The mighty Dachstein with its glacier, skywalk, stairway to nowhere and ice palace is the highlight of the region. The gondola takes you up to 2,700 metres (reservation required).
Your holiday at Erzberg
Adventure, nature & mining history
The Erzberg near Eisenerz is one of Styria's most striking landmarks and Europe's largest active ore mining area. The terraced landscape, ongoing mining and alpine surroundings make the region unique. At the same time, the surrounding area offers plenty of nature and tranquillity with Lake Leopoldstein, the Präbichl and the Gesäuse National Park. The Erzberg is not a classic holiday destination, but a place for curious minds, nature lovers and adventure seekers, in summer and winter alike.
Our resorts in this region
Useful information
Where is the Erzberg located?
The Erzberg is located in Upper Styria near Eisenerz, around 35 kilometres from Leoben and around 70 kilometres from Liezen.
Is ore still mined at Erzberg today?
Yes. The Erzberg is an active mining area where iron ore continues to be extracted in open-cast mining.
Can you hike on the Erzberg and visit it?
Hiking is possible around the Erzberg on marked trails. The active mining area itself is only accessible as part of guided tours, e.g. in the exhibition mine.
Is Lake Leopoldstein suitable for families and swimmers?
Yes. The circular trail is child-friendly and flat, and swimming is permitted in summer. However, the water remains rather cool even on hot days. It is located slightly outside the town and is a popular area for cross-country skiing in winter. Ideal for active holidays without long travel times.
The Erzberg is Europe's largest active ore mining area. On guided tours, you can experience mining in action up close, including insights into technology, history and dimensions.
Leopoldsteinersee lake is located just a few minutes away from Eisenerz. A flat circular trail around the lake is approximately 4 kilometres long.
The Gesäuse National Park is just a short drive away and is synonymous with alpine wilderness. Steep rock faces, river valleys and unspoilt hiking trails make it one of the most impressive natural areas in Styria.
The Präbichl connects Eisenerz with the Gesäuse and is a year-round destination. In summer, hiking and panoramic trails invite you to explore, while in winter, small, manageable ski areas are available for relaxed winter sports.
The Wasserlochklamm gorge offers an impressive gorge hike with footbridges, bridges and waterfalls. The tour is well secured, varied and a popular destination, especially on warm days.
Useful information
Ore mountain & exhibition mine
The Erzberg is Europe's largest active ore mining area. On guided tours, you can experience mining in action up close, including insights into technology, history and dimensions.
Leopoldsteinersee
Leopoldsteinersee lake is located just a few minutes away from Eisenerz. A flat circular trail around the lake is approximately 4 kilometres long.
Eisenerz shift tower
The historic slag heap is one of Eisenerz's most striking landmarks. From the top, there is a sweeping view over the town and the Erzberg.
Präbichl
The Präbichl connects Eisenerz with the Gesäuse and is a year-round destination. In summer, hiking and panoramic trails invite you to explore, while in winter, small, manageable ski areas are available for relaxed winter sports.
Waterhole Gorge
The Wasserlochklamm gorge offers an impressive gorge hike with footbridges, bridges and waterfalls. The tour is well secured, varied and a popular destination, especially on warm days.
Gesäuse National Park
The Gesäuse National Park is just a short drive away and is synonymous with alpine wilderness. Steep rock faces, river valleys and unspoilt hiking trails make it one of the most impressive natural areas in Styria.
Your winter holiday at Erzberg
Winter fun in Styria away from the hustle and bustle
Winter at Erzberg is peaceful, alpine and deliberately different. Instead of mass tourism, you can expect snow-covered mountain landscapes, tranquil lakes, small ski resorts and extraordinary experiences centred around active mining. Winter hiking, snowshoeing and nature are the main attractions, complemented by skiing days at Präbichl and spectacular views of Europe's largest active ore mountain.
A manageable ski resort with short distances, panoramic views and a relaxed atmosphere for families and leisure skiers.
Cleared paths around Eisenerz and Lake Leopoldsteinersee allow for peaceful winter walks with views of snow-covered mountain scenery.
Away from the slopes, snowshoe trails lead through unspoilt landscapes around the Präbichl and towards the Gesäuse.
Natural toboggan runs and small slopes provide uncomplicated winter fun, especially popular with families.
Winter highlights at Erzberg
Useful information
Is the Erzberg region guaranteed to have snow?
Due to its alpine location and proximity to the Niedere Tauern mountains, winters are usually snowy, especially around Präbichl and the higher elevations.
Is the Erzberg suitable for families in winter?
Yes. Small ski resorts, winter hiking trails and short distances make the region family-friendly and easy to navigate.
Is there après-ski or nightlife?
No. Erzberg stands for peaceful winter holidays, nature and slowing down.
Your summer holiday at Erzberg
Relaxed mountain summer in Styria
Summer around the Erzberg and in Leoben is all about contrasts: alpine mountain scenery, tranquil waters, a lively town and extraordinary industrial nature. Between Leopoldsteinersee, Präbichl and Gesäuse, you will find ideal conditions for hiking, swimming, cycling and exploring. Leoben complements the natural experience with its old town, Mur promenade and thermal spa facilities. A summer holiday for active people, those seeking peace and quiet, families or even guests with dogs, flexible, close to nature and without mass tourism.
Around the Erzberg and on the Präbichl, panoramic and high-altitude trails offer views of the terraced landscape. The circular trail around Lake Leopoldsteinersee is also ideal for leisurely walks.
Leopoldsteinersee is the region's most popular swimming destination. The range of activities on offer is complemented by access to the Mur river near Leoben, other lakes and outdoor swimming pools in Eisenerz and Leoben.
Strolling through the old town, the Mur promenade, cafés and cultural attractions make Leoben the ideal contrast on hot days or when the weather is changeable.
The alpine wilderness begins just a short drive away: gorges, river landscapes and mountain tours in the Gesäuse offer intense experiences of nature.
Insider tips for your summer holiday in the Erzberg Region
Useful information
Is the Erzberg–Leoben region suitable for a summer holiday without a car?
Partly yes. Leoben is easily accessible by public transport, but a car is advantageous for Erzberg, Präbichl and Gesäuse.
Is there enough variety in summer to last several days?
Yes. Nature, city, lakes, industrial history and national park can be flexibly combined.
Are dogs allowed at Lake Leopoldstein?
Yes. Dogs are allowed. Dogs may swim in the peripheral areas, but consideration for other bathers is important.
Experience mining and the region
The Erzberg shapes the region like no other place. Active mining, an exhibition mine, Hauly rides and historic buildings make Eisenerz an extraordinary holiday destination between industrial history and alpine nature.
The Erzberg Rodeo is one of the world's most famous extreme enduro events and attracts international riders every year.
The Krone Erzberg Adventure Days combine outdoor sports, action and adventure around the Erzberg – with competitions, shows and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages.
The Area 53 Festival brings international rock and metal acts to Leoben and is one of the largest music festivals in Upper Styria.
The Mur Challenge combines adventure on the water with sporting competitions and experiences on land, an extraordinary event along the Mur river.
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