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 symbolically depicted: New life emerges from the union of two people. This stage represents origin, energy, and the first impulse of existence.

Start: Laimbach
Highlights along the way: The Giant Fish at Ostrong, Peilstein Summit, Red Cross
Length: approx. 27 km
Walking time: approx. 8:30 h

Stage 2: Pregnancy and Birth—Crossing Boundaries / The First Transition
The phase of growing up in secret. Development, protection, and preparation for life outside the womb take center stage, leading up to birth as the first major transition.

Start: Nöchling
Highlights along the way: Nochilingastein, Loseneggerklamm, Herb Display and Tasting Garden, Hauptmann Mayer Rest Area, Das Steinerne Kornmandl, Herzstein, Ysper Parish Church
Length: approx. 19 km
Walking time: approx. 5:45 h

Stage 3: 0–6 Years – The Early Years
Early childhood is a time of learning through experience: trust, security, and first impressions shape this period. The world is discovered through play.

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

Stage 4: Ages 6–14 – Learning
School years and the acquisition of knowledge broaden horizons. Social interactions, rules, and skills continue to develop and shape one’s personality.

Start: Dorfstetten
Highlights along the way: Pfaffensteg Pond, Schlesinger Pond, Weinsberg Ruins, Hansl Pond, Gutenbrunn Inhalatorium
Length: approx. 24 km
Walking time: approx. 6:40 h

Stage 5: Adolescence – Age 20 – the “wild” years
A time of change: emotions, the search for identity, and the first major decisions. Relationships and self-discovery take center stage.

Start: Gutenbrunn
Highlights along the way: Edlesberger Lake, Giant Heart Life Path, source of the Kleine Krems River, Hubertus Chapel
Length: approx. 21 km
Walking time: approx. 5:30 h

Stage 6: Ages 20–30 – Building a Life
The transition into adulthood: Career, independence, and important life decisions shape this phase. The foundations for the future are laid.

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

Stage 7: Ages 30–40 – Integration / Settling Down
Stability and responsibility increase. Family, career, and social ties become more solid; life takes on structure and consistency.

Start: Els
Highlights along the way: Zwickl, Denkstein, Großreinprechts Parish Church, Teufelsstein
Length: approx. 29 km
Walking time: approx. 9:00 h

Stage 8: Ages 40–50 – Self-Awareness / Doubt
A time for reflection: One questions the life lived so far. New paths or changes may emerge, accompanied by self-confidence and a search for meaning.

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

Stage 9: Ages 50–60 – Harvest / New Freedom
Experience and achievements bear fruit. Often, new opportunities arise to explore interests more deeply and enjoy life more fully.

Start: Bad Traunstein
Highlights along the way: Edlesberger Lake, Wachtstein & Outdoor Living Room, Franzosenstein, Wiegenstein, source of the Große Krems
Length: approx. 15 km
Walking time: approx. 4:00 h

Stage 10: Ages 60–75 – Health / Retirement
The transition toretirement brings more time for oneself.Health, reflection, and a mindful approach to life take center stage.

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: Ages 75–99 – Wisdom / Peace
A phase of life marked by serenity. Experiences crystallize into wisdom, and the need for inner peace grows.

Start: Raxendorf
Highlights along the way: Nonnersdorf Cross, Dr. Jörg Mauthe Millennium Sundial, the region’s mother church, Spielerkreuz, Old Stone Bridge “Römerbrücke”
Length: approx. 21 km
Walking time: approx. 6:10 h

Stage 12: Death and Beyond—Crossing the Border / The Second Transition
The end of life is understood as atransition. This stage invites you to reflect on transience and the unknown that lies beyond.

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

Stage 13: Origins – Grandparents and Ancestors
The circle closes: a look back at origins and roots. A connection to past generations and the greater whole becomes apparent.

Start: Maria Taferl
Highlights along the way: Maria Taferl Basilica, Kollnitzberg observation deck
Distance: approx. 17 km
Walking time: approx. 4:40 h

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Entire Lebensweg

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