Attractions and Places To See around Sankt Thomas am Blasenstein - Top 20

The region is home to several unique natural monuments. You can visit the Bucklwehluck'n, a crawl-through stone in the village center with local folklore suggesting it alleviates back pain. Another intriguing site is the Phallusstein, a large, phallus-shaped granite stone believed to have been used for fertility rituals. Additionally, the Zigeunermauer (Gypsy Wall) is an ancient cult site and significant rock formation.

For expansive views, head to the Gobelwarte Observation Tower. From its almost 30-meter-high viewing platform, you can see the Danube valley, including Grein and the Strudengau. The former castle sites of Blasenstein I (Oberer Burgstall) also offer panoramic views, potentially reaching the Alps on clear days. Another scenic spot is the View of Grein and Greinburg Castle from the Danube Cycle Path, providing picturesque perspectives of Grein and its castle.

Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore the remnants of two high castles, Blasenstein I (Oberer Burgstall) and Blasenstein II (Unterer Burgstall), which date back to the 12th century and now serve as popular viewpoints. In the nearby town of Grein, you'll find Greinburg Castle, recognized as Austria's oldest residential castle, along with a historic town theater and a Gothic parish church.

The prominent Wallfahrtskirche (Pilgrimage Church) in Sankt Thomas am Blasenstein is a beautiful Gothic structure visible from the Danube area on clear days. It's a central cultural site and houses the unique 'Luftg'selchter Pfarrer' in its crypt. The region is also considered one of twelve sacred places in Upper Austria, known for its spiritual sites and 'places of power and energy'.

The area offers an extensive network of trails for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous options for running, cycling, and mountain biking. Popular routes include the 'Gypsy Wall Rock Formation loop' for running, and various cycling tours like the 'Rechberg Bathing Lake – Ruttenstein Shelter loop'.

Many attractions in the region are suitable for families. The View of Grein and Greinburg Castle from the Danube Cycle Path, Grein Marina, and Grein Town Square are all categorized as family-friendly. The Weltstein, a natural monument, also offers a wonderful place for a rest during a family outing in the hilly Mühlviertel landscape.

The 'Luftg'selchter Pfarrer' (air-dried priest) refers to the mummified remains of former choirmaster and parish vicar Franz Xaverius Sydler de Rosenegg (1709-1746). You can find this intriguing historical artifact inside the crypt of the Wallfahrtskirche (Pilgrimage Church) in Sankt Thomas am Blasenstein.

The nearby town of Grein offers several attractions. You can visit Greinburg Castle, Austria's oldest residential castle, and explore the charming Grein Town Square with its well-preserved medieval and baroque buildings. Grein also features a historic town theater, a Gothic parish church, and a special sundial on the Danube promenade. The Grein Marina is a beautiful spot along the Danube.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views, especially from the Gobelwarte Observation Tower, which offers a 360-degree vista. The idyllic setting of Grein on the Danube and its charming market square are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the peaceful, hilly Mühlviertel landscape, with places like the Weltstein providing wonderful spots for rest away from the hustle and bustle.

Yes, the region holds some hidden natural gems. The Hoanl Natursteinhöhlen (Hoanl Natural Stone Caves) are beautiful, lesser-known natural stone caves and rock crevices nestled in a small grove. You can also seek out the 7 Zinnen (7 Pinnacles), jagged granite rocks found in the light-filled forests of the region, offering a unique natural experience.

The Weltstein is a natural monument and one of the highest elevations, at 478 meters, in the market town of Schwertberg, near Sankt Thomas am Blasenstein. It's special for its tranquil setting, offering a wonderful place for rest and views within the hilly Mühlviertel landscape. Local folklore also tells a brilliant legend about the devil associated with this site.

Yes, you can visit the Augenbründl, an ancient spring adorned with a stone shrine. This spring is dedicated to Saint Odile, who is known as the patron saint of those with eye conditions, adding a unique spiritual and historical dimension to the natural site.