Discover Neuwald: Whitewater Trail, Wetland and Hochwechsel

Neuwald is a destination for anyone who wants to combine nature observation, a varied hike and quiet cultural attractions. A special starting point is the approximately 200 m² Mariensee wetland, which is surrounded by a wet meadow. From here, the whitewater trail leads through a small valley along the Pöstlingbach, where springs and streams flow freely. Between water, forest and information boards, this outing allows hikers, children and adults to discover hidden places as well as the world of whitewater and its environment.

From the Wetland to the Waterfall

The whitewater trail begins and ends at the Mariensee wetland in Neuwald. Numerous information boards and questions accompany the route. The trail leads to a rest area near an old mill and continues to a waterfall and a bivouac. At the wetland, visitors can also observe aquatic animals such as the yellow-bellied toad. Depending on the day's plans, the visit can therefore be arranged as a nature excursion by the water or as a longer hike.

The whitewater trail is a moderately difficult hike covering 6.63 km. It takes 3 hours, with 494 metres of ascent and descent. Anyone looking for accommodation in Neuwald can already take these details into account when planning and consider whether a full day of hiking on the water trail fits their own travel rhythm.

Hiking Destination: Wetterkoglerhaus on Hochwechsel

A longer alternative leads from the Mariensee wetland via the Marienseer Schwaig to the Wetterkoglerhaus on Hochwechsel. The hike begins in the wetland and ends at the Wetterkoglerhaus. The Marienseer Schwaig can be reached on foot via well-marked hiking trails. During the hike, it offers homemade dishes and produce from its own garden. The Schwaig was mentioned as early as the beginning of the 19th century.

At 1,743 m, the Wetterkoglerhaus is located at the highest point of Wechsel. From there, the panoramic view extends over Semmering and Rax to Schneeberg, as well as beyond the borders to Slovenia and Hungary. You can travel to the access point via Mariensee by car. Alternatively, from the railway station terminus at Aspang-Markt, take regional bus 1764 to Mariensee Gh Haidbauer; from there, the route can be completed on foot in approximately 40 minutes.

Culture and Historical Traces

There are also specific destinations in Neuwald and Mariensee away from the hiking trails. The Salzbauer Chapel, also known as Mariensee Chapel, is located in the centre of Mariensee on a hill near the entrance to the village. It was built in memory of the fallen Hubert Fahrner and those who fell in the First and Second World Wars, and was consecrated on 2 September 1956.

The Catholic parish church of St Peter in the cadastral community of Neuwald is protected as a historic monument by ordinance. The interior of St Peter's Parish Church in Neuwald can be viewed by prior registration. The associated municipality is also home to the 1,000-year-old oak natural monument on private property. It is not directly accessible; however, it can be approached and viewed from a distance of up to 50 metres. For further orientation in the area, the Herrgottschnitzerhütte – Franz Kaupe House is located on Kampstein at 2870 Neuwald and operates in summer and winter.

The Right Accommodation for Your Travel Plans

When looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home in Neuwald, the main deciding factor is therefore the desired focus. For the whitewater trail, the Mariensee wetland, the route along the Pöstlingbach and the details on distance and elevation gain are important points for planning the day. Anyone wishing to reach Hochwechsel should plan the outing around the Marienseer Schwaig and the Wetterkoglerhaus. For a culturally focused day, the Mariensee Chapel, the parish church and the natural monument with its special access conditions are suitable options.

Further Local Pages on the Portal

You can find further local pages on the portal under Kranichberg, Reichenau An Der Rax, Zöbern, Gemeinde Raach am Hochgebirge, Edlitz, Puchberg Am Schneeberg, Gemeinde Semmering and Neunkirchen.

To the higher-level travel overview: Neunkirchen.