Naturpark Zirbitzkogel-Grebenzen

A holiday in the nature park in Styria

A holiday in the Naturpark Zirbitzkogel-Grebenzen means immersing yourself in a ‘natural environment’ of great ecological value. As one of Styria’s first nature parks, the area encompasses ten municipalities across a 285 km² territory. The region stretches across the low and high mountain landscapes of the Ober, nestled between the Murtal valley and the Seetaler Alps. In the Naturpark Zirbitzkogel-Grebenzen, you will find healthy habitats for plants, animals and people. The landscape ranges from gentle slopes at 800 metres up to the imposing summit of the Zirbitzkogel at 2,396 metres, not far from the district capital of Murau.

A mountain landscape with a view of Pichlschloss, surrounded by trees and autumn foliage under a clear sky — The harmonious blend of nature and architecture invites you to explore the autumnal landscape.

The Hotel Landsitz Pichlschloss is a Nature Park partner establishment

The Pichlschloss country estate is a certified Nature Park partner and acts as an ambassador for nature-based holidays. The Nature Park’s philosophy is based on four pillars: conservation, recreation, education and regional development. Active efforts are made to preserve biodiversity. For example, nesting boxes have been put up to promote biodiversity. Heating is provided by regional bioheat from St. Lambrecht. At Pichlschloss, guests stay in the heart of nature, surrounded by parkland and the hotel’s own woodlands. Here, the focus is on healthy exercise, accommodation and cuisine in the form of slow food, offering exactly the kind of relaxation you are looking for on your holiday in Murau.

Nature Reading: Understanding the Language of the Environment

A key theme in the region is ‘Nature Reading’. It is an invitation to reflect on forgotten knowledge and rediscover the interconnections of the environment. A central feature is the Via Natura, a 130-kilometre long-distance hiking trail that can be tackled in stages and serves as a veritable textbook on nature and the environment.
As Pichlschloss used to be a sanatorium for lung diseases, the focus is on the theme of “Good, clean air in connection with lichens”. Lichens serve as natural air indicators: in areas with low pollution, the trees are richly covered with sensitive beard and shrub lichens. The abundance of lichens on the trees clearly shows that the air in the Murau region is particularly clean and fresh.

Two people sitting on a rocky ledge overlooking a green valley and mountains under a blue sky — Enjoy the majestic views of expansive landscapes while embracing the tranquility of nature.

The four natural gems of the Naturpark Zirbitzkogel-Grebenzen

As part of the activities on offer in the Murau Nature Park, a visit to the four official natural gems is highly recommended. The internationally protected Hörfeld Moor is home to over 500 species of butterfly, whilst the Dürnberger Moor is regarded as a fascinating testament to the Ice Age. The Furtner Teich, together with the Provincial Bird Observatory, serves as an important feeding and nesting ground for migratory birds. The Grebenzen Heights also impress with their remarkable alpine flora. These species-rich habitats are protected according to strict criteria and invite visitors to observe rare species such as the fire lily or the golden eagle in their natural environment.

Activities and relaxation whatever the weather

The area around Pichlschloss offers countless opportunities for exercise and exploration. Whether it’s themed walks with nature park ranger Margrit or exploring the Gragger Gorge with its cascading waterfall – the region has something to suit every taste. Even in rainy weather, nature is a delight: a stroll under the Pichlschloss umbrella invigorates the skin and lungs. The hotel’s own nature park library offers a wide range of hiking guides and identification books for plants and birds. A visit to the Nature Reading Museum will teach you many fascinating facts about nature. After a day outdoors, you can relax in the hotel’s sauna or have your tired muscles soothed with a soothing massage.

Vegetable garden with raised beds containing various leafy greens and vegetables — A vibrant vegetable garden invites you to discover the joys of home gardening and organic farming.

Protecting through use: biodiversity you can experience first-hand

Under the motto “Protect by using”, the Naturpark Zirbitzkogel-Grebenzen is actively promoting biodiversity. Since April 2018, the pastures of the Pichlschloss estate have been home to a traditional orchard featuring over 70 varieties of fruit typical of the region, as well as heritage varieties such as quinces and cherries. The hotel’s own salad garden, herb patch and snack garden are part of the “Lustvoll ins Gras beißen” initiative. There is close cooperation with local businesses to secure jobs in the region and support environmentally friendly concepts. This strengthens environmental awareness and preserves valuable cultural landscapes for the future.

Discover the diversity of the area between Zirbitzkogel and Grebenzen and experience genuine hospitality at the Pichlschloss country estate. Book your holiday in Styria directly online or send us a no-obligation enquiry.

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