WAB - Regional Route H: Kranichberger Schwaig - Kirchberg/Wechsel

Rax, Sonnwendstein, Schneeberg. We can hardly get enough of the Kranichberger Schwaig;  the view at the start of Regional Route H is splendid. However, our first target is another Schwaig. After going downhill slightly, we reach a gravel track and follow this northwards towards Steyersberger Schwaig (also marked in red). For the most part, the route goes downhill to Steyersberger Schwaig, a starting and meeting point for cross-country skiers in winter. We go past the Schwaig on the left and choose the right-hand fork, which goes downhill slightly in the direction of Kirchschlag. The path below the cables is extremely pleasant with lots of shadow and is largely slightly downhill. It has several waterways and the ghost tree also appears here. Many paths cross this hiking route, but we always remain on the designed route to Kirchberg. The descent down towards Kreuzbauern is somewhat steeper, and we continue along a track. After a sharp left-hand bend, we turn right from the track and wander downhill along a meadow path (marked in red) which soon goes down the right-hand side of a forest. We continue to descend towards Kirchberg, get to the edge of the village, and head further into it along the Postbach stream. At this point, we come across a road, cross the Feistritz on our right and soon reach the centre of Kirchberg am Wechsel.

It is possible to stay overnight at Gasthof Grüner Baum or to take the bus back either to Gloggnitz station or Aspang Markt station. Regional Route F is from Kirchberg to Grimmenstein and Maria Schnee, whilst Route G finishes at Mönichkirchner Schwaig and the destination of Route I is Maria Schutz.

Your hiking experience in the Vienna Alps should be a thoroughly enjoyable and safe one. Therefore, please bear the following in mind:

Preparation

When choosing a route, make sure it corresponds to your mountain experience and physical fitness level. Check the weather forecast before you set off. The weather can change surprisingly quickly in the mountains. Always take appropriate equipment with you (e.g. rain protection).

Check whether the cabins and snack stations you intend to visit along the way are open. Inform someone before you set off of your chosen route and when you plan to return.

Kranichberger Schwaig cannot be reached directly by public transport. It is recommended to combine this Regional Route with Route 8 from Mönichkirchen - Feistritz Saddle on the Viennese Alps trail. Take the train via Wiener Neustadt to Aspang Markt. Then take the bus from there to Mönichkirchen. Alternatively, it is possible to take a taxi to Feistritz Saddle from Gloggnitz railway station.

More information at www.oebb.at

You may like to hike the adjoining routes:

WAB - Regional Route G: Kirchberg/Wechsel - Mönichkirchner Schwaig

WAB - Regional Route I: Kirchberg/Wechsel - Maria Schutz

Viennese Alps in Lower Austria, www.wieneralpen.at, +43 / 2622 / 78960

Market town of Kirchberg am Wechsel, www.kirchberg-am-wechsel.at, +43 / 2641 / 2226