If you’ve ever craved a place where no one rushes you to order, where your morning coffee might come with a view of blooming vineyards and the loudest sound is a bird rustling the grapevines—Südsteiermark in spring and early summer might be exactly what you didn’t know you needed.

Tucked away in the southern corner of Austria, bordering Slovenia, Südsteiermark is one of those places that still feels like a secret. And honestly, we hope it stays that way a little longer.

This is not your typical wine region. It’s softer. Quieter. Greener. From April through June, the rolling hills burst into bloom, guesthouses unlock their handwritten menus, and vineyards come alive with the kind of slow hum that makes you breathe a little deeper.

It’s also one of the best-kept spring travel secrets in Europe.

Why Visit Südsteiermark in Spring and Early Summer?

Spring into early summer is when Südsteiermark shows off. The meadows are dotted with wildflowers, the weather is warm but not too hot, and the wine taverns (called Buschenschanken) open their terraces. It’s peak bloom, peak peacefulness, and still completely under the radar.

Südsteiermark wine view — The views in Südsteiermark are just…wow.

The vines are just waking up, which means the landscape is lush and green, not yet scorched by summer heat. You’ll find more cows than crowds, and more handwritten signs pointing to wine cellars than tourist maps.

This is the kind of place where you can:

Spend a morning walking through sun-dappled forest paths and meadows
Stop at a wine tavern where the owner personally pours your glass
Cycle along e-bike-friendly wine routes that zigzag past vineyards and tiny villages
End the day with a long, slow dinner under fairy lights and grape leaves

Where to Stay: Cozy Guesthouses and Vineyards with a View

Forget big hotels. Südsteiermark is about the small-scale, the personal, the cozy. Think guesthouses run by families who also grow the wine you’ll be sipping. Think balconies with views of endless green hills.

1. Weingut Dreisiebner Stammhaus
Just outside Gamlitz, this vineyard guesthouse is known for warm hospitality, homemade breakfast spreads, and a wine shop you’ll want to bring a tote bag for. Ask for a room with a terrace.

2. Ratscher Landhaus
A boutique stay with a spa, pool, and vineyard views. Perfect if you want a little pampering but still want the slow, local vibe.

3. Winzerhaus Kogelhuber
A self-catering cottage-style guesthouse surrounded by vines and forest. It’s a bit tucked away—ideal for writers, solo travelers, or anyone needing a real breather.

*Local wine is always a good idea. Here at Winzerhaus Kogelhuber*

Most guesthouses here include a hearty local breakfast. Many also have “honesty fridges” full of local wines and juices.

A Landscape Made for Wandering

South Styria rolls on with vineyards, forest trails, and wildflower fields that feel endless. From Ratsch, you can wind your way through Sulztal or down to Leutschach, and every route surprises you with tiny taverns, hilltop views, and local winemakers who might just pour you a glass before you've even sat down.

These are the kind of places you stumble into when you're not in a rush—where the only plan is to stop whenever something beautiful (or delicious) shows up.

Sit back on a terrace, look out over the valley, and let your thoughts wander. For a few minutes, nothing else matters.

Where to Eat: Handwritten Menus and Local Plates

You’ll know you’ve found a good Buschenschank when the menu is short, seasonal, and scribbled in chalk. These wine taverns are usually only open a few days a week, so check ahead or ask your host for the week’s recommendations.

Buschenschank Mahorko (Gamlitz)
Incredible views, local meats and cheeses, and their Sauvignon Blanc is a must.

Weingut Tinnauer
Perfect for a slow afternoon - they offer picknics! Need we say more? They’ve got cozy corners, generous platters, and a view that stretches for miles.

Weingut Tinnauer Picknic — *Austria just hit another level of cozy… here at Weingut Tinnauer*

Weingut Polz
A hidden gem for sure, but grounded in local traditions and delishious cousine! Their seasonal menus and wine pairings are top notch.

Ask for the Brettljause – a platter of cured meats, cheese, spreads, and pickles. Pair with local Muskateller or Sauvignon Blanc. Or take whatever they offer… this is the place to try new flavours.

