Niklasdorf: Discover the Mugel, the Mur and local history

You can choose Niklasdorf for a trip based on the activities you want to focus on while you’re there: the Mur Cycle Path runs right through the town, while the Mugel hiking area is at the foot of Niklasdorf. In the town center, the outdoor pool adds to the places to visit; the Old Parish Church and the water tower offer their own points of connection to local history. If you’re looking for a hotel in Niklasdorf, you can first decide whether tours, time by the water or culture will be the deciding factor.

Mugel: hiking, cycling and winter tours

The Mugel is in the heart of the Gleinalm Mountains, at an elevation of 1,630 m. Niklasdorf lies at the foot of the Mugel hiking area; the hike from Niklasdorf to the Mugel offers views of the Mur, Mürz and Vordernberg valleys.

An official mountain bike route leads from Niklasdorf to the Mugel mountain refuge. It is 10 km long and has an elevation difference of 1,100 m. Stage 10 of the Styrian Iron Trail runs from Niklasdorf via the Mugel to Leoben, then continues straight into the city center. The routes therefore differ in their destinations and focus: valley views on the hike, the Mugel mountain refuge on the mountain bike route, and Leoben’s city center on the trail stage.

In winter, the Mugel is suitable for ski touring. The Mugel mountain run takes place every year and leads from Niklasdorf to the J.-Hans-Prosl mountain refuge. Every year on December 30, from 2 p.m., the Mugel mountain refuge celebrates Bauernsilvester; check the event date before you travel. The refuge has more than 50 beds for overnight stays. If you plan to stay there, check availability in advance.

Outdoor pool and Mur Cycle Path

Niklasdorf outdoor pool is in the town center, right by the Mur, and offers views of the river, the parish church and the town hall. Facilities include a baby pool and a 50 m slide. The pool is a destination in the center, while the Mur Cycle Path offers a separate route through the town. This means you can plan a visit by the water and a bike ride as separate activities.

Old Parish Church and water tower

Under a decree, the Old Parish Church in Niklasdorf is a protected monument. A papal bull issued by Pope Eugene III in 1148 mentions the church in Michilindorf. A fire in 1480 destroyed the wooden roof structure and the sacristy. During restoration work in 1837, an inscription was found; it was taken to indicate that the church had been rebuilt in 1499. The dates mark different milestones: the early mention, the fire and the rebuilding inferred from the inscription.

Another local point of interest is the water tower, which has what is said to be the world’s largest label. The label was designed in 1998 by Georg Brandner together with Brigl & Bergmeister and the Niklasdorf municipal office, to mark the celebration of Niklasdorf’s elevation to market town status and the 850th anniversary of the town. The church and the water tower offer different points of interest: the history of a protected building, and a design connected with the town anniversary.

Discover more destinations: Kammern Im Liesingtal, Präbichl, Eisenerz, Rannach, Sankt Michael In Obersteiermark, Sankt Stefan ob Leoben, Radmer, Hieflau

Go to the broader travel overview: Leoben.