We start our hike at the Siglhof, located in the heart of Langenwang's town center, and head south along Grazer Straße. Soon, we turn left into Badgasse, and after a right curve, we leave this street and continue onto Waldgasse. We cross under the expressway, walk a few hundred meters above it through meadows, then turn left into the Schwöbinggraben. Passing several farms along the Traibach, we reach the Winkler estate.
Here, we cross the stream and, after a few hundred meters, begin the ascent via the Alten Alpsteig, a historic hiking path connecting the Mürztal with Alpl. At the end of this ascent, we cross the Alpl-Bundesstraße and descend gently towards the Waldschule, where we also meet the connecting paths from Mitterdorf in the Mürztal and Krieglach to the Rosegger Trail. This trail leads from Schanzsattel through the entire Waldheimat, passing the birthplace and the Waldschule at Alpl, all the way to the Stuhleck summit.
But back to the Waldschule: We visit the classroom from back then and are somewhat amazed to find that next door is the Austrian Hiking Museum. Numerous old exhibits with a rich alpine history take us back in time and immerse all mountain enthusiasts in a world of dreams and stories. The main part of the museum, the Waldschule, was built in 1902 through a fundraising campaign started by Peter Rosegger to counteract rural depopulation. After the cessation of lessons in 1975 due to a lack of students, the building was renovated and now houses the former classroom and Peter Rosegger's study, where he would retreat for quiet reflection.
After visiting the Waldschule, we head uphill once more to our destination, Peter Rosegger's birthplace. Upon arrival, we take the time to delve into the history of this local writer, nature lover, progressive thinker, supporter of tradition, and advocate for the rights and preservation of rural life. Peter Rosegger spent his first 17 years here at the "Vorderer Kluppeneggerhof" before it became clear that he would not become a farmer. His stature was too delicate, his mind too sensitive. Even during his apprenticeship as a tailor, his talent was recognized, and numerous benefactors helped him become one of Austria’s greatest writers. His life’s work encompassed 43 books and the publication of the monthly magazine "Heimgarten", which continued until 1953, long after his death. With 15 million books sold and translations into over 20 languages, Peter Rosegger was, alongside Jules Verne, one of the most-read authors of his time.
Returning to Langenwang, there are additional options for the return journey (all routes mentioned below are well-marked and signed!):
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Return the same way to the Waldschule, then head uphill to the Waldheimathof. From here, take Trail 735 back to Langenwang (3.5 hours walking).
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From the birthplace, continue to the Waldschule and take a taxi back to Langenwang (20 minutes walking).