacristy. An inscription found during restoration work in 1837 led to the conclusion that the church was rebuilt in 1499.
A water tower bearing what is probably the world’s largest label is also located in Niklasdorf. The label was designed in 1998 for the celebration of Niklasdorf’s elevation to market town status and the town’s 850th anniversary, by Georg Brandner together with Brigl & Bergmeister and the Niklasdorf municipal administration. Together with the history of the Old Parish Church, this work offers a very different perspective on the town from the routes towards the Mugel.
Discover more travel destinations: Hieflau, Leoben, Radmer, Trofaiach, Gai, Eisenerz, Vordernberg, Proleb
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