Gamsgebirg: Lethkogel, Stainzer Warte and Forest Trails

Gamsgebirg combines a striking landscape with traces of different eras and a variety of trails. At its heart is Lethkogel: the 608 m-high Rückfallkuppe lies on an eastern foothill of the Koralpe and drops steeply towards the east. This creates a destination for your trip planning where panoramic views, cultural history and hiking are closely connected.

Discover Lethkogel and the hilltop settlement

Lethkogel is one of the most important hilltop settlements in western Styria. Archaeological research excavations have demonstrated use of the site during the Early Copper Age, the Late La Tène period and the Early Middle Ages. Those interested in the history of settlement sites can see at Lethkogel that this place is noteworthy not only because of its present-day landscape. The different periods give the destination historical depth, without limiting the hike to a single era.

Heritage protection is also part of the character of the place. The Pöllikogel/Lethkogel hilltop settlement in Gamsgebirg is protected as a heritage site on the basis of an official decision pursuant to Section 3. The Pletterikapelle chapel in Gamsgebirg is also protected as a heritage site pursuant to a regulation. Both references highlight the cultural side of Gamsgebirg and complement the impression of the landscape with specific historical points of reference.

Panoramic views at Stainzer Warte

Stainzer Warte stands on Lethkogel (608 m). The observation tower offers an excellent 360-degree panoramic view of Stainz and the surrounding area. At 26 m high, the tower itself is an easily recognizable landmark in the landscape. It can be reached via hiking trails 1 and 571. For visitors who like to head for a clear destination on an outing, Stainzer Warte combines panoramic views with the experience of the trail.

Hiking trails with different route characteristics

The Stainzer Warte circular trail follows a longer uphill route through the forest to the Pletterikapelle chapel. A bench there invites you to stop and rest. The route can therefore be experienced as a trail with a specific cultural destination along the way and a designated break. Those planning a trip with different interests can include this section as part of a day centered around Lethkogel and Stainzer Warte.

For the descent, trail 12 is available, also known as the Jägersteig. It leads along a steep path through a natural forest. The described sections therefore differ significantly: the longer uphill route through the forest to the Pletterikapelle chapel contrasts with a steep descent on the Jägersteig. This information helps you align your own day planning with your preferred type of trail, without limiting the outing to a single route.

Planning the right accommodation

If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Gamsgebirg, you can base your accommodation decision on the experiences you want to be the focus of your stay. One day might be suited to combining Lethkogel, heritage protection and panoramic views, while another could focus on the forest trails and their different sections. When planning, consider which location and daily rhythm suit your plans.

Other places for orientation

For your further search, you can also look at the listings for Pölfing-Brunn, Aug, Hörmsdorf, Deutschlandsberg, Wielfresen, Stainz, Gundersdorf and Freidorf An Der Laßnitz.

To the higher-level travel overview: Deutschlandsberg.