The best cycling routes around Mariazell

beautiful cycle path to the Kernhofer Gscheid

The basilica in Mariazell is beautiful and world-famous

The section along the Walster River is one of the most scenic parts of the Traisental Cycle Path (R13). It leads through the mountainous landscape of the Lower Austrian Prealps and, in its upper reaches, follows the Walster, a clear mountain stream that flows into the Traisen River near Annaberg. From Mariazell, the route initially descends gently through the idyllic Walster Valley, past dense forests, lush meadows, and quiet hamlets. The section along Lake Hubertus near Wienerbruck is particularly charming and offers a perfect spot for a short break. The path then continues along the Walster towards Annaberg, where the river joins the young Traisen. From here, the route leads through the narrow, wooded Traisen Valley down into the gentle Alpine foothills and finally to the state capital, St. Pölten. The route is well signposted and largely follows quiet side roads and cycle paths. It offers a diverse combination of alpine scenery, clear waters and cultural impressions – an ideal tour for experienced cyclists and nature lovers who want to enjoy the tranquil Walstertal valley.

The Luckertes Kreuz (holed cross) is a legendary memorial site in Austria, located about 1.5 km from Mariazell, on the Kreuzberg, next to the main road. ​It gets its name from the hole in the middle of the cross. According to popular belief, girls wishing to get married must pray through the hole nine times in order to find a good husband.

The Mariazell Basilica, officially the "Basilica of the Nativity of Mary," is considered Austria's most important pilgrimage site and is located 868 meters above sea level in the Styrian town of Mariazell. Its history begins in 1157, when, according to legend, the Benedictine monk Magnus erected a small linden wood statue of the Virgin Mary at this site – the miraculous image now venerated as the "Magna Mater Austriae." Over the centuries, these humble beginnings developed into a central Marian pilgrimage site for pilgrims from many parts of Central Europe, including Austria, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, and Croatia. The current building was built primarily between 1644 and 1683 in the Baroque style, incorporating Gothic elements from the predecessor, such as the high choir and the approximately 90-meter-high tower. Inside, visitors will find magnificent Baroque altars, fine stucco, and the central Chapel of Grace, with its Romanesque statue of the Virgin Mary, sumptuously decorated with silver and gold. In 1907, Pope Pius XI granted the church the title of "Basilica Minor," and in 1983, Pope John Paul II visited the famous pilgrimage site. Today, the basilica is not only a spiritual center but also a significant cultural monument, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.

Mariazell is one of Europe's most important pilgrimage sites, with a history spanning over 850 years, attracting pilgrims from all over Central Europe since the Middle Ages – including numerous cyclists on spiritual or historical routes. The impressive basilica, the Baroque architecture, and the location in the heart of the Alps make the town a fascinating destination for culture-loving cyclists.

Of the three chapels once built at the three city entrances, only St. Joseph's Chapel on Wiener Neustädter Straße remains. The chapels on Wiener Straße and Grazer Straße were "in the way" of car traffic.

It was very moving for me to arrive here after a 5-day pilgrimage from Vienna. A magnificent building with a rich history, simply beautiful.