It is a unique habitat:
the 485 square kilometer Nockberge Nature Park.
The capercaillie is the heraldic animal of the Nockberge Biosphere Reserve, which was recognized by UNESCO in 2012. Discover the flora and fauna of an ancient cultural and natural landscape while hiking, cycling and along the Nockalm Road. Numerous excursion destinations provide insights into life and tradition in this part of the Alps.
From idea to nature park:
the Nockberge Biosphere Park
What is a biosphere park anyway? The answer to the riddle lies in the name itself. Biosphere translates as habitat. And it is precisely this unique habitat in the middle of the Nockberge mountains that is something very special. Geologically, the gentle mountains are among the oldest low mountain range formations in Europe. Alpine pastures, peaks and valleys are populated by an incredible variety of animals and plants: Marmots and Alpine salamanders are as native here as the Swiss stone pine or the Speik, which can only be found here. People have shaped this region through the centuries with their work - the result is a unique natural and cultural landscape that is worth preserving and admiring.
Preserving Nature - Shaping the Future
in the nature park in Carinthia
The recognition of the Nockberge region as a biosphere park was preceded by a long and elaborate selection process. In the 485 square kilometre protected area, the focus is on environmentally compatible and sustainable further development. The municipalities of the nature park region were finally able to convince: the recognition by UNESCO is the confirmation of a concept that aims to preserve a great habitat in the Austrian Alps. Discover one of the five biosphere parks in Austria: the Hotel Almrausch is located in the middle of the hiking and biking area of the Biosphere Park Nockberge, which is worth experiencing.
Diverse habitats in the biosphere reserve
in Austria's Nockberge
The landscape is more diverse in the nature park in Carinthia than almost anywhere else. Heathland, high moors, streams and lakes as well as alpine meadows and alpine plateaus provide a rich habitat for a wide variety of animals and plants. However, one of the most inconspicuous plants, the Speik, has become the star of the local flora. The fragrant medicinal herb covers the mountain slopes with its blossoms and is the basis for remedies and care products that are valued all over the world. So, now it's time to discover the Nockberge Biosphere Park on interesting trails!
Summer Experience Programs
in the Nockberge Biosphere Reserve
On the road with a biosphere park ranger: observe rare animals, hike to the most beautiful vantage points and hear exciting stories and legends about traditions and customs in the Nockberge mountains! The colourful range of activities extends from sunrise hikes on the Falkert to Speikerlebnis hikes to fairy tale family excursions and exciting nature detective riddles. For some experiences you need to book the day before, others you can book on the same day: The staff at the Almrausch reception will be happy to take care of the registration for you! Please note that some of the hikes are free of charge, others can be booked for a fee. Biosphere Experience:
Only in the Nockberge:
Speikhütten for refreshing footbaths
This really only exists in the Nockberge Biosphere Reserve: some alpine huts offer foot baths prepared with the medicinal herb Speik to refresh tired hikers' legs. The valerian plant has a harmonizing and stimulating effect at the same time and makes you fit for many more kilometres of hiking! Speaking of Speik: don't miss out on a guided Speik hike. The Brunnach Biosphere Park Railway takes Hotel Almrausch guests with the Carinthia Card up the mountain free of charge, after which you go on a Speik "hunt" with a biosphere ranger. After the refreshing footbath, you can refresh yourself with a freshly caught trout!