What to Do in Südsteiermark: E-Bikes, Meadow Walks, and Open Cellar Days

1. E-Bike the South Styrian Wine Road

You can rent an e-bike in Gamlitz or Leutschach and follow the signposted wine routes. They’re stunning in spring, lined with wildflowers and dotted with tasting stops. No steep uphill battles here—the motor helps.

2. Meadow Walks & Forest Trails

Grab your walking shoes and follow the trails from Ehrenhausen, Sulztal, or Kitzeck. Many paths weave between vineyards, woods, and flower-filled fields. You’ll pass quiet chapels, apple trees, and the occasional bench with an unbeatable view.

3. Open Cellar Days (Late Spring)

Many winegrowers open their doors from mid to late spring for tastings, live music, and snacks. It’s a chance to discover lesser-known winemakers and stock up on your favorites.

For Solo Travelers and Introverts: Why Südsteiermark Works

There’s something about Südsteiermark that invites presence. Whether it’s journaling on a vineyard terrace, reading in the shade of an apple tree, or working remotely from a guesthouse where the only interruption is birdsong—it’s got the right kind of quiet.

Wi-Fi is reliable in most guesthouses, and many offer private balconies or lounges. If you’re in a creative slump or just want to spend a few days alone with your thoughts, this region holds space for that.

Bring your camera, your book draft, your sketchpad—this is a good place to be inspired.

How to Get There

Closest airport: Graz (approx. 45 min drive)
From Graz: Rent a car or take a regional train to Ehrenhausen, Gamlitz, or Leibnitz
From Vienna: About 2.5-3 hours by car or train. Worth it for a long weekend!

Pro tip: Having a car or e-bike gives you the most freedom to explore the winding wine roads and tiny taverns.

A Few Extra Insider Tips

Don't skip the wine hiking trails. Some routes, like the "Klapotetz weg" (named after the traditional Styrian windmill), combine scenic walks with tastings and local folklore.
Stop at the small, unmarked taverns. Some of the best wine experiences come with plastic chairs and no English menus.
Bring cash. Not all places accept cards.
Ask about harvest stories. Locals are natural storytellers, and many will happily share tales about the land, the vines, or that one wild harvest back in '92.

Südsteiermark isn’t just a place you visit. It’s a place that slows you down without asking.

So if you’ve been feeling overstimulated, overbooked, or just in need of a new story—this quiet corner of Austria in spring or early summer might be your softest landing yet.

Pack light, bring your curiosity, and come hungry… food here is great!

Südsteiermark Spring & Early Summer Travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Südsteiermark?
Late April through early July is ideal for warm weather, blooming meadows, and open wine taverns—all with fewer tourists than in high summer.

Do I need to speak German?
Not necessarily. Many guesthouse owners and winemakers speak some English. A few polite German phrases and a smile go a long way.

Is it easy to get around without a car?
Having a car gives you the most flexibility, especially if you want to explore the more remote taverns and trails. However, regional trains and e-bike rentals make it possible to experience a lot without driving.

Are there vegan or vegetarian options?
Some Buschenschanken offer vegetarian-friendly spreads, but options may be limited. It's a good idea to check ahead or let your host know in advance.

Is Südsteiermark safe for solo travelers?
Very. It’s one of the safest areas in Austria, and the locals are incredibly welcoming.

Can I work remotely from there?
Yes. Many guesthouses offer strong Wi-Fi and peaceful surroundings—perfect for remote work or creative retreats.

What should I pack?
Comfortable walking shoes, layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons, a light rain jacket, and a tote for wine or local snacks.

What wine is the region known for?
Sauvignon Blanc and Muskateller are the standouts here, often paired with simple, delicious regional food.

How do I find the best guesthouses and taverns?
Skip the big booking sites. Ask locals, read recent traveler reviews, or use the regional tourism board's website. Or better yet—sign up to Trippers Terminal, and we'll keep scouting the best for you.

✨ Want more hidden gems like this in your inbox? Sign up for the Trippers Terminal newsletter and get cozy slow travel inspiration every week✨

Slow Mornings and Cozy Meadow Walks in Südsteiermark, Austria