Pferdeeisenbahn Wanderweg - Etappe 2

The horse-drawn railway hiking trail runs in four stages from Leopoldschlag (border with the Czech Republic) to Linz or vice versa.

Interesting bridge structures, well-preserved railway keeper's cottages and a mighty station building of our country's first railway can be seen on this hiking trail. As most of the hiking trail in the municipality of Rainbach runs along the former route of the horse-drawn railway, you often hike on existing railway embankments through shady forests.

From station to station
Before following the main trail southwards, it is worth making a detour to the centre of Rainbach. The "Path of Colours" there is definitely worth a visit. Another alternative would be to visit the Chakren hiking trail in Eibenstein, which has been awarded the Austrian Hiking Seal of Quality.
Starting from Summerau railway station, the route leads us south towards Freistadt. At Waldburg, you come across the Kronbach bridge, a double-arched stone bridge with a height of 12 metres. It is one of the most striking preserved structures of the horse-drawn railway.

TIP: Be sure to visit the three winged altars in the Waldburg parish church. Hardly anywhere else in Austria can you find three Gothic winged altars at once like in the church in Waldburg. The rather simple depiction of the figures still has a special charm for many viewers today. The figures appear very lifelike, which was probably much appreciated by the church people at the time of their creation (1517-1523). These works are artistically extremely valuable and represent a beautiful example of deeply felt popular piety.

The old town of Freistadt with its many narrow alleyways, an imposing town wall with preserved gates and defence towers and the beautiful town square are also definitely worth a detour. A visit to the Freistadt brewery commune teaches you the ancient art of brewing beer and is a welcome change from the efforts you have already made. In addition to the Hotel Hubertus, Freistadt also has numerous other accommodation options and places to stop for refreshments.

Through the Trölsberg forest to the Lest station building
After the charming brewing town of Freistadt, the horse-drawn railway trail leads us to another highlight, namely the very well-preserved, two-storey, five-axle station building in Lest. Once here, the Gasthof Mader is the perfect place to stop off and recharge your batteries. The family-run business is known far and wide for its excellent cuisine, cosy rooms and hospitality.

TIP: Visit the world-famous Flügelalter in Kefermarkt via a circular hiking trail. Weinberg Castle, which is one of the most impressive buildings in the Mühlviertel region, is also worth a visit. In addition to a recommended visit to the local coffee house, there are also overnight accommodation options in Kefermarkt.