Hohenthurn – Culture, Nature and Winter Sports

Hohenthurn offers several distinct points of interest to help you plan your trip. The branch church, Derter Platte, the Marien pilgrimage route and the Hrast ski area represent cultural history, archaeological evidence, a described hiking approach and winter activities. If you are looking for a hotel in Hohenthurn, these themes can help you decide what you would like to focus on during your stay. The options range from architectural history and monument protection to landscapes and sports facilities whose operation depends on the weather.

Culture and Monument Protection

Hohenthurn branch church dates from the Gothic period; its high altar is a work from the late 17th century. This means that two distinct historical periods come together in a single named building: the era to which the church is attributed and the later date when the altar was created. Those interested in architectural history can distinguish between these periods rather than assuming the church and high altar date from the same time. The difference in dates clearly illustrates the distinction between the age of a building and the dating of an individual work of art.

The Derter Platte area in the Dreulacher Moos is home to a Celtic burial mound site. In the 2024 monument inventory, the settlement and burial mounds at Derter Platte are listed as protected by an official decision. Gailitz Bridge in Stossau is listed in the same inventory as protected by ordinance. This highlights different kinds of historical reference points: the settlement and burial mound site at Derter Platte, and the bridge in Stossau. The stated forms of protection also differ: an official decision for the settlement and burial mounds, and an ordinance for Gailitz Bridge. This allows archaeological evidence and a protected structure to be considered as distinct cultural themes.

Derter Platte and the Landscape

Derter Platte is also a habitat for numerous rare plants and animals. The burial mound site and the diversity of species offer two ways of viewing the same area: from an archaeological perspective and from a nature-focused one. If you would like to take both cultural history and nature into account when choosing your destination, Derter Platte offers a specific point of reference. Your interest need not be limited to the site’s historical significance; its habitat is also one of its notable features.

Hiking Routes and Winter Activities

The Marien pilgrimage route offers a different perspective. The approach to Hohenthurn along the route first leads through the forest and then opens up to views of the Dobratsch massif and the Carnic Alps. The route has a clear sequence: first the forest, followed by views of two named mountain ranges. This gives you a specific hiking option to consider when planning your trip, alongside the cultural and nature-related themes. Unlike the branch church or the burial mounds, the focus here is not on a single structure, but on the transition from forest to open views.

At the Hrast ski area, there is a cross-country ski trail up to 2.7 kilometres long, two ski runs and an ice rink. Start by choosing the activity you prefer: cross-country skiing, downhill skiing or ice skating. The stated maximum length of the trail provides an additional point of reference. The facilities operate subject to weather conditions, so check which options will be open before you travel.

Discover more destinations: Ragain, Laastadt, Schloß Treffen, Arnoldstein, Rosenbach, Kreuzen, Sankt Andrä, Saak

View the broader travel overview: Villach.