Nature as a muse: Cultural trails on Rax and Semmering

The spring months are ideal for cultural walks in mild weather, whilst in summer the cultural scene attracts visitors with over 200 events. Autumn offers clear views and colourful forests. In winter, the Semmering transforms into a ski resort steeped in tradition – it was here that the first Alpine Ski World Cup took place in 1936. Those who prefer snowshoeing will be in their element on the Rax Plateau. 

Highlights include the Kultur.Sommer.Semmering, the Reichenau Festival and the Raimundspiele Gutenstein. 

Yes. Travellers from Vienna can reach Payerbach-Reichenau or Semmering in just one hour via the Südbahn. From the stations, there are buses connecting the valley stations of the cable cars and the hiking trails. Many visitors combine the train journey with a section of the railway walking trail. There is also a RUFbus service between Semmering and Rax, which can be booked flexibly and connects to small villages and accommodation – ideal for sustainable travel without a car.

By prior booking (by phone or via the app) for designated zones/stops. Ideal as a shuttle service from the railway station or bus stop to your accommodation, the valley station or the start of a hike. Please book in good time; bear in mind journey times at the start and end of the day.

The ‘20-schilling view’ is considered a classic because it used to adorn the reverse side of the 20-schilling note. On the Rax, the view of the Höllental valley is legendary; on the Schneeberg, the Klosterwappen offers a view of countless peaks – from Vienna’s local mountains to the distant Karawanken.

Museums, coffee houses and historic buildings offer plenty of variety: the Südbahnhotel Semmering, Reichenau Castle and the Ghega Museum, which traces the history of the Semmering Railway. Every year, more than 12,000 visitors also take advantage of free entry to the World Heritage Information Centre at Semmering railway station. 

A relaxing afternoon at Café Alber or the Kaffeehalle Semmering is also well worth it.

Typical of the region are game dishes, homemade strudel and specialities from the mountain inns. In Reichenau and on the Semmering, Viennese coffee-house culture blends with alpine charm. You really must try the Reichenau sponge rusk. It was already a favourite with summer visitors back in the 19th century. At Café Konditorei Alber, it is still baked today just as it was over 100 years ago. The recipe for this sweet sponge biscuit originally comes from the former cook at the Thalhof. 

The Höllental valley is the source of Vienna’s drinking water and a Natura 2000 conservation area. Please use only the marked paths, do not pick any plants and do not light any open fires. Swimmingisprohibited – the Schwarza is freezing cold and untamed, so particular caution is advised.