Welcome to Styria – the Green Heart of Austria
Welcome to Styria (Steiermark), affectionately known as the “Green Heart of Austria.” Whether you’re looking for a rugged alpine adventure in the north or a sun-drenched vineyard retreat in the south, this province offers the perfect blend of high culture and rustic charm.
History: From borderland to cultural hub
Styria takes its name from Steyr, the ancestral home of the Otakar dynasty that first ruled the region. Originally, the area was a “march” (a border region) of the Holy Roman Empire, where it served as a line of defense against invasions.
For centuries, it was a vital part of the Habsburg Empire. Archduke Johann, a beloved figure in the 19th century, modernized the region by promoting industry, agriculture, and education. The capital Graz served as the residence of the Inner Austrian line of the Habsburgs and left behind a stunning Renaissance and Baroque architectural legacy that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Description: Your home in the green heart
Styria is a land of contrasts, divided into mountainous Upper Styria and the rolling hills of Southern Styria (often called the "Tuscany of Austria"). When planning your stay, the region offers a wealth of luxury villas and cozy holiday apartments nestled among the vines.
You can find a luxurious holiday villa with a private sauna and infinity pool overlooking the Southern Styrian Wine Route, or choose a rustic apartment in a converted farmhouse for a more authentic holiday experience. For those seeking a quiet retreat, many villas are located on secluded hillsides, providing the perfect "home away from home" atmosphere for your holiday.
Culinary experiences and activities
Typical foods: A culinary journey
Styrian cuisine is famous for its "green gold" and hearty flavors. Here are some of the local specialties you should try:
Pumpkin seed oil (Kürbiskernöl): A dark, nutty oil drizzled over everything from salads to vanilla ice cream.
Backhendl: Crispy, breaded fried chicken – a classic Sunday dish.
Steirische Käferbohne: Large, speckled beans served as a salad with pumpkin seed oil and onions.
Brettljause: A wooden platter piled high with smoked meats, cold cuts, horseradish (Kren) and local cheeses, best enjoyed at a Buschenschank (wine tavern).
Schilcher wine: A unique, tart rosé wine produced only in western Styria.
Activities and nature
The nature of Styria invites you to relax and enjoy wild adventures. At the Dachstein glacier you can experience snow all year round, visit the glass platform "Skywalk" and go on incredible hikes. If you need to pamper yourself, you can visit the thermal spas of the "Thermenland", including the famous Rogner Bad Blumau, designed by the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser.
For the active, cycling on the wine roads is an obvious option; rent an electric bike and ride through the rolling hills, stopping at cozy vineyards. Also, don't miss the Grüner See, a crystal-clear emerald-green lake that floods in the spring, covering park benches and paths with meltwater.
Festivals and events
The inhabitants of Styria love a good party, often centered around music and the harvest. Styriarte (June/July) is a prestigious classical music festival in Graz, while Aufsteirern (September) is the ultimate celebration of culture, with everyone wearing traditional Tracht (Dirndls and Lederhosen).
In the fall, the wine regions host several harvest festivals with "Sturm" (partially fermented grape juice) and roasted chestnuts. For adrenaline junkies, the Erzbergrodeo is an absolute highlight – it's one of the world's toughest enduro motorcycle races, held in a massive open-pit iron mine.
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