Summit the Schöckl – hiking trails on Graz’s local mountain

At 1,445 metres (4,740 ft), the Schöckl (or Schöckel) isn’t the highest of the Graz mountains, but it’s the closest to the Styrian capital and is considered THE local peak. With its distinctive shape and TV mast, you can’t miss it.

Many paths lead to Rome, and the same can be said for the Schöckl. Most hikers begin their ascent in the municipality of St. Radegund near Graz, but there are lots of other routes. In this Collection, I introduce you to three worthwhile, moderate hikes, each lasting between two and four hours.

Starting from Schöcklkreuz, the Classic Route is the most popular climb to Schöckl and is also the shortest. The Offside Route is a loop up from the ‘other’ side, to the north of the Schöckl, and is a lot quieter. Finally the Route Hike begins at the Schöcklkreuz cross, leads over the summit and descends into Stattegg. I recommend doing the hike in this direction as Stategg has more bus connections.

The Schöckl offers lots of opportunities for adventure, so it’s worth spending some time exploring the summit plateau. The area next to the MTB skills park is popular with downhill riders and paragliders and has a summer toboggan run (Hexenexpress).

You’ll be well taken care of in the mountainside huts, where you can enjoy their culinary delights and panoramic views.

If you’d prefer to hike one way, catch the Schöckl cable car, which operates year round and is another way to reach the panoramic mountain. You can get a lift to the top and then descend on foot, or vice versa.

You can also take the bus to the mountain. Although there’s plenty of parking available, travelling by public transport is more sustainable and still convenient. From Graz, the RegioBus 250 goes to Schöcklkreuz, and Stattegg has a bus back to the city. On the third Tour, you can even take advantage of a route hike and walk from stop to stop.

The Schöckl is waiting for you year round. What are you waiting for?