Attractions and Places To See around Paldau - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Paldau, a municipality in the Styrian Vulkanland region of Austria, offer a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. The area is characterized by its scenic surroundings, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Many notable points of interest are found in Paldau's immediate vicinity, including castles and natural monuments. This region provides a diverse landscape for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Paldau
- The most popular attractions is Gleichenberger Kogel (598 m) Ruins, a historical site and natural monument that features an extinct volcano. The path to the Kogel can be steep in places, but it rewards visitors with easy descents and pleasant views.
- Another must-see spot is Riegersburg Castle, an impressive castle and prominent landmark near Paldau. Visitors can reach the castle by foot or lift, enjoy guided tours, and take in the great views.
- Visitors also love Zotter Chocolate Factory, a chocolate factory located about 10.1 km from Paldau. It offers an experience celebrating chocolate, and its outdoor area is also very worth visiting.
- Paldau is known for its historical castles, natural features, and cultural sites. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to modern factories.
- The attractions around Paldau are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and 61 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Riegersburg Castle
Highlight • Castle
Easily accessible on foot or by lift. Various guided tours are possible. Possibility to stop at the castle tavern.
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Zotter Chocolate Factory
Highlight • Structure
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Volunteer Fire Station Bairisch Kölldorf
Highlight • Structure
There is also a campsite
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Gleichenberger Kogel (598 m) Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
Directions from Bad Gleichenberg, unfortunately, one finds on the roads leading to the Kogel, everywhere driving ban signs, the way to the Kogel ansich is sometimes a bit steep, untrained will not come around, push the bike sometimes. But you will be rewarded with casual runs.
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Kornberg Castle
Highlight • Castle
The fortified castle was first mentioned in a document in 1284.
300 years ago it was converted into a residential palace and has been in the possession of the Counts of Bardeau since 1871.
In addition to various events, Europe's largest carpet exhibition and the new exhibition "The small world of large castles", as well as the current special exhibition "The world of ships", can be visited in the Meierhof zu Schloss Kornberg (at the castle driveway). In the new planetarium, visitors can learn the latest about the universe, planets and stars.
The lord of the castle, consul Mag. Andreas Graf von Bardeau, offers guided tours of the castle, during which he personally leads through the private rooms of the castle. Upon request, there is a subsequent champagne reception with a fireplace chat.
Kornberg is also a popular wedding location, with a registry office and its own castle chapel.
In addition to wedding celebrations, the castle host also offers an a la carte restaurant, knight's dinner in the knight's hall and various events.
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Tips from the Community
The fire department building looks like a big fire engine
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The small town of Bairisch Kölldorf in the market town of Bad Gleichenberg has achieved a stroke of genius. Instead of building a purely functional armory like everyone else, the people of Bairisch Kölldorf created a landmark: the largest fire engine in the world, which isn't one at all! For many Floriani disciples and guests from near and far, the original armory, which has space for three fire engines and other equipment, is definitely worth a trip. "It's actually a normal brick-concrete building," explains Andreas Posch from the volunteer fire department, "only the facade is shaped like a fire engine." All of the “gimmicks” on the house such as indicators, blue lights, windshield wipers and headlights actually work. One attraction is the three-meter-tall fireman who sprays over the area every day from May to October at 11:45 a.m.
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Every time I go on the tour there is something new! I've now done the tour 7 times... But I'll never do the open day again! On the other hand, sardines have a lot of space... I would 100 times rather pay the entrance fee!
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The fire station in Bairisch Kölldorf is simply worth seeing
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well done, really a real highlight
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Very nice castle with a great view.
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Very nice view of the Riegersburg
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most prominent historical castles to visit near Paldau?
The region around Paldau is rich in historical castles. You can explore the impressive Riegersburg Castle, known for its commanding views and guided tours. Another significant site is Kornberg Castle, which hosts Europe's largest carpet exhibition and a planetarium. Additionally, Poppendorf Castle offers a glimpse into 17th-century architecture with its romantic chapel and large park.
Are there any unique culinary or family-friendly experiences in the Paldau region?
Absolutely! For a unique culinary experience, the Zotter Chocolate Factory, located about 10.1 km from Paldau, offers a sensational journey into the world of chocolate, with an outdoor area that is also very much worth visiting. For families, Kornberg Castle is family-friendly with its exhibitions and planetarium, and Styrassic Park, approximately 8.7 km away, is another popular attraction for all ages.
What natural landmarks or viewpoints can I explore around Paldau?
Nature enthusiasts can visit the Gleichenberger Kogel (598 m) Ruins, an extinct volcano offering rewarding views despite its steep paths. Near Poppendorf Castle, you'll find Austria's only accessible volcanic crater above the Kaskögerlweg path, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
What kind of outdoor activities are popular in the Paldau region?
The region around Paldau is excellent for various outdoor pursuits. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, mountain biking, road cycling, running, and gravel biking. The scenic surroundings provide a diverse landscape for exploration and active leisure.
Are there opportunities for hiking near Paldau's attractions?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. The path to the Gleichenberger Kogel (598 m) Ruins offers a rewarding hike with pleasant views. Additionally, the Kaskögerlweg path, which leads directly past Poppendorf Castle, takes you past Austria's only accessible volcanic crater. For more detailed routes, you can explore the Running Trails around Paldau guide, which also includes walking routes.
Can I go cycling or mountain biking in the Paldau area?
The Paldau region is well-suited for cycling and mountain biking. You can find numerous routes for touring bicycles in the Cycling around Paldau guide, with options ranging from easy to moderate. For mountain biking, the MTB Trails around Paldau guide offers moderate to difficult trails, including scenic loops like the 'View of Riegersburg – View of the Styrian Hills loop'.
What cultural or religious sites are located directly in Paldau or its immediate vicinity?
In Paldau itself, you can visit the Paldau Parish Church 'Hl. Vitus', which has origins dating back to around 1400. Nearby, the Saazkogelkirche is a popular venue for weddings and baptisms, and the Pöllau Village Chapel, dedicated to the Sorrowful Mother of God, features neo-Gothic altars. The Haselbach Chapel also underwent significant renovations and was consecrated in 1979.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Paldau?
Visitors frequently praise the impressive nature and historical significance of the area. For example, Riegersburg Castle is often described as a 'picture book castle' with great views. The Zotter Chocolate Factory is celebrated for its unique experience. Many also appreciate the 'casual runs' and beautiful hikes offered by natural spots like the Gleichenberger Kogel.
Are there dining options available at or near the castles in the Paldau region?
Yes, several castles offer dining facilities. Riegersburg Castle has a castle tavern. Kornberg Castle features a very good restaurant and offers 'knight meals' for groups. At Poppendorf Castle, you can find a cozy castle tavern that is popular with both regulars and day guests.
Is the Paldau region suitable for running?
Yes, the Paldau region offers various running trails. You can find several running loops, such as the 'Running loop from Gniebing' or the 'Urlasgang loop from Berndorf', which range from moderate to difficult in terms of challenge. More details can be found in the Running Trails around Paldau guide.
What is the Styrassic Park, and where is it located relative to Paldau?
Styrassic Park is a nearby attraction, located approximately 8.7 km from Paldau. While specific details about the park are not provided, it is noted as another point of interest in the region, often appealing to families.
Can I visit a volcanic crater near Paldau?
Yes, for hiking enthusiasts, Austria's only accessible volcanic crater is located above the Kaskögerlweg path, which leads directly past Poppendorf Castle. It offers a unique natural feature to explore.
Most popular attractions around Paldau
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