Discover Gitschtal: Trails, Nature and Culture

Gitschtal lies between Weißensee and Nassfeld. If you are looking for a destination with different options for planning your days, you will find nature trails, cycling routes, churches and regional food culture here. The attractions range from a limestone tufa gorge to historic buildings and an event celebrating cabbage.

Trails and activities in Gitschtal

Weißenbachklamm is a limestone tufa gorge. Secured ladders and walkways make it easier to get around, although seasonal conditions may still play a role. For a cycling tour, the Gitschtalradweg R3b runs from Weißbriach via St. Lorenzen and Jadersdorf, as well as other places, to Hermagor.

When considering the Reißkofel routes, it is worth looking at the destination and requirements of each one. The Reißkofel Route from Weißbriach follows the Gailtaler Höhenweg 229 to Napalnalm. This is distinct from the Reißkofel summit route, which reaches an elevation of 2,371 metres and requires alpine experience and sure-footedness. These requirements should be taken into account when planning this summit hike.

Hikers have access to a 200-kilometre network of hiking trails in Gitschtal. A dedicated nature trail in Gösseringgraben invites you to explore the area. You can also discover traces of the region’s mining past there: hikes through Gösseringgraben reveal relics, supplemented by brief explanations of ore processing.

Gitschtal also has options for cross-country skiers. As trail grooming is seasonal, check the latest information for your travel dates. Another activity with farming roots is Bergbauerngolfen: the holes draw on everyday life on a farm and are imaginatively decorated with farming implements.

Churches and architectural history

Weißbriach is home to several churches, each with its own construction period and features. The Evangelical Church of Weißbriach was built between 1882 and 1886. Its elaborately decorated, carved altar was designed based on plans by Theophil Frey. St. Johann zu Weißbriach is considered probably the oldest church in Gitschtal; its historic features include a bell dating from the 15th century.

The parish church of Weißbriach is a Late Gothic building dating from around 1520. Its wall paintings date from 1616 and 1620. The Catholic Church of St. Lorenzen provides another contrast in age: its Gothic choir appears to have been completed as early as 1527, while the Neo-Gothic nave and other sections were added largely in the second half of the 19th century. These dates show just how different the churches’ construction phases in the valley are.

Regional food culture and the seasons

Kohlröslhütte is a popular destination for an outing, offering delicious food and panoramic views. Check its seasonal opening arrangements before your visit so that your plans suit your travel dates. Under Gitschtal’s local food concept, the region is the source of the products and ingredients, as well as the place where they are crafted and created.

Gitschtaler Krautfest traditionally takes place on the first Sunday in October. Its food programme includes cabbage dishes such as cabbage lasagne and cabbage pizza, as well as sweet specialities. The festival adds a distinctive feature alongside the hiking, cycling and cultural attractions available throughout the year.

Travel planning information

A public transport timetable is available for the Hermagor–Weißbriach–Weißensee connection. If you are including this route in your plans, check the timetable before travelling, as details may change. Together, the routes, buildings and regional attractions mentioned here offer a range of ways to shape your stay in Gitschtal around your own travel interests.

Discover more destinations: Liesch, Podlanig in Lesachtal, Maria Luggau, Mellweg, Tröpolach, Hermagor-Pressegger See, Kirchbach, Dellach.

Go to the main travel overview: Hermagor.