To the Heiligenstein in the cold season

From Gaflenz train station, a scenic hiking trail leads along the Way of the Cross up to the pilgrimage site of Heiligenstein, where there is an idyllically situated church and a snack station. The trail then leads over the ridge down to Weyer, from where you can easily return by train.

From Gaflenz station, walk in a south-westerly direction along the tracks towards Weyer. After about 300 meters you reach a track crossing. Here you are already on the way to Heiligenstein and can see the little church from afar.

After crossing the tracks, continue straight ahead along the small stream until you reach a bridge on the right-hand side after around 150 meters, which leads over to the settlement. Follow the road through the settlement, turn right at the first crossroads and walk past a garage. You then reach a signpost marking the Way of the Cross to Heiligenstein (path E06/E07).

Continue along the road and after a short while turn right at a farm. From here, a forest path leads steeply up the slope. The path is well marked and benches invite you to rest at the five Stations of the Cross. At the top, follow the road to the right until you reach the church. Right next to it is the snack station (open at weekends and on public holidays from May to October), which invites you to linger - a wonderful place of pilgrimage with a magnificent view, located in the middle of the forest.

From the church, the road continues along the ridge down to Weyer. If you prefer to walk off the tarmac, you can also take the hiking trail alongside the road. At the end of the path, you reach the village of Weyer and can take the train back to Gaflenz from there.

At several stations in and around the church, visitors receive information about the history of the mountain shrine, its significance as a place of pilgrimage and the work of St. Sebald.

The so-called Mesnerhaus now houses the snack station. Guests are treated to regional specialties and homemade pastries at weekends and on public holidays from May to October.

Adapt your tours to the current weather reports and act according to the seasonal dangers in the terrain.

Clothing:

• Functional or ski underwear


• Fleece jacket (for very cold temperatures)


• Waterproof outdoor jacket or light winter jacket


• Warm softshell pants or hiking pants - In very cold weather: ski pants


• Hat and gloves


• Scarf or multifunctional scarf


• Gaiters (for snow)


• Warm hiking socks


• Sturdy footwear suitable for winter (waterproof, non-slip sole)

Equipment:

• Sunglasses


• Sun cream


• Seat cover


• Hiking poles or ski poles if required (with winter poles)


• Light crampons or Grödel


• Backpack (ideally with rain cover)


• First aid kit


• Headlamp


• Thermos flask (e.g. with tea) and carbohydrate-rich snacks/food