About Semmering
About Semmering
Semmering
Hirschenkogel
Your Mountain, Your Moment.
Nestled in the heart of the Viennese Alps, Semmering is a premier mountain resort and health destination, ideally located on the border of Lower Austria and Styria. Just an hour’s drive from Vienna and Graz, its central location and excellent accessibility make it a top choice for unforgettable year-round getaways. The Semmering mountain pass, standing 984 meters high, connects the majestic Raxalpe in the north with the Wechselgebirge in the south. At its highest point, the Semmering Hirschenkogel rises to 1,340 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking panoramic views and endless opportunities for adventure.
In winter, Semmering transforms into a snowy paradise with impeccably groomed slopes, night skiing, and a thrilling 3-kilometer adventure toboggan run. In the summer months, the bike park and forest ropes course provide exhilarating activities for visitors of all ages. Beyond its natural beauty and modern attractions, Semmering carries a rich history as a favored retreat of Austrian aristocracy and a gathering place for renowned artists and thinkers during imperial times. This legacy of elegance and creativity continues to shape its unique charm, blending leisure, culture, and adventure. Whether you are seeking a peaceful escape or an action-packed holiday, Semmering offers the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation, promising unforgettable memories in an extraordinary setting.
UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Semmering
railway
On the trail of Carl Ritter von Ghega
The historic Semmering Railway, built 170 years ago, stretches 41 kilometers from Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag and was masterminded by the visionary engineer Carl Ritter von Ghega. As the world’s first mountain railway, completed in 1854, it holds a significant place in engineering history and was honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. Today, this remarkable railway line is considered one of Austria’s most scenic train routes.
The Semmering Railway ascends an impressive 457 meters in altitude with an average gradient of 20 per thousand. Along its journey, it passes through 15 tunnels, crosses 16 viaducts, traverses more than 100 arched stone bridges, and gracefully winds its way up the mountain in sweeping curves. This architectural marvel combines breathtaking views with a fascinating legacy, making it a must-see for railway enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Viennese Alps
Vienna Alps, also known as the Viennese Alpine Arc, are part of Northern Limestone Alps and are located close to Austria’s capital, Vienna. Starting from the rolling hills of the Bucklige Welt in the southern Vienna Basin, the landscape rises through the alpine meadows of Wechsel and Semmering, reaching its highest peaks with Rax and Schneeberg before curving back down past Hohe Wand to Wiener Neustadt.
For centuries, the Vienna Alps have been a place of inspiration and relaxation. Once a retreat for poets and thinkers, it now offers visitors the chance to experience the beauty of nature and breathtaking views. From the historic Semmering Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to world-class festivals, there’s something for everyone. A variety of hiking and themed trails invite you to explore the stunning surroundings, while cozy and welcoming accommodations range from elegant hotels to charming family farms. Local inns, restaurants, and mountain huts serve delicious regional specialties, making your stay truly unforgettable.
Culture Summer Semmering
Semmering is not only known for its sporting attractions but also offers a rich cultural programme for its guests. Every summer, the “Kultur.Sommer.Semmering” festival hosts unique cultural events across all genres, featuring renowned performers. The historic Grand Hotel Panhans and the newly built cultural pavilion serve as the main venues for these events. The artistic director is Austrian pianist and conductor Florian Krumpöck, who, alongside managing director Nina Sengstschmid, invites the audience to experience the cultural legacy of the past. At the turn of the century, figures like Arthur Schnitzler, Alma Mahler, Stefan Zweig, and many others traveled to Semmering for a summer retreat.
