Styria’s many contrasts captivate visitors. The country is mountainous, rough and fresh in the North, while the soft and hilly South is more inviting. The reason for Styria’s nickname „The Green Heart of Austria“ becomes very obvious in the region around Murau, which boasts deep rich forests, luscious green meadows and lush alluvial forests through which runs the emerald green river Mur. The many faces of Styria can be explored in different ways. Active holiday makers will find a wide range of possibilities like hiking and mountain tours, climbing routes or bike trips along the countless cycle paths, e.g. along the river Enns (Ennsradweg) or the river Mur (Murradweg). But Styria, with its beautiful landscapes and its culinary delights, is also the right holiday destination for those who are just seeking to unwind and relax. Lovers of culture will appreciate great sights such as the Benedictine Monastery in Admont, the Baroque Eggenberg Palace in Graz, the famous Lipizzaner stud Piber, the open-air-museum in Stübing near Graz, as well as little towns like Murau, which offer well-preserved historic city centres and interesting cultural attractions.
Country and People
Styrians are tradition-
conscious and therefore you can
find lots of lively customs like traditional
costume events, ceremonial cattle parades
or harvest festivals in autumn. People
are open-minded and like to express
how well they feel in their homeland. Visitors
can expect excellent service and
genuine hospitality.
Food and Drink
Styria’s culinary pleasures are very characteristic. Pumpkin oil, beetle bean salad, „Sterz“, which is a hard boiled corn mush, and chicken in breadcrumbs are some of the most famous Styrian specialities. You can enjoy excellent Styrian wine from small but exquisite regions, not only in snug wineries but also in every inn.
Climate
Styria is under the influence of the European transition climate, with a harsh alpine climate in the North and North-West of the country. Pannonian influences in the South and South-East create a warm and sunny climate. Styria’s climate is unique and varies considerably between the winter ski area and the sunny thermal-spring region, which is a wine-growing area. While you can still enjoy snow in the Dachstein mountain range, you will find blossoming spring flowers in southern Styria.
