Walking for enjoyment. Route 3
On the trail of the Wildschönau Krautinger Schnapps
On the trail of the Wildschönau Krautinger Schnapps
The Canticles to Brother Sun by St Francis of Assisi are known throughout the world.
Hubert Flörl, a renowned sculptor has erected a series of nine bronze statues on the 'Path of Contemplation' leading from Niederau to Oberau in the beautiful Wildschönau Valley. About half way along this path is the prize winning Z'Bach Mountain Farmer's Museum.
From 26th May to 6th October a weekly Craft Fare is held here every Thursday from 1pm to 5pm.
The Museum itself is housed in an ancient farmhouse where the barn has been turned into an events and arts centre. Here almost extinct arts and crafts are on display, such as; wood carving, wood turning, basket weaving, spinning and cobbling.
Arts such as gold embroidery, straw dollies and glass painting can also be seen.
At the end of the Path you come to the Steinerhof Farm where the locally distilled Krautinger Schnapps has been made for over 250 years.
Krautinger: A real cure-all
The white beet used to make the schnapps is harvested twice in the summer months. Empress Maria Theresia bestowed the distillery rights on the Wildschönau farmers in the 18th century. The locals swear by its healing properties even if the taste takes some getting used to. But the beet is also used in many local dishes. Try a beet soup, strudel or cake! At the Steinerhof Farm you can try out the liquid version, during a tour of the distillery.
You can do this walk easily on your own or. Entrance to the Craft Fare € 4.80. If you want a tour of the schnapps distillery with snack, € 7. Bookings on tel. +43 5339 2117
Bookings for groups: Wildschönau Tourist Office: Tel. +43 (0) 5339 8255 0.