Discover Gaflenz

Gaflenz offers several specific points of interest for a stay: the Sebaldus tradition at Heiligenstein, the history of the parish church and trails with published route details. There are also seasonal opportunities for activities in the snow and other pursuits. If you are looking for a hotel in Gaflenz, these differences can help you plan your day: culture, a route of a set length or a seasonal activity each offer a different focus.

Churches and the Sebaldus Way

Sebaldus Church at Heiligenstein is the only church in Austria dedicated to Saint Sebald of Nuremberg. The Sebaldus Way reaches Gaflenz on its final stage, where the church at Heiligenstein is visited. The Heiligenstein themed trail opened in the anniversary year of 2013. Several stations in and around the church explore the history of the mountain shrine, its importance as a pilgrimage site and the work of Saint Sebald. The routes are clearly distinct for planning purposes: the Sebaldus Way reaches Gaflenz on its final stage, while the themed trail stations explore the history of Heiligenstein on site.

The chapel at Heiligenstein was built in 1413, converted into a church around 1470 and expanded in the 16th century. Gaflenz Parish Church was built in the Early Gothic style, consecrated in 1140 and expanded in 1464. Gothic frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Mary were uncovered in the parish church in 1948/49. For culture enthusiasts, pilgrimage and Sebaldus are therefore the focus at Heiligenstein, while the parish church has its own architectural and fresco history.

Hiking and route details

Well-marked forest trails, mountain meadow paths, mountain roads and footpaths lead to interesting places at elevations between 776 m and 1103 m above sea level. The Harreither Fitness Loop is well signposted, circles the town centre and offers a choice of 7 or 10 km. The Sonnbergweg (E02) is a 30-minute route with 50 metres of elevation gain; it runs along a gravel road, forest path and meadow path. On the Fitness Loop, you can compare two distances; on the Sonnbergweg, you can compare the duration, elevation gain and terrain instead.

The tour to Lehnereck is seasonal. If you also climb Hirschkogel, you will cover a total of 750 metres of elevation gain. Check conditions before setting out, as they may change.

Seasonal activities and other options

The Heiligenstein cross-country ski trail is 10 km long and designed for both classic technique and skating. Of this, 2.5 km is rated easy, 6.5 km moderate and 1 km challenging. Trail grooming depends on snow conditions, so plan according to the current conditions. There are also numerous opportunities for snowshoeing in and around Gaflenz. Snowshoes can be rented from the Ennstal National Park Region Tourist Board; arrange your rental before travelling.

Beginners can also get started with climbing as a health sport through courses at the 6a climbing gym. Confirm course availability directly in advance. The seasonal Sebaldus shuttle runs between Großraming, Losenstein, Laussa, Maria Neustift, Gaflenz and Weyer, taking guests between trail stages and their accommodation. Check operating hours and booking conditions before travelling.

The snack station is open seasonally. It serves local farm specialities such as cider, spirits and cured meats, as well as homemade pastries.

Discover more destinations: Maria Neustift, Weyer, Wolfern, Garsten, Ternberg, Schiedlberg, Losenstein, Goldberg.

Return to the main travel overview: Steyr-Land.