A Paradise for Nature and Sports Enthusiasts
The Sierningtal-Flatzer Wand Nature Park covers approximately 15 km² in the municipality of Ternitz and offers a diverse recreational area for visitors of all ages. The landscape is characterized by gentle, forested hills rising from 415 m to 898 m above sea level. Due to its location at the transition from the Pannonian to the Alpine climate, the nature park is home to an extraordinary diversity of flora and fauna worthy of protection.
Geology and Natural Landmarks
The subsoil, composed of Wetterstein limestone, favors the formation of numerous karst caves—over 60 are known to exist in the park. Some of these are accessible and of archaeological or paleontological significance. Of particular note is the Langes Loch cave with its impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. Other natural landmarks include the imposing Fleischesser pine, the “armchair trees” with their candelabra-like growth, and the Warme Lucke, a rock niche from which warm air flows.
Recreation and Infrastructure
The nature park offers around 50 km of marked hiking trails that invite visitors to enjoy varied hikes. Geocaching, a small animal enclosure, and numerous display and information boards along the trails provide additional experiences. For refreshments and rest, visitors can stop at the Sierningtal Nature Park Hut (run by the D’Steinfelder Mountaineering Guild), the Neunkirchen Nature Friends House on the Flatzer Wand, and various inns and Taverns in the surrounding area.
Sports Highlights
The Flatzer Wand is considered an insider’s tip for sport climbers: Over 300 climbing routes of varying difficulty levels, as well as numerous bouldering and via ferrata options, offer ideal conditions for beginners and pros alike.
Sights in the Area
In addition to the natural landmarks, the medieval Stixenstein Castle and the observation tower at Gfieder are well worth a visit. From the observation tower, you can enjoy an impressive panoramic view stretching from the Schneeberg over the Hochwechsel to the Rosalien Mountains.
