Social Hike: Beethoven's Backyard

Be inspired like Beethoven, who roamed these hills in 1814. After gathering at Vienna Main Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof) we'll catch a 20-minute train to a quaint municipality just outside Vienna. A short walk will lead us straight through town and up to its thick walled neo-Gothic church. There, we start our proper ~2 hours hike up and around this picturesque mountain with its token 12th-century castle, which also starred in Stephen Herek's "The Three Musketeers". Expect a lush pine forest, magnificent views and impressive medieval architecture.

Underway we'll have fun with ice breakers, discussion prompts and local trivia.

HIGHLIGHTS

• 15h century parish church
• Roman-style amphitheatre
• Impressive castle built in the 1200's
• Pepper tin chapel ruins
• Stone tower
• City stroll

After the hike we'll take a leisurely stroll through the medieval city center before hopping back on the train to Vienna Main Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof).

Your host is an outward-thinking local who lived in three cultures on two continents. Fluent in 7½ languages, he visited more than 40 countries (incl. places like Port Harcourt or Pyongyang) and loves sharing off-beat travel stories. Ask him anything!

Total time: ~3½ hours

Language: English

Wear: Firm shoes, rain gear depending on weather

Price includes train tickets, beverage and friendly host. Discount available for train pass holders (ÖBB-Klimaticket/Interrail) and Ukrainian nationals - for details please send us an e-mail to team@ixpat.com