Heavenly views from the Kahlenberg
The Kahlenberg is located in the Wienerwald (Vienna Woods) and is one of the most popular excursion destinations in the area around Vienna. This is mainly due to the stunning views that await you atop the Kahlenberg – on clear days, there is a panoramic view of the entire city as far as the Schneeberg, the source of Vienna’s famed spring water.
Steeped in history
The 484-meter-high Kahlenberg has had an eventful history. In 1628, Emperor Ferdinand II granted the area to the Camaldolese Order, who built a monastery here. St. Joseph’s Church was built at its center, which is still a popular pilgrimage church today.
The Kahlenberg was made famous by the Polish King Sobiesky, who marched over the mountain with his army in 1683 and relieved the city of Vienna from the Ottoman siege at the last moment.
Hiking and viewpoints on the Kahlenberg
The Kahlenberg is especially popular with hikers. City Hiking Trail 1 takes hikers to the summit in around four hours.
Highlights on the Kahlenberg:
- Stefaniewarte: The 22-meter-high viewing platform is the highest point on the mountain. It was built in 1887 and named after Crown Princess Stefanie of Belgium.
- St. Joseph’s Church: A baroque pilgrimage church with the famous black Madonna.
- Panoramic terrace: Perfect for relaxing with a view of Vienna.
- Restaurant and café: Have a bite to eat and a drink with fantastic views.
The viewpoint on the Kahlenberg can be reached in about an hour’s walk from the Nussdorf terminus of streetcar line D.
Leopoldsberg and the Nasenweg
Those who want to hike a little further can follow the City Hiking Trail 1a and explore the Leopoldsberg (425 m).
Worth a look:
- The Burg am Leopoldsberg, which dates back to the 12th century when it was founded by Count Leopold III of Babenberg.
- The Nasenweg, a 1.5-kilometer trail with unique fauna and flora and an impressive view of the Danube.
Vienna is a hiker’s paradise and offers even more opportunities for spending the day hiking.
How to get to the Kahlenberg
The Kahlenberg is easy to get to:
- By bus: Line 38A from Heiligenstadt via Grinzing.
- By car: Via Grinzing and the Höhenstraße.
Further articles:
The Vienna Woods
Hiking in and around Vienna
