Thal – nature, culture and world-famous roots at the gates of Graz

Hike, discover and relax – at Lake Thalersee, in the museum or between forest trails

Only 7 km west of Graz city centre lies the market town Thal – nestled in a gently rolling landscape with forest trails, views, and cultural highlights. The town is not only a local recreation area for many Graz residents, but also internationally renowned: Arnold Schwarzenegger, film icon and former governor of California, was born here.

But Thal has much more to offer than just celebrities. Thalersee is one of the most popular lakes in the area – surrounded by walking paths, lawns and forest. The colorful St. James Church, designed by artist Ernst Fuchs, attracts visitors just as much as the Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum, which was set up in the actor's birthplace.

The offering is rounded out by a well-developed network of hiking and cycling trails – ideal for short breaks in the countryside. If you want to combine nature with culture, Thal is the place to be.

Thalersee & local recreation

• quiet lake with walking paths, boat rentals and restaurants
• shady forest paths, sunny meadows and numerous seating areas
• particularly popular with families, athletes and those seeking relaxation

Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum

• The world's only museum about the life and work of the native Thaler
• Authentic insights into childhood, bodybuilding, Hollywood and politics
• authentically furnished in the birthplace

St. James' Church & Ernst Fuchs Design

• late Baroque church with spectacular interior design
• Redesign by the Viennese fantasist Ernst Fuchs in the 1990s
• popular destination for art and architecture lovers

Hiking & Cycling

• numerous hiking trails in the hilly surroundings around Lake Thaler
• well-signposted routes for walks, trail running or half-day tours
• Connection to cycle tours towards Gösting, Eggenberg or Andritz

• 🚗 By car: about 15 minutes via Wetzelsdorf or Eggenberg
• 🚌 Public transport: Regional lines 140/141 from Graz main station or Gösting
• 🚴 By bike: via Murradweg, Plabutsch or side roads west of Graz

The origins of the community date back to the High Middle Ages. The first traces of settlement probably date back to the Carolingian period, but its documented history begins in the 10th century.

Over the centuries, Thal has been characterized primarily by agriculture and its proximity to the city of Graz. A historical centerpiece is the Unterthal Castle, which was built as a defensive structure in the 13th century. It changed hands several times and was abandoned in the 17th century – today only the remains of the walls bear witness to its past.

A new chapter was written in 1947 – with the birth of Arnold Schwarzenegger, whose worldwide success unexpectedly brought Thal international attention. The establishment of the museum in 2011 honored his life's work and his origins.

Since 1995, Thal has been officially market town and has since combined nature, art and history with a strong self-confidence – a charming place with many faces.