Strassen combines a distinctive history of church art with a nature focus at the Tassenbach reservoir. Cycling is another way to explore the area: the Drau Cycle Path runs through the municipality, alongside several mountain-bike routes. When planning your stay, you can choose between architectural and art history, nature, and outdoor activities.

Churches and their architectural history

The parish church of St James the Apostle offers a starting point for exploring the area’s architectural history. A chapel dedicated to St James the Elder on the hill where today’s parish church stands was first documented in 1293. The church was rebuilt in the Gothic style in 1455. Its artworks include a fresco cycle painted by Leonhard von Brixen between 1458 and 1460. These dates trace the story from the chapel’s early mention, through the Gothic rebuilding, to the 15th-century frescoes.

The branch church of the Holy Trinity displays a different architectural style. Construction of the present building began in 1763, after the previous chapel had been demolished down to its foundations. The round building has eight massive wall piers and a large circular dome. In 1768, Brixen court painter Franz Anton Zeiller decorated the dome with frescoes. In contrast to the parish church, which was rebuilt in the Gothic style, the round structure and dome define the impression here. The construction and decoration took place five years apart, marking two successive stages in the architectural history.

Nature at the Tassenbach reservoir

The Tassenbach reservoir is notable for its water features and wildlife. The reservoir was designed to blend with nature, like a small lake with bays and an island. It is an important refuge for rare animal species and the only major stopover for migratory birds in this part of the region. More than 150 different bird species have already been spotted there.

A nature trail with information boards describes the animals and plants found there. The area’s nature focus is not limited to birdlife: the boards also cover the local flora. Visitors interested in nature and wildlife when choosing where to stay will find a different focus here than at the churches. The landscaped bays and island are also part of the reservoir’s character, along with its importance as a refuge and stopover for animals.

Cycling in Strassen

The Drau Cycle Path runs through the municipality of Strassen towards Lienz and on in the direction of Carinthia. The route is recommended for families with children and beginner cyclists. Several varied mountain-bike routes add to the cycling options. There are options for different cycling interests: the Drau Cycle Path leads towards Lienz and Carinthia, while the mountain-bike routes offer a separate selection. The recommendation for families and beginner cyclists applies to the Drau Cycle Path. Details of individual mountain-bike routes may change; check the latest information before setting out.

Getting around and return journeys

There is a railway stop in Tassenbach, within the municipality of Strassen. From Tassenbach, you can also return by bus or train in the direction of Arnbach or Sillian. If you plan to use this option, check the timetable for your travel date.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Nikolsdorf, Matrei in Osttirol, Huben in the Ötztal, Ainet, Tristach, Hinterbichl, Prägraten am Großvenediger, St. Johann im Walde.

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