Best attractions and places to see around Spittal an der Drau include historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and cultural sites. Located in Carinthia, Austria, Spittal offers a blend of experiences from Renaissance architecture to alpine scenery. The region is characterized by its position near the Drau River and proximity to lakes and mountains. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests.
Last updated: June 20, 2026
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probably go down to lysyfran reservoir and check that out as well, then up to maenchlochog from there miss seies of long hills to new moat onwards
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The ruins that lie ivy-cloaked amongst the trees here are said to have originally been a nunnery or a hospice for women in the Middle Ages. However, it's more likely that the buildings date to the 17th century and were used as a private residence before being sold as a farm and then left in ruins. The site is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and you can't enter it but you can see it from the trail.
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Blackpool Mill, after being sadly neglected for years is currently being renovated. The plans will see a heritage restaurant open at the Mill welcoming visitors all year round serving lunches, cream teas and dinner. Watch this space!
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Blackpool Mill, sadly neglected for years is currently being renovated. The plans will see a heritage restaurant open at the Mill welcoming visitors all year round serving lunches, cream teas and dinner. Watch this space!
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Llawhaden is a little known castle-cum-mansion that is sure to stay in your memory. Most impressive of all is the front of the gatehouse, added in the later 14th century, still standing to its full height. Cycling isn't permitted on the access road to the castle, so you will need to park & lock-up your bike at the car park and walk the final few hundred metres to the castle itself.
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Although it’s impressive from the riverside, very little of the castle remains other than the outside wall. Several towers on the south east and south west corners are still standing but there’s no access to the ramparts. The town museum can also be found in a building inside the outer keep of the Castle. Entry is £2, Open Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Spittal an der Drau boasts several significant historical landmarks. The most prominent is Schloss Porcia, a magnificent Renaissance castle housing the Museum of Folk Culture. Other notable sites include the Khevenhüller City Palace, the historic Stadtpfarrkirche "Maria Verkündigung", and the intriguing Ruins of Ortenburg Castle nearby. You can also visit the Sisters' House Ruins, which are a Scheduled Ancient Monument visible from a trail.
Yes, Spittal offers several unique cultural experiences. Inside Schloss Porcia, you'll find the Museum of Folk Culture, providing deep insights into Upper Carinthian history. The Adventure World Railway on Neuen Platz features an unusual model railway. Additionally, the Parkschlössl serves as a cultural forum showcasing local artists, and in Molzbichl, you can explore the 1st Carinthian Crafts Museum.
The region around Spittal is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Lake Millstatt, Carinthia's second-largest lake, perfect for water activities. The impressive Ragga Gorge and Waterfalls offer a stunning natural spectacle with an accessible path. Goldeck Mountain provides panoramic views and is accessible by cable car, while the Drau River Landscape and Floodplains offer serene vistas and cross-country skiing in winter.
Absolutely. The area around Spittal is excellent for outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore trails near natural features like Lake Millstatt or Goldeck Mountain. There are also numerous routes for cycling. For detailed routes and guides, you can check out the Hiking around Spittal and Cycling around Spittal guides.
Families visiting Spittal have several great options. The Drautalperle is a modern water and sauna park perfect for all ages. The Museum of Folk Culture in Schloss Porcia offers engaging exhibits. For outdoor fun, Llys-y-fran Reservoir and Dam is a family-friendly lake area, and Pocket Park provides green space and a skate park. Many natural areas like Lake Millstatt and Goldeck Mountain also offer activities suitable for families.
The best time to visit Spittal an der Drau largely depends on your preferred activities. For hiking and water sports on Lake Millstatt, the warmer months from June to October are ideal. The Ragga Gorge is typically open during this period. For winter sports like skiing on Goldeck Mountain or cross-country skiing along the Drau River, December to March would be most suitable.
Beyond Schloss Porcia, Spittal offers several architectural gems. The Khevenhüller City Palace is a notable Renaissance building. The Petzlbräu stands out with its remarkable late Baroque-Josephinian facade decoration from around 1780. The Schüttpacher Stadthaus is a characteristic bourgeois house from the 16th century, showcasing the era's architectural style.
Yes, there are several options for easy walks and short hikes. The paths along the Drau River Landscape offer panoramic views. Around Lake Millstatt, you'll find pleasant lakeside strolls. For specific easy hiking routes, you can refer to the Hiking around Spittal guide, which lists routes like the 'Llys y Fran Dam and Reservoir – Llys-y-frân Reservoir Circular loop'.
The Granattor Monument is a unique iron passage filled with tons of garnet rocks, telling the story of this ruby-red gemstone and hinting at the largest garnet deposit in the Alps. It is a popular attraction located in the district of Spittal an der Drau, offering a distinctive cultural and geological insight.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical and natural beauty. For instance, Haverfordwest Castle is admired for its impressive exterior and the town museum it houses. The ongoing renovation of Blackpool Mill, with plans for a heritage restaurant, generates excitement. Many also enjoy the serene setting of Pocket Park with its river views and green spaces, as well as the historical intrigue of sites like the Sisters' House Ruins.
Yes, for those who enjoy running, there are various trails in the vicinity. Many routes offer scenic views, especially around natural features like lakes and rivers. You can find detailed information and specific routes in the Running Trails around Spittal guide, which includes options like the 'Llys-y-fran Reservoir loop'.
Yes, the town itself offers several insights into its history. The Stadtpfarrkirche "Maria Verkündigung" marks the city's origin. The Museum of Folk Culture in Schloss Porcia provides comprehensive historical context. Additionally, The Spittl, originally a hospital from 1539, now houses the Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, reflecting its long-standing presence in the town's development. The artistic representation Der Malbaum visually depicts Spittal's history from Celtic and Roman times to the present.


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