In Gaflenz, you can shape your stay around culture or outdoor activities: the Sebaldus Trail reaches the town on its final stage, and there are marked routes nearby with different distances. You’ll also find churches on Heiligenstein and in the town, as well as seasonal cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities.
Sebaldus Church and church history
The Sebaldus Trail reaches Gaflenz on its final stage; on Heiligenstein, visitors stop at Austria’s only Sebaldus Church. The Sebaldus Church on Heiligenstein is the only church in Austria dedicated to Saint Sebald of Nuremberg. The Heiligenstein theme trail opened in 2013. At several stops in and around the church, you can learn more about the history of this mountain shrine, its significance as a pilgrimage site, and the work of Saint Sebald.
The chapel on Heiligenstein also has a long history: it was built in 1413, expanded into a church around 1470, and enlarged in the 16th century. Gaflenz Parish Church was built in the Early Gothic style, consecrated in 1140, and expanded in 1464. Gothic frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Mary were uncovered there in 1948/49. The architectural and artistic history of the churches therefore offers visitors different periods to explore.
Hiking trails with different route details
The Harreither Fitness Loop is a well-marked route of 7 or 10 kilometres that circles the town centre. The Sonnberg Trail (E02), by contrast, is described in terms of walking time: it takes 30 minutes and has 50 metres of elevation gain. It runs along gravel roads, forest paths and meadow trails. You can compare the two routes by their stated distances or by the time and elevation gain provided.
Other trails follow forest paths, mountain meadow trails, mountain roads and footpaths to interesting spots at elevations between 776 and 1,103 metres above sea level. The types of paths and elevations give you an idea of the kind of route you might want to focus on. If you’re looking for a loop with two distance options, consider the Harreither Fitness Loop; if you’re planning a short walk with a stated duration, see the details for the Sonnberg Trail.
Seasonal activities and practical planning
The Heiligenstein cross-country ski trail is suitable for both classic technique and skating and is 10 kilometres long in total. Of this, 2.5 kilometres are rated easy, 6.5 kilometres moderate and 1 kilometre challenging. Trail grooming depends on snow conditions. There are also many opportunities for snowshoeing in and around Gaflenz; snowshoes can be rented from the Ennstal National Park Region Tourism Association. Check rental availability before your trip.
The hike to Lehnereck involves a total elevation gain of 750 metres when combined with the additional ascent of Hirschkogel. Hiking conditions may change. At the 6a climbing hall, beginners can also take courses to get started with climbing as a health-promoting activity; ask directly about the courses on offer. These activities therefore differ not only by season, but also in their stated requirements and planning details.
A seasonal Sebaldus shuttle runs for guests hiking the Sebaldus Trail between GroĂźraming, Losenstein, Laussa, Maria Neustift, Gaflenz and Weyer. It transports guests between the trail stages and their accommodation. Check the timetable and booking conditions in advance. A snack station serves specialities made with produce from local farms, including cider, spirits and cured meat, as well as homemade pastries; it operates seasonally.
Discover more destinations: Garsten, Sankt Ulrich Bei Steyr, Laussa, Rohr Im Kremstal, Grossraming, Sierning, Dietach, Ternberg.
For the wider travel overview: Steyr-Land.
