4.4
(982)
5,506
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310
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Family friendly hiking trails around Haunoldstein are situated within the scenic Mostviertel region of Lower Austria, at the foot of the Dunkelsteinerwald. This area is characterized by rolling hills and dense woodlands, offering extensive hiking opportunities with panoramic views over the Danube Valley. The rugged Pielach Gorge, overlooked by the historic Osterburg Castle Ruins, adds a dramatic natural feature to the landscape. Viewpoints like the Sierninger Kreuz provide expansive vistas across the surroundings.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.0
(3)
20
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
10
hikers
16.0km
04:27
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3
hikers
5.65km
01:27
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
7.83km
02:00
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
3.63km
00:57
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Bründl Chapel in Groß Sierning, also called Mariabründl, was built at a spring that has long been believed to have healing powers. Pilgrims made pilgrimages here as early as the 19th century, and in 1914, the present chapel, built in the Neo-Gothic style with a tower, pointed arch windows, and barrel vault, was ceremoniously consecrated. Inside stands a simple lindenwood Madonna, accompanied by modern reliefs. Numerous legends surround the Bründl, such as the story of a blind shepherd who regained his sight through the water, or of farmers whose livestock were spared from epidemics by the spring water. Today, the chapel, surrounded by ancient chestnut trees, is a quiet place of contemplation.
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The carved altar (1509) from Mauer near Melk is a masterpiece of the late Gothic period. The central section depicts Mary with Child and saints, while the wings feature scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary. An altarpiece depicts a crucifixion. The woodcarver who created the altar, whose name is unknown, is referred to as the Master of the Altar of Mauer near Melk. (Source: Wikipedia https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meister_des_Altars_von_Mauer_bei_Melk)
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Sitzenthal Castle is a 16th-century castle building that was rebuilt and modernized by Count Ledochowska in the 19th century. On the upper floor, the castle has a colonnaded hall and rooms with ridge vaults, historical furniture and valuable paintings. Currently privately owned and therefore not accessible. Since then, the castle has been a fief of Melk Abbey and belonged to Count Ludwig Starhemberg, who was outlawed in 1619. In the 20th century, Sitzenthal came to the Barons Hammerstein-Equord. The poet and politician Hans Hammerstein-Equord (d. 1947), who was born here in the castle, was Austrian Federal Minister of Justice in 1936 and a prisoner in the Mauthausen concentration camp after 1938. More about the story: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Sitzenthal
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Interesting chapel, which is located on a detour from the Dunkelsteinerwald circuit.
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Beautiful church in the Pielachtal, the Dunkelsteinerwald circuit leads past it.
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A beautiful castle above the Pielach, unfortunately not open to the public.
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Small church next to the Pielachtal cycle path, which some also call a chapel.
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Haunoldstein offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 150 easy routes that are perfect for families, alongside many moderate options for those seeking a bit more adventure.
The family-friendly hikes around Haunoldstein primarily traverse the rolling hills and dense woodlands of the Dunkelsteinerwald. You can expect well-maintained paths through natural forests, with some trails offering gentle ascents and descents. The region is known for its scenic beauty, providing a pleasant experience for all ages.
Yes, there are several easy and relatively short routes ideal for families with young children. For example, the Bründl Chapel loop from Haunoldstein is just over 3.6 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it a perfect choice for a leisurely family stroll.
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails in Haunoldstein are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. A great example is the Bründl Chapel loop from Haunoldstein, which offers a pleasant round trip through the local landscape.
Family hikes in Haunoldstein often lead to fascinating historical and natural sights. You can explore the ancient Sitzenthal Castle, or discover the serene Virgin Mary Grotto. The Fischer Cross - Old Oak – Parish Church of Haunoldstein loop, for instance, takes you past the historic Parish Church of Haunoldstein, an old fortified church from the 12th century.
Yes, for panoramic views, the Sierninger Kreuz (Sierning Cross) is a prominent viewpoint at 301 meters elevation, offering sweeping vistas across Haunoldstein and its surroundings. While not directly on all family routes, it's an accessible and rewarding stop for those looking for expansive scenery.
Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in the Haunoldstein region. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in forested areas or near wildlife, and to carry waste bags to maintain the cleanliness of the paths for everyone.
Spring, summer, and early autumn are ideal for family hiking in Haunoldstein. Spring brings blooming nature, summer offers warm weather for longer days, and autumn provides beautiful foliage. The mild temperatures during these seasons make for comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experiences.
Haunoldstein is part of the Mostviertel region, and while some trails might be accessible via local bus services, direct public transport access to all trailheads can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance or consider driving to the starting points, where parking is often available.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Haunoldstein, with an average score of 4.38 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the well-marked paths, and the charming historical points of interest that enrich the outdoor adventure for families.
Yes, the region is home to the scenic Pielach Gorge, which offers dramatic and visually appealing landscapes. While specific family-friendly routes directly through the deepest parts of the gorge might be more challenging, the Pielach River itself flows through nearby areas, providing clear waters and diverse flora and fauna to enjoy.


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