Austria - The St Hemma Trail

8 days, Self-Guided, Minimum 2 People, Seasonal Daily Departures

A 'pilgrimage' - 'to go beyond your own limits'. Pilgrimages can be taken for any reason and inspire all types of travellers wanting a journey with meaning, perhaps finding the connection between nature and spirituality. They are currently enjoying an unprecedented renaissance and where better to take one than in Austria's southernmost province, Carinthia.

Blessed with a sunny climate, the foothills of the Alps are ideal for exploring this region at a leisurely pace, discovering hidden treasures amongst the cultural landscape of Carinthia with its rich religious and traditional heritage. On the restored Hemmaweg (St Hemma's Way) you will follow along 120 kilometres of old pilgrimage paths on what was once the regular Krain pilgrimage from Slovenia, over the Loibl Pass via Klagenfurt to Gurk.

From the Loibl Valley you will cross into Carinthia on an ancient traders' route descending to the stunning Tscheppaschlucht Gorge with its orchids and alpine flowers. On the other side of the River Drau, Celtic and Roman remains on Magdalensberg Hill provide an interesting insight into the province's history. Some of the area's best panoramic views can be found here as you make your way to Hochosterwitz, Austria's most famous fairytale castle, situated on a rocky peak towering over the Zollfeld plain. The Silber Stream on Krappfeld then guides you into the mystic mediaeval world of legends and through the Strassburg Nature Reserve before arriving at St Hemma's tomb in the crypt of Gurk cathedral, one of Austria's most important architectural monuments.

Day 1. Outbound

Fly from Stansted to Klagenfurt with Ryan Air and transfer to the idyllic Boden Valley.

Day 2. Out from Slovenia!

St Hemma is the patroness of Carinthia and at the centre of many of its legends. Your introduction to the St Hemma Way is a fantastic start to the trail. Follow the oldest section from the Slovenian town of St Anna over the spectacular Loibl Pass. The hairpin bends of the path and the breathtaking views aid your ascent into Austria.

Day 3. The Tscheppaschlucht Gorge

The combination of water and light create a mesmerising backdrop to today's walk through the gorge. Steep rock faces rise up around you as you head towards the Tschauko Waterfall. Wayside shrines mark the trail through pine forest to the River Draub and the ancient pilgrimage church of Maria Rain.

Days 4 and 5. Magdalensberg and Hochosterwitz Castle

Your encounter with Carinthia's historic past begins on the plains of Zollfeld where excavations of the Roman town of Virunum are evident. Ascend Magdalensberg, a place of worship from Celtic times and site of the oldest surviving fertility pilgrimage. Walk beneath the mighty Hochosterwitz, its imposing castle walls cementing its presence since 860AD. Flatter terrain brings you to the mediaeval town of Treibach-Althofen. Follow the Silber Stream through the peaceful Wolschart Woods to the historic spa centre of Althofen.

Days 6 to 8. Gurk and Homeward

On your last leg you discover further cultural treasures. Behind Schloss Pockstein, the former bishop's residence, the path continues through the serene Strassburg Nature Reserve with the Strassburg castle perched above. Finally you arrive at Gurk with its magnificent 800 year old Romanesque Cathedral housing treasures of immeasurable value. Take a full day to relax here enjoying the cultural sites and culinary delights - restaurants offering recipes handed down over the ages, a unique mix of Italy, Slovenia and the Mediterranean with a hint of Austria. Seasonal Carinthian produce to bring your pilgrimage to a fitting end. Transfer back to Klagenfurt for your flight home.