This is a great little hike just 20 mins from Graz with beautiful views for not too much effort. It’s only 2.7 km long and 170 m elevation climb. The whole family can do this, although it is a little steep in parts coming back down. The trail goes up a wide path through the woods to several clearings at the top with views across to the Schöckl on one side and across Graz on the other. After a rest top at the Novystein obelisk, the trail comes back down through the woods and a final few minutes along the road back to the start. About an hour round trip non stop. There are benches to sit on at the top.
The hike starts at the Scheiklhof Buschenschank (Hohenbergstrasse 8 8061 St. Radegund). After parking, follow the road back to the intersection where you’ll see the yellow posts – you will be following 27 b Novystein route (left hand path in the photo).
Follow the wide path up through the woods
Look out for a smaller trail leading off to the right where the main path / forest road curves around to the left. (You’ll see the Austrian flag symbol on the trees here).
Follow the now smaller trail up through the woods until you reach other set of yellow sign posts (about 20 mins from the start), and turn off to the right following 27b Novystein. Only ten minutes to the top from here!
You’ll start to see some lovely glimpses of Graz
Then as you come around the corner to the top of the ridge, you’ll see a great view of the Schöckl (be careful with small children – there are some steep drops here). There is also a convenient bench to admire the view from or sit small children on to stop them throwing themselves off the edge 🙂
Continuing on along the path you will come in a few minutes to the Novystein obelisk, with three more convenient benches (safe for kids to run and play here).
This is turning point of the hike, you will now continue downhill following route 28 Kreuzberg to the left. Although it’s also nice to explore the right hand trail for a few minutes to see the views across Graz and over to the mountains beyond (photos below) before turning back to carry along route 28 down the hill.
(It gets a little sleep here for small children). Follow the Austrian flags marked on the trees until you see another yellow sign post, and take the #28 trail to the right to Kreuzberg.
Some guided help here!
You’ll come out into a big meadow (more great views!)
Follow the path down to the road, and turn right to carry on for a few minutes returning to the cross roads and Scheiklhof Buschenschank.
There is a nice playground here, plus more good views.
