The Way of the Cross between Edelsbach and Wetzelsdorf and the Planet Trail through Wetzelsdorf offer two clearly distinct hiking themes. Distance and character can help you choose: one follows the old church path, passing stations on the way to Dornhofer Chapel; the other stretches from the Sun to Pluto. Other points of interest include sports, the history of the village chapel, and the astronomical facilities at Auersbach Observatory. You can tailor your stay to one of these trails or another interest.

Two trails, two focal points

The Way of the Cross follows the old church path and was redesigned in 1998. It has 14 stations and covers two kilometres on foot, from Edelsbach Parish Church to Dornhofer Chapel. This clearly specifies the starting point, destination, and distance. Conditions along the route can vary seasonally; check them before setting out if you plan to include the walk in your day.

The Auersbach Planet Trail passes through Wetzelsdorf in the direction of Kleinwalkersdorf. It is 5.9 kilometres long, from the Sun to Pluto—considerably longer than the Way of the Cross at two kilometres. The routes also differ in theme: the Way of the Cross centres on 14 stations between the parish church and Dornhofer Chapel, while the Planet Trail stretches from the Sun to Pluto. If distance is your main consideration, this direct comparison offers clear guidance.

Auersbach Observatory

Auersbach Observatory was built in 2001. It has two domes, five and three metres in diameter, and two Meade telescopes, 16 and 12 inches. At the observatory, an observation point at an elevation of 380 metres offers the chance to see a sundial and a stone circle modelled on Stonehenge. The domes and telescopes provide a different focus from the sundial and stone circle: here, technical equipment meets a thoughtfully designed observation-point theme.

Sports Area and Village Chapel

The “Die Wies’n” sports area extends from the multi-purpose hall in Wetzelsdorf past the football pitch to the adventure playground. The disc golf course on the grounds has eight holes. Unlike the two walking routes, the focus here is on the combination of different facilities in one area. The number of holes also gives a concrete indication of what the disc golf course offers.

Wetzelsdorf Village Chapel is located at Wetzelsdorf 83, 8330 Feldbach. Construction began in 1935, and the chapel was consecrated to the Holy Cross on 10 May 1936. These dates distinguish the start of construction from the later consecration and give the chapel a clear historical connection. Together with the Way of the Cross, which ends at Dornhofer Chapel, it offers another way to explore local history.

Melbinger Winegrowing & Vine Nursery

Melbinger Winegrowing & Vine Nursery has a tasting room and a sales room for its customers. Since visiting arrangements can change, it is best to enquire before planning a visit.

Discover more destinations: Reiting, Weinburg Am Saßbach, Hürth, Oberrakitsch, Weitersfeld An Der Mur, Stang Bei Hatzendorf, Gemeinde Murfeld, Mureck.

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