Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

Feistritz an der Gail

Our Lady of the Snows

Feistritz an der Gail

Our Lady of the Snows

Highlight • Religious Site

Our Lady of the Snows

Hiking

4.9

(91)

Save

Location: Feistritz an der Gail, Bezirk Villach-Land, Carinthia, Austria

Save

See nearby routes

Take Me There

Tips

master.dica (Jürgen61) 📸🥾🚴‍♀️&🏃‍♂️

July 11, 2024

Hiking

The chapel was consecrated on the Feast of the Snows, August 6, 1911. The First World War and the events of the post-war period were not particularly beneficial to the church. Alpine summer tourism, as in the times of the monarchy, only slowly picked up again, the pasture itself was divided by the border, and fortifications and barracks were built on the now Italian side. The intended definition of the state border was abandoned solely for the sake of the small church, in order to keep the chapel on Austrian territory.

Translated by

•

Sebastian Kowalke

August 20, 2018

Hiking

The small chapel stands alone on a wide alpine meadow high on the ridge of the Carnic Alps. When the church was built, the heavily guarded border ran further south, deep down in the valley. Meanwhile, the Italian border runs directly over the ridge, but fortunately you can now get by without a border post and all hikers can easily visit both countries.

Translated by

•

JakobusPilger

August 25, 2025

Hiking

The patronage of "Our Lady of the Snows" – which, in my experience, is not all that common – indicates that this chapel was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, …

Translated by

•

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!

Nearby routes

Best routes near Our Lady of the Snows

4.8

(63)

291

hikers

#1.

Feistritzer Alm - Carnic High Route Loop

7.84km

03:21

540m

Embark on the Feistritzer Alm - Carnic High Route Loop, a moderate hike that takes you through varied terrain, including sections of snowy forest trails. You will cover 4.9 miles (7.8 km) and ascend 1765 feet (538 metres), typically completing the route in about 3 hours and 20 minutes. As you hike, you can expect panoramic views, especially around the Sella di Pleccia mountain pass, offering a rewarding experience.

When planning your visit, remember to check local conditions, particularly for snow, before you head out. Parking is usually available near the starting point, but public transport options might be limited in this alpine region. For the best experience, consider visiting during the warmer months to enjoy the trail fully.

This route leads you towards the Madonna della Neve chapel, a notable landmark along the way. You will also pass by the Nordio-Deffar Hut, which serves as a good spot to pause and take in the surrounding alpine scenery. The trail offers a journey through the Carnic Alps, providing a glimpse into the region's natural beauty and historical border routes.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

4.7

(28)

101

hikers

#2.

Monte Osternig Loop Trail

12.2km

05:02

870m

Embark on the Monte Osternig Loop Trail, a difficult hike spanning 7.6 miles (12.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2853 feet (870 metres). You can expect to spend around 5 hours and 1 minutes completing this challenging route. As you ascend, the terrain shifts from shaded forests to open pastures and rocky crests adorned with mugo pines, eventually leading to the Oisternig Eastern Summit for expansive views.

This demanding loop requires good physical fitness and sure-footedness, so prepare accordingly. While the full route is strenuous, you can utilize refuges like Rifugio Nordio-Deffar as convenient resting points or even to shorten your hike if needed. The trail is also accessible for snowshoeing in winter up to the refuge, offering a different seasonal experience for those seeking a snowy adventure.

This trail offers more than just physical challenge; it also provides a journey through history and stunning natural beauty. Along the way, you will encounter historical World War I bunkers and the charming Our Lady of the Snows chapel. The route traverses the unique border region between Italy and Austria, providing spectacular 360-degree views that include the Julian Alps and the Austrian Alps.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Hard

5.0

(7)

hikers

#3.