Entire Lebensweg

The Lebensweg in the Waldviertel is more than just a long-distance hiking trail - it is a journey to yourself. Nestled in the tranquil, pristine landscape of the southern Waldviertel in northern Lower Austria, this long-distance hiking trail combines an experience of nature with inner contemplation. Granite formations, mystical forests, wild waters, clear streams and wide plateaus characterize the region and create a special atmosphere of peace and strength. The trail is symbolically structured: Each of the 13 stages stands for a stage of human life - from departure to completion. In this way, hiking itself becomes a reflection on one's own journey through life.

Stage 1: Parental love - conception
The beginning of life is depicted symbolically: New life arises from the union of two people. This stage stands for origin, energy and the first impulse of existence.

Start: Laimbach
Highlights along the way: The giant fish on the Ostrong, Peilstein summit, Red Cross
Length: approx. 27 km
Walking time: approx. 8:30 h

Stage 2: Pregnancy and birth - crossing borders / the first transition
The phase of growing up in secret. The focus is on development, protection and preparation for life outside, right up to birth as the first major transition.

Start: Nöchling
Highlights along the way: Nochilingastein, Loseneggerklamm, herb show and snack garden, Hauptmann Mayer-Ruhe, Das Steinerne Kornmandl, Herzstein, Ysper parish church
Length: approx. 19 km
Walking time: approx. 5:45 h

Stage 3: 0-6 years - the first years
Early childhood with learning through experience: Trust, security and first impressions characterize this time. The world is discovered through play.

Start: Ysper
Highlights along the way: Ysperklamm gorge
Length: approx. 19 km
Walking time: approx. 5:30 h

Stage 4: 6-14 years - learning
School time and knowledge building broaden the horizon. Social contacts, rules and skills continue to develop and shape the personality.

Start: Dorfstetten
Highlights along the way: Pfaffenstegteich pond, Schlesingerteich pond, Weinsberg ruins, Hanslteich pond, Gutenbrunn inhalatorium
Length: approx. 24 km
Walking time: approx. 6:40 h

Stage 5: Puberty - 20 years - the "wild" years
A time of change: Emotions, search for identity and first big decisions. The focus is on relationships and self-discovery.

Start: Gutenbrunn
Highlights along the way: Edlesberger See, giant heart life path, origin of the Kleine Krems, Hubertus Chapel
Length: approx. 21 km
Walking time: approx. 5:30 h

Stage 6: 20-30 years - building a life
The start of adult life: Career, independence and important life decisions characterize this stage. The foundations for the future are laid.

Start: Kirchschlag
Highlights along the way: The Metzen, Wachau marble
Length: approx. 17 km
Walking time: approx. 4:40 h

Stage 7: 30-40 years - integration / settling down
Stability and responsibility increase. Family, career and social ties become stronger, life gains structure and consistency.

Start: Els
Highlights along the way: Gudenus cave, Zwickl, memorial stone, Großreinprechts parish church, Teufelsstein (devil's stone)
Length: approx. 29 km
Walking time: approx. 9:00 h

Stage 8: 40-50 years - awareness / doubts
Time for reflection: your previous life is questioned. New paths or changes can emerge, accompanied by self-confidence and a search for meaning.

Start: Sallingberg
Highlights along the way: Hörtingersäge, poppy garden, railroad bridge at the Weyrerteich pond
Length: approx. 17 km
Walking time: approx. 4:45 h

Stage 9: 50-60 years - harvest / new freedom
Experience and achievements bear fruit. New freedom is often created to deepen interests and enjoy life more consciously.

Start: Bad Traunstein
Highlights along the way: Edlesberger See, Wachtstein & outdoor living room, Franzosenstein, Der Wiegenstein, source of the Große Krems
Length: approx. 15 km
Walking time: approx. 4:00 h

Stage 10: 60-75 years - health / retirement
The transition to retirement brings more time for yourself. The focus is on health, looking back and consciously shaping your life.

Start: Martinsberg
Highlights along the way: Mildner memorial cross, Pöggstall castle pond, Braunegg viewing platform, Kreuzriedel
Length: approx. 26 km
Walking time: approx. 7:45 h

Stage 11: 75-99 years - wisdom / peace
A stage in life of serenity. Experiences condense into wisdom and the need for inner peace grows.

Start: Raxendorf
Highlights along the way: Nonnersdorf Cross, Dr. Jörg Mauthe Millennium Sundial, Mother Church of the Region, Players' Cross, Old Stone Bridge "Roman Bridge"
Length: approx. 21 km
Walking time: approx. 6:10 h

Stage 12: Death and after - crossing the border / the second transition
The end of life is understood as a transition. This stage invites you to come to terms with transience and the unknown afterwards.

Start: Leiben
Highlights along the way: viewing platform at Henzing, wooden bell tower in Losau, bridge in Schwarztal, Artstetten Castle - crypt
Length: approx. 15 km
Walking time: approx. 4:00 h

Stage 13: Origin - grandparents and ancestors
The circle closes: a look back at origins and roots. A connection to earlier generations and to the greater whole becomes clear.

Start: Maria Taferl
Highlights along the way: Maria Taferl Basilica, viewing platform on Kollnitzberg
Length: approx. 17 km
Walking time: approx. 4:40 h

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