Barrier-reduced circular route along the impressive Erlauf Reservoir in Mitterbach!
Description
The route starts in Mitterbach at Erlauf Reservoir, so traveling by Mariazellerbahn is suitable. From the station, the path initially follows the federal road to the edge of town and to the nature park entrance in Mitterbach. The Erlauf Reservoir tavern invites you for a rest here; nature park entrance fees can also be paid. The pleasant path then follows along the lakeshore, always with the crystal-clear water in view. After a short distance, the Water Experience Trail offers a nice, small detour to get to know wells, biotopes, and fish species more closely. Caution, however, this path is just a normal, narrow forest trail! Just before reaching the west bank of the fjord-like reservoir, the path turns off. Via the Kapschhof, a farm with a beautiful view, it leads back to the town of Mitterbach.
Starting point of the tour
Mitterbach train station
Destination point of the tour
Mitterbach train station
Route description Mitterbach - Erlauf Reservoir - Kapschhof - Mitterbach
In the town of Mitterbach, start heading north towards the entrance of the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park (opposite the sawmill). Next to the Erlauf Reservoir, follow a marked path along the nature trail towards Hagenstraße. After about 45 minutes, take a turn east and the path continues via Spielmäuer, Gspenst, and Kapschgasse back to Seestraße and then to Mitterbach.
Directions
Coming from Linz: A1 motorway; exit Ybbs; towards Wieselburg and Scheibbs (approx. 1.5 hours from Linz)
Coming from Vienna: A1 motorway; exit St. Pölten via Pielachtal (approx. 1.5 hours from Vienna)
Coming from Styria (Graz): S35 towards Leoben to Bruck/Mur junction, B116 to Kapfenberg, B20 towards Mariazell
Parking
There are paid parking spaces available at the entrance to the nature park - €5/day. The revenue from parking management benefits the maintenance of the nature park. (coin payment only at the parking meter)
Mariazellerbahn from St. Pölten or Mariazell to Mitterbach
Author's tip
A short detour to the water path is especially worthwhile on hot days!
