Hiking in Bad Kleinkirchheim Bad Kleinkirchheim hiking area: the Nockberge mountains, panoramic views and thermal spas

Bad Kleinkirchheim boasts one of the densest networks of hiking trails in Carinthia, with numerous marked routes stretching from the valley to the peaks.

• Many walks start right in the village or at the mountain cable cars
• Gentle peaks offer scenic walks without the extremes of alpine terrain
• A wide range of panoramic and alpine pasture walks
• Combining walking with thermal waters ensures a restorative experience

It is this combination of exercise, scenery and relaxation that makes hiking in Bad Kleinkirchheim particularly appealing.

The best time for hiking in Bad Kleinkirchheim is from May to October. 

• Spring: flowering alpine meadows and pleasant temperatures
• Summer: clear views and ideal conditions for summit hikes
• Autumn: quiet trails and vibrant colours

At this time of year, panoramic walks, alpine hikes and summit treks are ideal. During the winter months, winter walking trails and snowshoe tours round off the range of activities on offer.

Hiking in Bad Kleinkirchheim includes easy scenic trails, family-friendly walks, alpine pasture hikes and challenging summit treks in the Nockberge Mountains. Many routes start right in the village or at the mountain cable cars.

Family-friendly routes that are not too long and offer plenty to see and do include:

• The Kirchheim Valley Loop
• The Brunnach Mountain Experience
• The St. Oswald Stream Water Trail

All three offer easy-to-walk paths and plenty of variety for children.

The Brunnach Mountain Experience features accessible paths, wide platforms and viewing points. The route is suitable for people with reduced mobility and can also be enjoyed as part of guided ranger tours. The guided tour can be booked at the visitor centre. 

Ten striking peaks dominate the landscape around Bad Kleinkirchheim, including: Mallnock (2,226 m), Klomnock (2,331 m), Großer Rosennock (2,440 m), Rosennock, Plattnock, Pfannnock, Steinnock, Falkertköpfl, Falkert and Rodresnock. The routes range from moderate summit trails, some with the aid of mountain railways, to challenging mountain hikes offering sweeping panoramic views.

With the Kärnten Card, you can use the Kaiserburg and Brunnach cable cars free of charge. You also get free entry to many attractions.

No. Many of the hikes in Bad Kleinkirchheim are easy to moderate and well suited to beginners. Well-maintained footpaths, signposted routes and mountain railways make it easy to get started. For more challenging summit hikes, sure-footedness, a good level of fitness and alpine experience are required – these routes are clearly marked.

Yes, the ranger team at the biosphere reserve offers guided walks on topics such as nature, wildlife and herbs. Many of the tours can be booked online.

Yes. The official hiking map of Bad Kleinkirchheim provides an excellent overview of all the routes – from easy valley walks to peaks with stunning views. The map shows starting points, elevation profiles, places to stop for refreshments and access points to the mountain railways.

The distance, elevation gain and difficulty level should be appropriate for your fitness level.
Important: Make sure you factor in the last cable car ride to ensure you can get back.

Further tips for hiking in the Nockberge Mountains (weather, equipment, difficulty levels)