Sometimes a journey does not begin with a single step, but with a decision: to slow down. The Benedict pilgrimage trail in the Krems Valley invites you to do just that. Between rolling hills, wide fields and spiritual power spots, movement is combined with contemplation - in a landscape that has been characterised by monastic culture for centuries.
Around Schlierbach Abbey, the trail leads through a region where nature and faith have grown together. Forests open up into quiet clearings, small chapels and wayside crosses accompany your thoughts. Again and again, hills open up views over the Krems Valley and into the mountains between Pyhrn and Priel - a reminder of how close vastness and security are in 360° Alpine country.
Travellers on the Benedict pilgrimage route in the Kremstal valley in Upper Austria will not only find quiet paths and spiritual places, but also genuine hospitality. Along the route, inns, cider taverns and cafés invite you to take a break.
Cosy guesthouses, family-run businesses and accommodation close to monasteries are available for the night. Many hosts are aware of the needs of pilgrims: flexible breakfast times, luggage transfer or a quiet place in the garden to end the day.
The all-inclusive offer makes planning easier: several stages with pre-booked overnight stays, breakfast, maps and luggage service on request. This leaves your head free for the essentials - walking, your thoughts and the landscape between gentle hills and spiritual power spots in the heart of Upper Austria.
Length: 45 km
Elevation gain: 1,129 m
The stages on the Benedikt pilgrimage trail in the Kremstal valley in 360° Alpenland are designed to leave room for conversation, reflection and conscious breaks. Each day's route combines gentle hills, small villages and spiritual places with easily accessible paths.
The newly opened Benedict Pilgrimage Trail Kremstal is a wonderful circular route that branches off from the Benedict Pilgrimage Trail Upper Austria in Schlierbach.
With a length of 45 km and three daily stages through the beautiful Upper Austrian Kremstal valley, this pilgrimage route is a wonderful experience, even for beginners.
Opened in spring 2024, the circular route starts at the impressive Schlierbach Abbey and then leads through the Wartberger Au. The Mayr gourmet and adventure farm is certainly a highlight. The trail continues past the Magdalenaberg to the Georgenberg, which is a spiritual place of power. The ascent to Grillparz is rewarded with an impressive view far across the Kremstal and will definitely be remembered.
The circular route is embedded in a marvellous valley landscape. The villages of Schlierbach, Nußbach, Wartberg, Inzersdorf, Pettenbach, Micheldorf, the district capital of Kirchdorf and Oberschlierbach are crossed along the way.
The circular route runs for 45 kilometres in 3 stages. Between 15 and 23 kilometres have to be completed each day.
Yes, due to its length and the relatively low altitude difference compared to other pilgrimage routes (approx. 1,100 metres), it is perfect for pilgrims with little experience. However, experienced pilgrims will also get their money's worth with the scenic beauty.
When you book an overnight package, you have many included services at your disposal:
Daily transfer from your accommodation to the respective entry points, as well as pick-up from the stage destinations
1 souvenir
Catering included: Breakfast or half board
The Benedikt-Pilgerrundweg Kremstal leads in a wonderful loop around the Kremstal and offers an extraordinary panorama: the valley remains the centre of the pilgrim's field of vision at all times - a special experience that makes the trail a unique experience.
We recommend good hiking boots, weatherproof clothing and hiking poles. Don't forget your sun cream, as the trail is very sunny in places. We also recommend a "first aid kit" consisting of rotting handkerchiefs.
Whether it's the Schlift Schlierbach, the Georgiberg, the Magdalenaberg church, the Kremstal meadows or the Grillenparz - the Benedikt pilgrimage route offers many beautiful highlights along the way.
At the ascent to Schlierbach Abbey (red triangle), but in general you can get in anywhere along the marked path.
The Benedict Pilgrimage Trail Kremstal is well signposted in both directions.
At the moment, everything is already available online, including the GPS track - a map is being prepared in the same way
When booking a package deal, a shuttle service to the accommodation establishments is included.
Several inns and cafés along the route invite you to take a break. It is advisable to check the individual opening times and closing days in advance.