Ruden: Industrial History, Culture and Cycle Paths

Ruden combines a remarkable industrial history with culture, regional cuisine and several opportunities to actively explore the surrounding area. Lippitzbach in particular makes the town interesting for travellers: this is where historic evidence of iron and steel processing meets the Lippitzbach Bridge and a landscape that can also be explored by bicycle. Those looking for a holiday apartment in Ruden can therefore plan their stay according to different interests – with cultural discoveries, cycling stages, culinary breaks or special experiences.

Lippitzbach and the Industrial Past

South of Ruden, at the Drau crossing in Lippitzbach, there is an industrial site with visible remains of a once-important industrial complex. Lippitzbach was home to the first crucible steelworks outside England and, at the same time, to Austria’s oldest sheet-rolling mill. These two historical connections give the place special significance for anyone interested in the history of technology and economics.

The Lippitzbach castle complex includes a representative Gewerkenhaus dating from the early 19th century, with a historic chapel extension. As a testament to the region’s industrial past, the complex is of historical, architectural and cultural significance. The Lippitzbach Bridge is also an important part of this theme: today, it is considered one of the most significant surviving engineering structures built by the Vienna bridge construction company of Ignaz Gridl. The new Lippitzbach Bridge was opened in 2005 and features a 2.5-metre-high bronze statue of Saint Nepomuk at its centre.

Castle Ruin, Winegrowing and Museum

Northeast of Ruden lies the Weißenegg castle ruin, first mentioned in a document in 1243. This historic site adds another chapter to the view of the town’s past. In Ruden itself, the old winegrowing area known as “Weingarten” also recalls a long local tradition; it has been documented since the 17th century.

For a culturally oriented day of travel, the MUSEUM am Bach is an excellent option. It hosts changing seasonal exhibitions every year, involving contemporary artists, scientists and regional cultural associations. This provides a varied opportunity to engage with current cultural topics as well as with the history of Ruden and Lippitzbach.

Discover Ruden by Bicycle

Ruden is connected to two cycle paths. The R1 Drau Cycle Path runs through Ruden and, south of Eis, crosses the ÖBB Drau Bridge, the Jauntal Bridge. The R6B Haimburg Cycle Path runs from Völkermarkt via Haimburg and Griffen to Ruden, where it joins the R1 Drau Cycle Path. Those planning a trip with several stages can take these two routes into account when choosing accommodation and planning each day.

For arrival and mobility on site, it is also relevant that the “Völkermarkt” Postbus Shuttle serves the municipality of Ruden as well. This makes it possible to plan around the desired combination of bicycle, public transport and excursions, without limiting the stay to just one type of experience.

Special Experiences and Regional Cuisine

Ruden is associated with bungee jumping from the 96-metre-high Jauntal Bridge. This experience provides a clear contrast to the historic sights and the more tranquil cultural moments. Ruden also offers opportunities for fishing. When planning your trip, you can therefore alternate between active pursuits, history and relaxing days.

The regional side of the stay includes the Mostschenke Kaschnig. From Wednesday to Sunday, it serves traditional dishes and other culinary offerings. When choosing a holiday apartment, it may therefore be useful to weigh up your personal preferences for cycling, culture, extraordinary experiences and regional cuisine.

More Places for Planning Your Trip

If you would like to compare other destinations in addition to Ruden, you can find additional places for your research here: Globasnitz, Sankt Kanzian Am Klopeiner See, Oberseidendorf, Seelach, Untergreutschach, Klopein, Feistritz Ob Bleiburg and Kleindiex.

For the overarching travel overview: Völkermarkt.