Werndorf – Murauen, village life and movement at the gates of Graz

Walk, cycle and breathe a sigh of relief between floodplain forests and community

The market town Werndorf Located approximately 15 km south of Graz, it borders directly on the Mur River—embedded in a pristine landscape characterized by floodplain forests, meadows, and quiet paths. Here, natural habitats meet a functioning village community, and historical roots meet modern infrastructure.

Werndorf is ideal for day trips or short nature breaks in the south of Styria. Of particular note is the Murauen Landscape Conservation Area, which with its old trees, waterways and rich wildlife is one of the most valuable recreational areas in the greater Graz area.

Numerous cycling and hiking trails, family-friendly walking paths, a herb trail, and recreational areas with play and sports facilities make the area attractive for active people, families, and those seeking peace and quiet. The offerings are complemented by small events, community projects, and sites of historical significance, such as the chapel and the bicycle museum.

Hiking & walking trails

• well-signposted paths through the Murauen nature reserve
• Herbal walks, observation points and natural paths along the Mur
• Quiet paths through fields and floodplain forests – ideal for families and nature lovers

Cycling & exercise

• direct connection to the Mur cycle path (R2)
• popular route for leisurely cyclists and nature tours south of Graz
• Rest areas at restaurants, farm shops and at the Werndorf fishpond

Culture & Village Life

• Werndorf Chapel – a historical gem and identity-forming place
• Neumühle Bicycle Museum with collections of old bicycles and technology
• Events such as the Werndorf village festival, maypole raising or farmers' markets

• 🚗 By car: about 20 minutes via the A9 (exit Wundschuh or Wildon)
• 🚆 By S-Bahn: Line S5 directly from Graz Hauptbahnhof – approx. 20 minutes
• 🚴 By bike: flat connection via the Mur cycle path or side roads towards Kalsdorf and Wagna

The first documented mention of Werndorf dates back to the year 1144 under the name ZuwerendorfIn a donation to Rein Abbey, the place was documented as a farming settlement on the edge of the Mur floodplains. For centuries, the Rein Pen the dominant landlord until the abolition of the manorial system in 1848.

After several territorial reforms, Werndorf initially belonged to the municipality of Kalsdorf, but soon developed a strong independence. Due to repeated disputes and growing self-awareness, Werndorf was incorporated into the municipality in 1917 elevated to an independent municipality.

Since then, Werndorf's development has been characterized by its proximity to major transportation routes, the development of infrastructure, and the preservation of village life. To this day, the community maintains its history, including through preserved chapels, the bicycle museum, and historic landforms. At the same time, Werndorf is focused on the future: with modern S-Bahn connections, educational opportunities, sustainable spatial planning, and local recreation.