Sankt Marein near Graz – nature, exercise and history in the Eastern Styrian hills

Hiking, cycling and enjoying – between Lilienbad, vineyards and Gothic churches

Sankt Marein bei Graz is located approximately 20 km east of Graz and nestled in the rolling hills of Eastern Styria. This market town is a popular destination for those seeking to combine active recreation, scenic diversity, and cultural discovery.

The Lilienbad natural swimming pool, numerous hiking and cycling trails, and the historic churches and castle grounds make Sankt Marein a worthwhile destination for families, sports enthusiasts, and those interested in culture. Culinary delights await the region, with rustic wine taverns, regional products, and Styrian wine.

Hiking & nature experiences

• Signposted circular routes through forests, fields and the Eastern Styrian hills
• Popular destinations: Prüfingbach Loop, scenic routes around Petersdorf
• gentle slopes, streams, rest areas with views

Cycling & Mountain Biking

• regional cycle paths for families and touring cyclists
• “Backhendltour” & “Buschenschank-Tour” as gourmet tours through the surrounding area
• Connection to the Raabtal cycle path and the southeast Styrian network of paths

Lilienbad & Leisure Activities

• spacious natural pool with slide, pool buffet and children's playground
• Beach volleyball court and shady lawns
• Open during the summer months – ideal for families

Culture & Sacred Building

• Parish Church of St. Marein am Pickelbach (documented in 1224) – late Gothic choir, Baroque high altar
• Filial Church of the Fourteen Holy Helpers in Petersdorf II – pilgrimage site from the 16th century
• Prankh Castle – Renaissance building and former noble residence

Culinary & Wine

• regional specialties in the numerous Buschenschänken
• Hillside vineyards, seasonal regional products
• many farms with their own agriculture and farm sales

• 🚗 By car: approx. 25 minutes via A2, A9 and B68
• 🚌 Bus connections from Graz via Laßnitzhöhe, Gleisdorf or Nestelbach
• 🚴 By bike: via Raabtalradweg, Petersdorf or the southeast Styrian side routes

The first documented mention of Sankt Marein am Pickelbach dates back to 1224. The Gothic parish church was badly damaged in the 15th century and rebuilt from 1550 onwards. The area was long dominated by agriculture and was one of the most important churches in the region.

As part of the Styrian municipal structural reform, Sankt Marein was awarded Krumegg and Petersdorf II to form the new municipality. Since then, Sankt Marein bei Graz has been not only the administrative center, but also a cultural and tourist center in the eastern outskirts of Graz.