Übelbach – Hiking, waterways and history in the Graz Uplands

Old market tradition meets alpine diversity, silver history and natural idyll

The market town of Übelbach is located approximately 25 km northwest of Graz and is a traditional village at the transition between the Graz Uplands and the hills of western Styria. Known for its history as a mining and market town, Übelbach today offers a wide range of leisure activities centered around hiking, nature, water, and culture.

Characterized by wooded hills, clear streams and a historic town center with a baroque parish church, the place invites you to explore and relax – whether on a hike to the surrounding alpine pastures, on a bike tour along the Übelbach stream or on the trail of silver processing in the museum tunnel.

Thanks to its easy accessibility via the Pyhrn motorway or the S-Bahn, Übelbach is also an attractive destination for day trippers and short-term visitors seeking a combination of landscape, history and rural tranquility.

Hiking & nature experiences

• Signposted paths around the Gschwendtberg, alpine pastures and viewpoints
• Themed hiking trails such as the “Silver Hiking Trail” with stations on mining history
• Family-friendly routes along the Übelbach and through the Murtal

Cycling & exercise

• Connection to regional cycle paths and mountain bike trails
• quiet side roads and forest paths for relaxed tours
• Refreshment options at snack bars and restaurants along the route

Mining history & culture

• Silver mine museum tunnel with insights into the local mining past
• Baroque parish church of Übelbach – an art-historical gem in the town centre
• old blacksmith workshops, mills and restored farmhouses

Water, forest & recreation

• Idyllic spots along the Übelbach for resting, picnicking and cooling off
• small waterfalls, bridges and natural playgrounds
• regional products directly from the farm and at local markets

• 🚗 By car: approx. 25 minutes via the A9 (Übelbach exit)
• 🚆 By S-Bahn: S11 directly from Graz Hauptbahnhof – approx. 30 minutes
• 🚴 By bike: via Gratwein-Straßengel or Peggau along secondary routes

The history of Übelbach dates back to the 13th century, when the region was first documented. The name refers to the stream that flows through the town—a key element in the development of the settlement.

In the Middle Ages, Übelbach was an important location for Silver mining, iron processing, and trade. As early as 1462, the town was granted market rights—a fact still evident today in the structure of the center with its baroque parish church, market square, and historic inns.

Over the centuries, Übelbach has transformed from an industrial site into an agricultural and tourist-oriented town. Many old structures have been carefully restored and integrated into the present-day townscape – for example, the Silver mine, which can now be visited as a museum.

Today, Übelbach stands for natural recreation, a lively village life and a respectful connection between history and the present.