Winter Cycling Tour in Southern Styria

December 29, 2025

A rare sunny winter day invites you to a special cycling tour through Southern Styria. The route leads from the Grottenhof via the Frauenberg, past Seggau Castle, along the Sulm River and through quiet winter landscapes all the way to snow-covered vineyards. A relaxed tour full of nature, history and beautiful views – perfect for discovering the region around Wagna in an active and enjoyable way, even in the colder months.

For days, Southern Styria had been wrapped in a grey winter cloak: fog, drizzle, and temperatures at which even a bicycle would gladly take a holiday. Hence my bike remained untouched in the garage for quite some time.

But this morning held a surprise: a brilliant blue sky over Leibnitz and Southern Styria, biting cold air, and that very special winter feeling that instantly makes you want to get moving. It had snowed on Christmas Eve, but by now the roads were clear again. So I waited until midday—and sure enough: the temperatures actually climbed above freezing. Perfect!

Off on the Sausal Tour

Spontaneously, I decided to ride part of the Sausal Tour, one of my favorite routes in Southern Styria. This route is ideal for bicycles, e-bikes, and gravel bikes alike—a mountain bike is not a must. However, if you’re riding a classic bicycle, you should opt for tires with a bit more tread, as there are a few kilometers of unpaved paths between Lang and Grötsch.

Wrapped up warmly (hello, layering principle!), I set off toward the starting point at the Grottenhof. The route led me over the Frauenberg, passing directly below the Frauenkirche. In winter, this climb is ideal for me to bring my body up to operating temperature.

Frauenkirche on the Frauenberg – History with a View

Visible from afar, the pilgrimage church Frauenberg majestically towers above Leibnitz. Its history dates back to Late Antiquity, with Christian origins around 400 AD. A church here was first mentioned around 1170, and over time the site developed into an important Marian pilgrimage destination. Magnificent frescoes by Joseph Sattler and the baroque tower dome from 1835 still give the church a very special aura today—history, art, and spirituality in perfect harmony. I always enjoy taking a break at the Frauenberg—right across from the church at the Buschenschank Weinbau Menhart.

Right next to the Frauenkirche is the Frauenberg Temple Museum, which is always worth a visit. It offers fascinating insights into the history of the Frauenberg and the pilgrimage church—ideal for anyone who enjoys combining culture with physical activity.

Seggau Castle & Grottenhof – Pleasure and History

I then continued past Seggau Castle, which looks back on almost 1,000 years of history. Once a bishop’s residence, it was remodeled in the Baroque style in the 17th century and today impresses with beautiful arcaded courtyards and splendid princely rooms. Today, Seggau Castle serves as a hotel, conference center, wine cellar, and cultural meeting place—including the famous “Seggauer Liesl,” the largest historic bell in Styria.

After a short descent, I crossed the Sulm River and reached the Grottenhof Visitor Center. By the way, you can also rent e-bikes here from Joachim Ruhri (www.ebike-suedsteiermark.at). I occasionally make use of this option when riding with e-bike friends—my own is still waiting for me.

The Grottenhof is also a lively cultural and event center in Southern Styria, with numerous events throughout the year. In the gourmet shop and wine shop, you’ll find excellent wines and regional delicacies. I especially love visiting the atmospheric Christmas market on Advent weekends—handicrafts, Styrian specialties, and plenty of Southern Styrian coziness.

Mystical Winter Landscape Along the Sulm

Next came the flat section along the Sulm to Lang, then on through forests and fields to Grötsch. Today, this landscape felt almost magical—as if the earth were breathing softly. The fields steamed under the winter sun, bathing everything in a mysterious atmosphere. An attempt to capture this moment:

In Grötsch, I turn sharply left behind the chapel and head uphill toward Flamberg. From there to Maxlon, breathtaking views opened up over snow-covered vineyards—a rare sight in Southern Styria, as snow has unfortunately become quite rare here.

Happily Back in Wagna

After nearly two hours and 37.5 km, I arrived back home happy, refreshed, and with rosy cheeks—exactly how one imagines a perfect winter cycling tour.
In spring, I’ll be happy to share more of my favorite cycling tours through the Southern Styrian Wine Region.

Until then, I wish you a charming winter wonderland.

Yours sincerely

Maria Jammernegg

Wagna, December 27th, 2025

Here you can find more information about the Frauenkirche, Grottenhof, and e-bike rental: