Styria (Steiermark), known as the 'Green Heart' of Austria, is a region of rolling hills, dense forests, and renowned thermal springs, famous for its wine production and pumpkin seed oil. Graz, its capital, is a Renaissance and Baroque jewel, with a UNESCO World Heritage old town and bold modern architecture. Here you can find luxury spa hotels and thermal resorts that offer the perfect blend of relaxation and culture.

Graz: City of Design and Historic Heritage

The historic center of Graz is dominated by the Schlossberg, the castle hill, reachable by funicular or on foot. Must-sees include the Landhaus, a Renaissance masterpiece, and the Historic Armoury. In stark contrast, the bold Murinsel (island on the Mur River) and the Kunsthaus (Art Museum) make it a UNESCO City of Design. Real Experience: We recommend visiting the Kunsthaus (Friendly Alien) and then crossing the Murinsel for a coffee, in a perfect balance between the ancient historic center and architectural avant-garde.

Thermal Baths, Wine, and Dream Landscapes

Southern Styria is famous for its 'Wine Route' (Südsteirische Weinstraße), often compared to Tuscany for its hilly landscapes and Buschenschank (wine taverns). The Styrian Thermal Baths (like Bad Blumau, designed by Hundertwasser) are a luxury destination for wellness. Upper Styria, on the other hand, offers alpine peaks and picturesque lakes. A symbolic product is Styrian pumpkin seed oil (Kürbiskernöl).

Gastronomy and Typical Products

Styrian cuisine is a regional delight, with Croatian and Slovenian influences. Must-try dishes are Backhendl (fried chicken), regional cheeses, and pumpkin-based dishes, always accompanied by a drizzle of Kürbiskernöl. White wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Welschriesling, are of the highest quality.
Where to Taste Dishes and Wines (Top 4 Restaurants):

• Der Steirer (Graz): Modern Styrian cuisine and local wines in a lively atmosphere.
• Gasthaus zur Herzgrube (Leibnitz - Wine Route): High-quality traditional Buschenschank cuisine.
• aiola im Schloss St. Veit (Graz): Gourmet cuisine in a castle with a view of the city.
• Hofkeller im Landhaus (Graz): Refined Austrian cuisine with an emphasis on Styrian products.

Top 3 Luxury and Thermal Hotels

Styria is a leader in the luxury thermal resort segment:

• Das Weitzer Graz: Urban elegance and design in the heart of Graz.
• Rogner Bad Blumau: Iconic luxury thermal resort with Hundertwasser architecture.
• LOISIUM Wine & Spa Hotel Südsteiermark (Ehrenhausen): Modern design hotel nestled in the vineyards of the Wine Route.

Useful Info and Surroundings

Graz has an international airport (GRZ). The rail network connects the main cities well. Using a car is recommended to explore the Wine Route. Official links:

• Steiermark Tourismus – Official Styrian Tourism Website
• Graz Tourismus – Tourism in Graz