Vasoldsberg – castles, orchards and quiet paths in the hilly country

Relaxation between culture, nature and regional architecture in the southeast of Graz

Vasoldsberg is located just 15 km southeast of the state capital Graz and is one of the most historic communities in the Graz area. The market town is particularly known for its two castles – Vasoldsberg and Klingenstein – as well as the listed Achteckstadl (Octagonal Barn), a unique example of rural architectural history.

Surrounding the historic buildings, a gently rolling landscape with woodlands, meadows, and orchards invites you to take long walks and bike rides. Family-friendly hiking trails and well-maintained secondary roads lead through a harmonious landscape dotted with well-kept farms, small chapels, and viewpoints.

Anyone who wants to combine outdoor activity with regional culture and a touch of history will find Vasoldsberg to be a relaxing destination with a lot to tell – and one that is constantly evolving, for example with plans for a new nature and leisure park.

Hiking & walking in the hills

• Circular trails through forests and over hills with views of the eastern Styrian foreland
• gentle climbs, well-signposted routes and quiet picnic areas
• Orchards, natural gardens and regionally influenced cultural landscapes

Castles & Architecture

• Vasoldsberg Castle: Renaissance building from the 16th century, today an event and wedding location
• Klingenstein Castle with its protected castle park and exceptional tree population
• Klingensteiner Achteckstadl: listed granary with artistic brick architecture

Leisure & regional hospitality

• family restaurants, direct marketers and seasonal markets
• small events in the castle park or in local cultural spaces
• Cycling and MTB routes via Laßnitzhöhe, Gössendorf or Hausmannstätten

• 🚗 By car: approx. 20 minutes via A2 or B73 (exit Laßnitzhöhe or Hausmannstätten)
• 🚌 Public transport: Bus connections from Graz Jakominiplatz or main station
• 🚴 By bike: Connection to local cycle routes through the southeastern surrounding area

The history of Vasoldsberg is closely linked to the castle of the same name, which was first documented in the 13th century. Originally a fortified structure owned by the Bishops of Seckau, it was rebuilt in the Renaissance style in the 16th century. After a turbulent history and various ownerships, it served as a convalescent home for Steyr Daimler Puch AG in the 20th century before being privatized in the 1980s.

Equally historically significant is the Klingenstein Castle, which was built in the second half of the 17th century. It is surrounded by a spacious castle park, which is now a nature reserve due to its diverse old tree population.

A special architectural jewel is the Klingensteiner Achteckstadl – a granary with an octagonal floor plan from the 19th century. It was the first rural building in Austria to be listed as a historical monument and remains a symbol of the region's rural architecture to this day.

With the project “History – Contemporary Witnesses,” Vasoldsberg also documented a comprehensive collection of memories and stories from the community between 2019 and 2022 – as an illustrated book and digital archive.