Großsölk Castle combines a museum with the Sölk Jesuit Garden. There are also topics related to Ennstal Styrian cheese and a variety of hiking destinations. When planning your trip, it helps to distinguish between these highlights: culture and cheese-making traditions offer a different focus from trails at Sölk Pass, and you should check the participation requirements for seasonal activities in advance.
Castle, Garden and History
Großsölk Castle was built in the 14th century and historically played an important role in the old trade routes across Sölk Pass. Two distinct aspects are therefore at the heart of its story: the history of the building and its former importance to trade across the pass. The castle houses a museum and the Sölk Jesuit Garden.
The garden is located in the inner courtyard and is recognized as an educational and show garden. Together with the museum, it offers different ways to explore the castle: one is a garden with educational and exhibition purposes, the other a museum visit. If you are interested in both cultural history and landscaped gardens, you can include both in your plans.
Ennstal Styrian Cheese and Seasonal Experiences
The permanent exhibition “Gold of the Alpine Pastures” explores the history and tradition of Ennstal Styrian cheese from the Middle Ages to the modern era. Its subject goes beyond a single method of production: the exhibition spans a long period of history centered on the cheese. It is particularly well suited to a stay that makes room for regional food culture alongside the castle’s history.
The Ennstal Alpine Pasture Diploma experience includes baking Krapfen (traditional doughnuts) using an old Alpine pasture recipe. The program starts at the Schloss Großsölk Nature Park House. It is seasonal, and participation details may change. If you would like to include this experience in your plans, check the current dates and participation requirements in advance.
St. Leonhard Church and Architectural History
St. Leonhard Church was created in 1743 by converting a former stately stable belonging to the noble castle owners. According to its inscription, the high altar dates back to 1686. The dates therefore refer to different details: 1686 to the altar, and 1743 to the conversion of the stable into a church. Under Austrian monument protection law, the Catholic parish church is a protected monument.
Hiking Trails and Scenery
The Strub hike near Großsölk Castle leads to the confluence of the Großsölkbach and Kleinsölkbach streams. Its destination is therefore a specific point in the landscape. The geological trail offers a different focus: it runs around Gumpekar at the foot of Gumpeneck and provides views of the Niedere Tauern and the Northern Limestone Alps.
Many hiking trails at Sölk Pass lead into a protected area for alpine flowering plants. Those interested in this plant life will find a distinct nature-focused experience here. Another option is the forest trail to Schönwetterhütte, which is open and staffed during the summer. Since it operates seasonally, it is a good idea to check availability before setting out.
Driving Across Sölk Pass
Sölk Pass can be crossed by car via a road that has been open to traffic since 1959 and is toll-free. Check road conditions and seasonal access before your drive. When choosing accommodation, consider whether the castle and cheese-making traditions or the hiking destinations will be the main focus of your stay; this will help you plan around the interests that matter to you.
Discover more destinations: Gstatterboden, Landl, St. Leonard, Pruggern, Strimitzen, Sankt Martin Am Grimming, Gröbming, Geiergraben.
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