Discover Birkfeld: Feistritztal Railway, Cycle Path and Hiking Experiences

Birkfeld combines railway nostalgia, cycling, hiking and regional history to create a diverse travel experience. The Feistritztal Railway is particularly distinctive: Birkfeld is its starting point, and in summer nostalgic steam train journeys take place. There is also a circular hiking trail with a musical connection, an adventure outdoor pool and seasonal events. This allows you to combine different priorities when choosing your holiday apartment in Birkfeld, without limiting your trip to a single activity.

Travelling on the Feistritztal Railway

With the involvement of Club U44, nostalgic journeys on the Feistritztal Railway can still be experienced today just as they were in days gone by. Steam train journeys from Birkfeld to Weiz are possible. Anyone planning a trip with a historic railway atmosphere therefore has a specific reason to choose Birkfeld as their starting point. In summer, the nostalgic steam train journeys are the main attraction; the connection to Weiz adds another travel option to this experience.

Today, the Feistritztal Cycle Path runs along the disused section of the Feistritztal Railway line towards Ratten. This gives your travel planning a different perspective on the former railway route: you can combine a visit to the town with a train journey or explore the former section of the line by bicycle. Which option suits you better depends on whether you are looking for a leisurely railway experience or an active day on two wheels.

Hiking on the Edlseer Hoamat Trail

The approximately 12.1 km-long Edlseer Hoamat Trail is a circular route. It begins in Birkfeld in the Joglland – Waldheimat region and runs in honour of the Edlseer band, which is based there. Along the trail, there are various information stations about the band at regular intervals. This means that the route offers not only a longer hike, but also a regional connection that you can get to know step by step along the way.

A day at the pool, market history and chocolate

The Birkfeld adventure outdoor pool uses a solar installation to ensure optimal water temperatures for swimming. A day at the pool can therefore provide a deliberate contrast to railway and hiking excursions. This allows families with different interests to make their stay varied: while one activity combines exercise and discovery, swimming can take centre stage on another day.

The town's history also deserves attention. The market town of Birkfeld was first mentioned in an official document in the 1265 land register of the sovereign. As of 2026, the Felber chocolate manufactory will offer shop sales only; guided tours are available by telephone appointment. If you would like to plan this visit, you should arrange the tour by telephone in advance. During Advent, a Christmas market is also held at the Gallbrunnen pilgrimage site. This seasonal event adds a distinctive touch to a trip during Advent.

Choosing the right base for your trip

A holiday apartment in Birkfeld is particularly suitable as a search option if you would like to include the Feistritztal Railway, the start of the Edlseer Hoamat Trail or several of the experiences mentioned above in your plans. Before booking, consider whether your focus is on nostalgic train journeys, cycling, hiking, swimming or a seasonal visit. This allows you to assess the location of your accommodation based on your desired travel programme, without presuming the amenities, prices or availability of individual options.

For more ideas for places to visit, you can also view Aschau, Anger, Gasen, Municipality of Floing, Gersdorf An Der Feistritz, Stenzengreith, Fladnitz An Der Teichalpe and Brand.

For the overarching travel overview: Weiz.