Murau

Murau, located in the Murau District of Styria, is a town with a deep-rooted history in mining and agriculture. Situated in the Murau Valley at an elevation of 829 meters, it has been an important settlement since the Middle Ages. The town's history is closely tied to the mining industry, with iron and silver mines operating in the surrounding mountains from the 12th century onwards. This industry brought wealth and development to the region, leading to the construction of significant architectural landmarks. The Parish Church of St. Martin, with its distinctive crossing tower and six bells, is a prime example of Gothic architecture and houses well-preserved frescoes. The Benedictine Abbey of Murau, founded in the 12th century, is another key historical site, offering insights into the religious and cultural life of the region. The town also features the Mining Museum and the Wood Museum, which showcase the traditional crafts and industries that have defined Murau for centuries.

The main attractions in Murau reflect its historical and natural setting. The Mining Museum is a major draw, offering guided tours of the historic mine shafts and exhibits on the history of mining in the region. The Wood Museum provides a look into the traditional woodcraft and forestry practices of Styria. The Parish Church of St. Martin is a architectural highlight, with its Gothic structure and beautiful interior frescoes. The town also serves as a base for exploring the surrounding mountains, including the Kreischberg ski area, which offers extensive hiking trails in the summer and skiing in the winter. The Murau GuestCard provides free access to various local attractions, including lifts, swimming pools, and museums, enhancing the visitor experience.

Murau offers a wide range of activities for visitors. In the summer, the surrounding mountains provide excellent hiking and mountain biking trails, with routes ranging from easy walks to challenging alpine ascents. The Kreischberg area is particularly popular for these activities, with well-marked trails and scenic viewpoints. In winter, the Kreischberg ski resort offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities, with slopes suitable for all skill levels. The town also hosts various cultural events and festivals, including the Murau Mining Festival and the Styrian Folklore Festival. Local cuisine features traditional Styrian dishes, such as Styrian pumpkin seed oil specialties and hearty meat dishes, served in numerous restaurants and cafes.

Getting to Murau is convenient via public transportation. The town is well-connected by train, with services from Graz and Vienna stopping at Murau station. The journey from Graz takes approximately 1.5 hours. For those driving, the S35 motorway (Murautal Straße) provides access to the region, with exits leading to the town. Local buses connect Murau to nearby villages and attractions. The town is also accessible from Slovenia via the border crossings nearby.

The best time to visit Murau is from June to August for warm weather and outdoor activities, particularly hiking and exploring the mining museums. July and August are peak months, with mild temperatures and long days, perfect for mountain activities. May and September offer milder weather and fewer crowds, making them suitable for sightseeing and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. Winter is cold but offers excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding.