Österreichischer Weitwanderweg 07 (Eastern Way)
Österreichischer Weitwanderweg 07 (Eastern Way): Complete Guide to Austria’s Long-Distance Hiking Trail
Stretching across the picturesque heart of Austria, the Österreichischer Weitwanderweg 07 (Eastern Way) invites adventurers to traverse a diverse tapestry of landscapes and cultures. This epic long-distance trail meanders from the idyllic rolling hills and lush forests of the Austrian countryside, through charming villages, historical towns, and bustling cities, all the way to the eastern border of the country. Along the way, hikers are treated to ever-changing scenery — from sprawling meadows filled with wildflowers in the spring, to the dramatic backdrop of mountainous ridges, green valleys, and tranquil riverbanks.
The Eastern Way offers not only natural beauty but also a chance to connect with Austria’s rich heritage, passing by centuries-old castles, traditional farmhouses, and vibrant market squares. Whether you’re seeking the serenity of quiet woodland paths or the exhilaration of panoramic mountain views, this trail delivers a rewarding journey filled with unforgettable sights and authentic Austrian hospitality.
Route Overview
The Österreichischer Weitwanderweg 07 (Eastern Way) is a point-to-point trail beginning in Vienna, Austria’s capital, and extending approximately 820 kilometers eastward to the town of Bad Radkersburg on the border with Slovenia. The route is typically completed in about 35 days, with hikers passing through a wide variety of landscapes, towns, and regions. Major locations along the trail include Vienna, the Vienna Woods (Wienerwald), Semmering, Wiener Neustadt, Hartberg, the Styrian Thermenland, Güssing, and various rural villages before reaching the trail’s endpoint in Bad Radkersburg.
Trail conditions vary from paved urban paths and rural roads to dirt, gravel, and rocky tracks in forested and mountainous areas, with some steeper and more rugged sections in the Vienna Woods, Semmering, and Schneeberg regions. Lower-lying areas in Burgenland and Styria offer gentler terrain, while the approach to the eastern border features rolling hills and open fields. Trail signage and waymarking are generally good but may become sparse in remote stretches, so hikers should be prepared with detailed maps or GPS navigation.
Throughout the journey, amenities are accessible in larger towns and some villages, but certain segments require careful planning for food, lodging, and water due to longer distances between settlements or services. Hikers should be aware that weather and trail conditions can change rapidly, with spring, summer, and autumn being the optimal seasons for undertaking the full route.
The Österreichischer Weitwanderweg 07 (Eastern Way) is one of Austria’s celebrated long-distance hiking routes and is a product of post-World War II enthusiasm for reconnecting with the natural and cultural landscapes of the country. Launched in the 1970s as part of a national network of Weitwanderwege, its creation was intended to promote not only physical endurance but also a greater appreciation of Austria’s regional diversity. Over the decades, it has become a route that binds the various provinces of Austria together, highlighting the changing face of Central Europe as borders, languages, and customs evolved.
Along its extensive course, the trail passes through areas steeped in history—from ancient Roman roads and medieval market towns to former battlegrounds that have shaped Austria’s destiny. Hikers can follow in the footsteps of merchants, pilgrims, and soldiers who historically traveled these paths, bearing witness to the stories imprinted on the land. The trail also offers frequent encounters with local traditions, architectural landmarks, and relics that provide a tangible link to past centuries, allowing each traveler to experience a living connection to Austria’s historical heritage.
Notable highlights
- Vienna: Begin or end your journey in Austria’s vibrant capital, home to imperial palaces, world-class museums, and lively coffeehouse culture. The city’s historical sights and urban parks make for an inspiring trailhead.
- Danube River Valley: Traverse scenic river landscapes, stopping to admire picturesque vineyards and the iconic Wachau region, renowned for its charming villages and medieval castles perched above the water.
- Wienerwald (Vienna Woods): Explore the rolling hills and serene forests west of Vienna, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve filled with diverse flora, tranquil hiking paths, and sweeping vistas over the city and surrounding countryside.
- Semmering Railway Region: Cross the famed Semmering Pass, marveling at the historic railway—a UNESCO World Heritage site—winding through alpine landscapes, viaducts, and tunnels.
- Schneeberg Mountain: Reach one of the highest peaks along the trail, offering breathtaking panoramas and a chance to experience rugged alpine terrain, especially popular for its views and lush meadows.
- Historic Market Towns: Pass through centuries-old settlements such as Baden, Wiener Neustadt, and Hartberg, each featuring cobblestone streets, ancient fortifications, and lively local culture.
- Styria’s Forested Hills: Walk through the "Green Heart" of Austria, where dense forests and rolling hills abound. Traditional Styrian villages along the trail offer authentic Austrian cuisine and hospitality.
- Thermal Spa Regions: Enjoy well-deserved rest stops in spa towns like Bad Waltersdorf and Bad Radkersburg, where thermal springs and wellness centers provide relaxation after long days of hiking.
- Burg Güssing: Encounter the impressive Güssing Castle in southern Burgenland, Austria’s oldest hilltop castle, which dominates the landscape and reveals centuries of regional history.
- Borderland Landscapes: Conclude your journey at Austria’s eastern border, where open fields and gentle hills transition towards Hungary and Slovenia, symbolizing the trail’s role as both a national journey and a gateway to Central Europe.
Challenges to expect
The Österreichischer Weitwanderweg 07 (Eastern Way) covers a vast range of terrains and climate zones, so hikers should prepare for physically demanding sections, especially in the mountainous and hilly segments such as the Wienerwald, Semmering, and Schneeberg regions. Steep ascents, long daily distances, and rocky or uneven pathways can test even seasoned trekkers. Good physical fitness and endurance are recommended, as some areas involve sustained elevation changes over several kilometers.
Weather on the trail can be highly variable, particularly in spring and autumn. Hikers should be prepared for sudden rain showers, temperature drops at higher altitudes, and, at times, muddy or slippery trails. Summer months can also bring heatwaves in lowland and urban areas, increasing the risk of dehydration and sun exposure, while exposed mountain stretches may have limited shade.
Navigation may be challenging in remote or forested areas where signage is less frequent or trails intersect. It’s advisable to use updated maps or GPS navigation and check route descriptions carefully, especially in rural or less-traveled segments. Additionally, as the route often passes through small villages and countryside, services such as grocery stores or accommodations may be sparse, requiring careful planning for food, water, and overnight stays, particularly in the less populated eastern sections.
Austria - Mountainous
- Forest
- Urban
- Paved
- Gravel
- Dirt
- Rocky
- Hotels
- Huts
- Campsites
- Hostels
- Wild camping spots
- Family Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Restrooms
- Water Sources
- Campsites
- Shelters
- Picnic Areas
Start your journey in the heart of Vienna, departing from the city center through bustling streets and city parks. As you move west, the route transitions into quieter suburban neighborhoods before climbing gradually into the verdant Vienna Woods. The day's walk concludes in Rodaun, a charming suburb nestled at the foot of the Wienerwald hills.
Leave Rodaun and ascend into the depths of the Vienna Woods, following forested trails with occasional clearings that reveal sweeping city views. The path winds through peaceful woodland, past small streams and meadows, arriving in the tranquil village of Kaltenleutgeben.
Continue south along woodland paths, crossing gentle hills and passing through the small communities dotted throughout the Wienerwald. Today’s highlight is your approach to the historic Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz, nestled deep in the forest.
Descend from the forested hills of Heiligenkreuz toward Baden, a celebrated spa town known for its historic architecture and soothing thermal waters. The path strolls past vineyards and through more open landscapes as you near Baden.
Travel southeast over undulating farmland and through small towns, leaving the hills behind. Today’s destination is Wiener Neustadt, a vibrant regional center with a medieval heart and lively town square.
Follow quiet village roads and rural tracks as you move toward the foothills of the Schneeberg massif. Enjoy expanding mountain views before reaching Puchberg am Schneeberg, the gateway to one of Austria’s most iconic peaks.
Begin your approach to the high alpine zone with a short but demanding ascent, passing through forests and alpine pastures. You reach Losenheim, a small settlement at the base of the Schneeberg slopes.
Tackle a challenging mountain stretch with sustained climbing, rocky paths, and open meadows, offering panoramic views. Descend through alpine woods to reach the village of Prein an der Rax.
Descend from the highlands, skirting the edge of the Rax massif, on forested paths. The route follows river valleys and old railway tracks, concluding in the historic town of Mürzzuschlag.
Continue through Styrian woodlands, passing small hamlets and farmsteads nestled among rolling hills. Today’s walk is more gentle, leading you to the market village of Krieglach.
Journey through the Fischbacher Alps on forested and hilly terrain, with occasional open clearings and splendid views. Arrive in the mountain village of Fischbach, known for its peaceful setting.
A series of moderate hills and wooded ridges awaits as you venture eastward. Pass through scattered farms before arriving in Birkfeld, a small rural hub.
Head through fields, orchards, and forests on gently undulating paths, skirting several small lakes. The day’s walk concludes in the lively market town of Weiz.
Walk mostly on comfortable rural roads and tracks through the eastern Styrian countryside, with vineyards and open farmland lining the route to Gleisdorf.
Make your way toward Hartberg through agricultural landscapes, passing scattered villages and heritage sites. Hartberg itself boasts a charming old town and impressive fortifications.
Hike through a patchwork of orchards, meadows, and forested hills as you approach the thermal spa region of Bad Waltersdorf. The day ends in a relaxing spa town, ideal for unwinding.
Easy walking on gentle tracks as you traverse fertile fields and pass vineyard-lined hills. Arrive in Fürstenfeld, a lively town famous for its fortifications and history as a spa destination.
Follow rural backroads through rolling farmland and along riverbanks. Enter the province of Burgenland as you approach Jennersdorf, a gateway town on the edge of the Raab valley.
Transition through gently rising pastureland toward Güssing, passing idyllic hamlets and broad open spaces. The historic Güssing Castle dominates the skyline as you reach your destination.
Roll through pastures, woodland, and vast agricultural tracts of Lower Burgenland. Arrive in Stegersbach, which offers another opportunity for relaxation in its acclaimed spa facilities.
Venture further across Burgenland’s scenic uplands, encountering rolling hills, sunflower fields and small lakes. Today’s destination, Oberwart, is a regional market town.
Continue navigating gently rolling countryside, woods, and open farmland as you move further east. The day’s walk leads you to Rechnitz, at the base of southern Burgenland’s forested hills.
Enter the Geschriebenstein Nature Park, hiking across wooded ridges and through leafy valleys. Today’s scenic finale is the medieval stronghold of Burg Lockenhaus in the village of Lockenhaus.
Cross varied wooded and agricultural terrain with moderate climbing, shifting between forest shade and sunlit fields. Arrive in Stoob, a small village known for its traditional ceramics.
Experience easy walking through gentle hills scattered with vineyards and orchards. Historic sights and local wine offer cultural highlights as you reach Neckenmarkt.
Follow the blue hills of central Burgenland, passing more wine villages. The path is mostly easy and well-marked as you move northeast to Deutschkreutz, a town with impressive historical estates.
Turn southeast through panoramic open country, winding through a patchwork of rural hamlets and fields on peaceful tracks. Overnight in the small agricultural community of Kitzladen.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through lowland woods, meadows, and river valleys. Pinkafeld offers a traditional small-town atmosphere and riverside parks.
Traverse a mix of gentle hills and agricultural land while heading east. The path features a mixture of paved and dirt tracks ending in the border town of Friedberg.
Re-enter Styria through mellow river valleys and open farmlands. Arrive once again in Fürstenfeld, allowing for a scenic approach to the final stages of your hike.
Continue southward through the rolling fields and lush fruit orchards of southeastern Styria. Feldbach, a market town with historical charm, is your next overnight stop.
Meander through the Styrian Volcano Country, an undulating region dotted with extinct volcanic hills. Conclude in Bad Gleichenberg, another spa town offering hot springs and wellness opportunities.
Descend gradually towards the floodplains of the Mur River, crossing through enchanting woodlands and meadows. Reach the riverside town of Mureck, close to the Slovenian border.
Skirt the borderlands through village and rural scenery, following bike and footpaths across the plain. Arrive in Halbenrain, a village recognized for its location in the fertile Mur valley.
On your final day, follow riverside paths and tranquil country roads until the route concludes in Bad Radkersburg. This spa town, located at Austria’s southeastern tip, marks the end of the Eastern Way and offers the chance to relax in its famous thermal baths.