Leoben sits on a river in the Mur Valley, surrounded by beautiful alpine scenery. The town has been an important hub for iron industries since the Middle Ages and is home to a popular beer. Historic buildings reveal insights into the past while surrounding mountains provide plenty of year-round outdoor pursuits.
Visit the large pedestrianized main square to see well-preserved buildings dating back to the 13th century. Admire the red-and-white Baroque façade of Hacklhaus building. See the 13th-century Romanesque crucifix inside St. Xavier parish church and tour the Old Town Hall. A few minutes’ walk away is the Schwammerlturm climb this medieval tower for exceptional city views. Enjoy more views of Leoben at the ruins of the castle Massenburg.
Leoben’s cultural heart is the Museums Center, a museum, exhibition space and performing arts venue. View art exhibitions, watch a show and learn about Leoben’s industrial past. South of the city center is the suburb of Göss, with a 1,000-year-old convent where nuns once brewed beer. Next door is the Gösser brewery and museum dedicated to one of the country’s most famous alcoholic beverages.
Treat the family to a relaxing day at the Asia Spa Leoben. The large leisure and wellness complex has saunas, indoor and outdoor pools, treatment rooms and beach volleyball courts. The family area features a large pool with massage jets, slides, a bamboo forest and a kiddie pool for younger children.
The mountains surrounding Leoben have much to offer outdoor enthusiasts. Walk along the Praebichl Pass in winter, ski its slopes. Speed down the summer toboggan run and take the elevated trail at Rachau through the treetops for almost 2 miles (3 kilometers). See bears and other animals at the Adventure World Mautern.
Reach Leoben by flying into Salzburg or Graz and get around by bus, bicycle, taxi or on foot. A rental car is a good option to get out and explore the mountains, forests and rivers.
