Lurgrotte Peggau - Frohnleiten - Mariazell

Route: Graz - Lurgrotte Peggau - Frohnleiten - Mariazell - Graz
Duration: 9 h
There are approximately 10,000 caves in Austria, 4,500 in Styria, and only 25 caves are open to visitors.  In this tour we will visit to on of them - waterflowing cave Lurgrotte Peggau. Stalactite from the ceiling, stalagmite on the ground. This mnemonic can help you to identify the wonderful stone formations at the Lurgrotte, Austria’s largest dripstone cave. Here calcium mineral deposition over millions of years has yielded enchanting natural artworks both fragile and massive, with fantastic names meaning prince, giant and grand candle stick. You can explore this fascinating cavern complex accompanied by an expert guide. Peggau is situated where the Lurbach stream, whose exact course through the mountain is still unknown, comes to the surface again. From there you can reach the impressively illuminated "rain grotto" and the imposing "prince". Archaeological finds have proved that cave bears and, about 50,000 years ago, even Neandertals found shelter in the outer parts of Lurgrotte. It remains unknown, if they, like today's visitors, appreciated the constant temperature of +10°C and the high humidity of 97-98% beneficial for the respiratory system. Our next stop will be at Frohnleiten which is one of the most beautiful small towns in Austria. The location of the River Mur, surrounded by a lush mountain landscape and the well-preserved historic city centre, makes the place well worth a visit. For once, we visited an Austrian town, not because they have well-known tourist sights or famous architecture, but simply because it’s a lovely town. Frohnleiten has been able to modernize the city and, in particular the main square (Hauptplatz), without destroying its historical charm. The square is the lifeblood of the local community and where you find shops, banks, eateries and public offices. Also you will see the Tabor (from the 16th century), one of the old city gates,  parish church of Mariä Himmelfahrt, which is also part of a monastery, the 17th-century court house, with its red and white shutters, is another great historic building that has been preserved, the fountain at the north end of the main square and Volkshauspark which is a lovely place to relax with its small paths and plenty of seating. Frohnleiten also received a gold medal in the competition Entente Florale in 2000 as the most well-groomed and most splendid flower decorated town. Our last poin of this tour will be at Mariazell, which situated on the lower reaches of the eastern Alps, is one of Austria’s icons , because Mariazell so well known like Austria’s most important pilgrimage site. Its basilica, founded in 1157, holds a sacred statue of the Virgin. Enjoy art, culture & culinary delights in the treasure chamber at the basilica, at the museum of local history in Mariazell or on a ride with the museum tramway. Experience the gingerbread bakery Erlebzelterei Pirker, the production of the famous Magenlikör digestif and the workshop of Pantherstrick Arzberger as well as visiting the pharmacy Apotheke Zur Gnadenmutter Which is in the UNESCO list. After that we will return to Graz.
Price: Per person