Attractions and Places To See around Söding-St.Johann - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Söding-St.Johann, a municipality in the Voitsberg District of Styria, Austria, offers a blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural sites. The area is characterized by its agricultural landscape, including wine production, and is situated at the confluence of the Södingbach and Kainach rivers. Visitors can explore numerous thoughtfully designed chapels, churches, and castles, alongside natural features like lakes and observation towers. This region provides diverse opportunities for exploration, from historical sites to scenic viewpoints.
Best attractions and places to see around Söding-St.Johann
- The most popular attractions is Rudolfswarte Observation Tower, a man-made monument located in the southwest of Graz on the Buchkogel. Officially named Crown Prince Rudolf Warte, it provides scenic views over Graz and can be reached via easy paths.
- Another must-see spot is Thaler Lake, an artificial lake. It is a popular spot for walking, boating, and dining at the lakeside restaurant, and was once Styria's largest "beach."
- Visitors also love St. Barbara's Church Bärnbach, a religious building. This distinctive church is designed in the style of Friedensreich Hundertwasser, offering a unique interior and exterior.
- Söding-St.Johann is known for its churches, castles, and natural features like lakes and observation towers. The region offers a variety of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural viewpoints to explore.
- The attractions around Söding-St.Johann are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 800 upvotes and 250 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Thaler Lake
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Rudolfswarte Observation Tower
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St. Martin Castle
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Johann & Paul Restaurant
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St. Barbara's Church Bärnbach
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Tips from the Community
The inn boasts a spacious beer garden and a vine-covered pergola – here, your culinary needs are well catered for. Many hiking trails lead to the inn and the small church above it, or past the Church of St. John and Paul. Right next to the inn is a fun, public playground for children. It features a seesaw, a sandpit, a treehouse, a nest swing, a hammock, and various seating options. There's also plenty of climbing and balancing equipment. Opening hours: Tuesday - Sunday 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM, closed on Mondays
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Barbara Church or Hunderwasser Church are a feast for the eyes.
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Feelings of happiness arise there at any time of year. It is a very special spot on earth, a true natural idyll, otherwise Arnie, the most famous son of the place - who grew up nearby and whose birthplace now shows his career as a museum - would probably not have proposed marriage to his then fiancée Maria Shriver right here, in a rowing boat on the Thalersee. Even though that was a while ago, the original boat on the shore of the Thalersee still bears witness to it today.
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In the casual, newly built Cafe Thaler See Garten - with a beautiful large terrace right on the water - you can really enjoy the wonderful view with all kinds of fine specialties, cool drinks and of course coffee, cake and ice cream. Not only walkers and day-trippers like to stop off at the modern Waldcafé Thalersee, it also offers ideal conditions for events, seminars and celebrations on the lake.
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Always good for a rest.
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Beautiful church in the style of F. Hundertwasser. Very special inside and out. Worth seeing!!!!
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A trip out on the lake in a rowing boat or pedal boat - perhaps with the swan - is great fun for all ages. But some people just come here to relax and make themselves comfortable on the large lawn on the western shore of the lake (don't forget your blanket).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in Söding-St.Johann?
You can visit Thaler Lake, an artificial lake popular for walking, boating, and dining. It was once Styria's largest 'beach' and offers a relaxing natural setting. The region is also characterized by the confluence of the Södingbach and Kainach rivers, and its agricultural landscape.
Are there any historical or cultural sites worth visiting in the area?
Yes, the region is rich in history and culture. You can explore numerous thoughtfully designed chapels and churches, such as the Kalvarienbergkirche and Sebastianikirche, both offering picturesque views. The area also features a historic castle, once owned by the Kellersperg family, now known for concerts. Additionally, the nearby St. Barbara's Church Bärnbach is a unique architectural highlight.
What family-friendly activities are available in Söding-St.Johann?
Families can enjoy a visit to Thaler Lake, where you can walk, boat, and dine at the lakeside restaurant. Many of the local churches and castles, including St. Martin Castle and St. Barbara's Church Bärnbach, are also considered family-friendly attractions, offering interesting sights for all ages.
Where can I find good hiking trails around Söding-St.Johann?
Söding-St.Johann is an excellent region for hiking. You can find various paths, including routes through the Södingtal valley and the '5-Schlösserwanderung' (Five Castles Hike). For more specific routes, explore the Hiking around Söding-St.Johann guide, which features trails like the easy 'St. Johann Church – View of the Valley Near Graz loop'.
Are there options for cycling or mountain biking in the region?
Absolutely. The hilly landscape between Voitsberg and Stainz offers numerous cycling paths. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the MTB Trails around Söding-St.Johann guide provides options ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'Langmannsperre Dam – Hierzmann Dam loop'.
What are some unique architectural sights in the region?
A must-see is St. Barbara's Church Bärnbach, designed in the distinctive style of Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Its unique interior and exterior make it a truly special cultural landmark. The area also boasts numerous thoughtfully designed chapels and churches, each with its own architectural charm.
Can I find places to eat or relax near the attractions?
Yes, there are several options. At Thaler Lake, you'll find a lakeside restaurant and the modern Cafe Thaler See Garten. The Johann & Paul Restaurant is also a popular spot for a rest and good food.
Are there any observation points with scenic views?
Yes, the Rudolfswarte Observation Tower, southwest of Graz on the Buchkogel, offers wonderful panoramic views over Graz and the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the Kalvarienbergkirche and Sebastianikirche provide expansive and picturesque vistas.
Is Söding-St.Johann suitable for visitors with limited mobility?
Some attractions offer accessibility. Thaler Lake has wheelchair accessible paths, making it a good option for visitors with limited mobility to enjoy the natural surroundings and lakeside amenities.
What is the best time of year to visit Söding-St.Johann?
The region is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and cycling, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer allows for boating and enjoying the lakeside at Thaler Lake, while winter offers opportunities for ice skating on the lake if conditions allow, and enjoying the serene, snow-covered scenery.
What kind of outdoor activities are popular with visitors?
Visitors frequently enjoy hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. The area offers diverse routes, from easy walks to challenging MTB trails. You can explore specific options in the Hiking around Söding-St.Johann, MTB Trails around Söding-St.Johann, and Running Trails around Söding-St.Johann guides.
Can I bring my dog on trails or to attractions?
Many outdoor areas and trails in Söding-St.Johann are dog-friendly, making it a great place to explore with your canine companion. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and check specific regulations for individual attractions or establishments.
Are there any castles to visit in or near Söding-St.Johann?
Yes, the municipality features a historic castle that was once owned by the Kellersperg family and is now known for hosting concerts. Additionally, St. Martin Castle is a notable historical site nearby, offering a wonderful place to linger and enjoy views.
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