Gratkorn – green, lively and close to the city

A place to breathe and discover – north of Graz

Between wooded hills, the Mur and gentle alpine pastures lies the market town Gratkorn, only about 15 minutes north of GrazThe place offers an exciting mix of Nature, culture, industrial history and leisure – embedded in a picturesque environment with a village character and urban infrastructure.

Gratkorn is the perfect place for anyone who wants a quiet, nature-oriented day trip plan – or for families, cyclists and walkers who new favorite places just outside Graz want to discover.

Hiking & Cycling

Gratkorn is an ideal starting point for circular hiking trails, walks along the Mur River, or extended tours into the surrounding hills. Particularly popular:

• the Gratkorn circular trail with panoramic views over the Murtal
• the pilgrimage route Mariatrost–Gratkorn, which leads past chapels, forests and orchards
• the nearby entrance to the Mur Cycle Path (R2), which continues through Gratwein, Peggau or to Frohnleiten

Culture & Events

Gratkorn has a vibrant cultural scene with concerts, theater performances, and seasonal festivals—for example, in the modern Gratkorn Cultural Hall or at events organized by local clubs. The music center, the library, and the beautiful local park with its pond are also central meeting places for locals and visitors.

Industrial History & Modernity

As the home of the long-established Sappi Gratkorn company, the community looks back on a long industrial history. Interested parties can learn more about the development of paper production, life in the factory district, and the transformation into a modern market town through local initiatives.

Culinary & regional products

Gratkorn offers a diverse culinary scene – from traditional inns to modern cafés. Weekly markets and farm shops offer regional specialties, fresh produce from the farm, and homemade products.

• 🚗 By car: approx. 15 minutes north of Graz via the A9
• 🚆 By train: from Graz main station with the S-Bahn S1, in approx. 20 minutes
• 🚲 By bike: along the Mur cycle path, approx. 60 minutes (depending on the route)

The origins of Gratkorn date back to the Celtic-Roman period In the Middle Ages, the area continued to develop due to its location on old trade routes and its proximity to Gratwein and Rein Abbey. The construction of the paper mill in the 18th century marked a turning point for the community and made Gratkorn an important industrial center in the region.

Today, Gratkorn is a modern market town with a strong sense of community, cultural diversity and high recreational value – a bridge between town and country, between past and present.