Carinthian Nockberge mountains
The gently rolling Nockberge Mountains, rising from the valley of the Lieser and extending towards the Turracher Höhe area, provide a unique Alpine mountain range in the heart of beautiful Carinthia. The name "Nocke" comes from the round shape of the softly rolling mountains and hills between 2,200m and 2,300m above sea level. Admire the varied fauna and flora of the stunning nature preserve which was awarded its status as National Park by the Carinthian authorities in 1987
Nockberge mountain pastures
The Nockberge mountains excel not only in their natural beauty but also due to the harmonious interaction with cultivated alpine landscape. Over centuries of hard labor local farmers have cultivated and protected extensive mountain pastures. These pastures, with dairy farms dotted here and there, combine to form a peaceful image of extraordinary environmental beauty. The economic activity on alpine pastures partially constitutes the basis of the locals' livelihood.
Hiking area and Nockalm road
The particular beauty of this natural preserve makes hiking in the Nockberge mountains a wonderful adventure. Its gentle contours make the Nockberge the perfect hiking region, offering even less experienced hikers numerous varied and interesting trails. The routes lead from the surrounding high-lying mountain villages St. Oswald, Kaning, Innernöring, Innerkrems and Turrach to the very core of the National Park. The 34 km long Nockalm road, rising to more than 2.000 m sea level on both the Schiestlscharte and the Eisentalhöhe, is the starting point for hikes of various lengths and levels of difficulty. Along the road you’ll find a number of information points of interest.
Guided hikes
The National Park administration offers interested visitors guided walks, focusing on different themes.