Welcome To Pernitz & Gutenstein
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Lower Austria, Pernitz is a hidden gem that invites visitors to discover its rich history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Located in the heart of the Piesting Valley, this charming town provides a tranquil retreat away from the bustling cities, offering a chance to immerse oneself in the idyllic countryside of Austria.
Pernitz is blessed with breathtaking natural surroundings, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby Schneeberg mountain, the highest peak in Lower Austria, stands as a majestic backdrop, inviting hikers to explore its scenic trails and indulge in panoramic views from its summit. Whether you're an experienced mountaineer or a leisurely walker, the well-marked paths offer a range of options suitable for all levels of fitness and adventure.
For those seeking tranquility, the Piesting River gracefully meanders through the valley, providing a serene setting for relaxation and contemplation. The lush forests that carpet the landscape offer the opportunity to reconnect with nature, with the melodic birdsong and gentle rustling of leaves creating a symphony that soothes the soul.
Pernitz is a town steeped in history and culture, with architectural treasures that harken back to its past. Explore the charming town center, where well-preserved buildings display a blend of architectural styles, from Gothic to Baroque. The picturesque Parish Church of St. Thomas, with its beautiful frescoes and ornate decorations, stands as a testament to the town's rich heritage. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere and admiring the intricate details of the historical facades.
The town's warm community spirit is evident in its local festivals and events. The Pernitz Village Festival, held annually, brings residents and visitors together in celebration, with traditional music, dance, and culinary delights. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as the town comes alive with laughter, music, and the joyful spirit of camaraderie.
Pernitz is also a gateway to further exploration of the Lower Austrian region. Within a short drive, you can discover the enchanting Semmering Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its architectural marvels and scenic train journeys through the mountains. The nearby Höllental Gorge offers thrilling hiking experiences, with its narrow passages, towering cliffs, and rushing waterfalls.
Pernitz, Lower Austria, with its natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming community, provides an escape to a tranquil and idyllic countryside. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a respite from the noise of modern life, Pernitz promises an experience that will leave a lasting impression and a yearning to return to this hidden treasure in the heart of Lower Austria.
SIGHTS OF INTEREST IN PERNITZ AND NEIGHBORING TOWNS
Myra Waterfalls
Myra Falls (also known as Muggendorf Waterfalls) is a series of seven cascading waterfalls located in the town of Muggendorf, Austria (video). The falls are accessible by a well-maintained hiking trail, and visitors can experience the beauty of the falls up close by crossing over bridges and climbing stairs. The area around the falls is also home to rare and endangered plant species, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers..
Castle Ruin Gutenstein
The Burgruine in Gutenstein (video), Austria is a historic castle ruin dating back to the 12th century. It was once a grand fortress, but was destroyed during the Ottoman Wars in the 16th century. Despite its ruinous state, the Burgruine still attracts visitors today (currently closed for renovations) due to its picturesque location on a hill overlooking the town of Gutenstein and the scenic Gölsen river valley. In recent years, the castle has also been used as a backdrop for cultural events such as concerts and theatrical performances.
Farmers Market
Aside from the healthiest and tastiest true Greek Virgin Olive Oil, this is what you can find at the Farmers' Market in neighboring Gutenstein: Cheese, farmer's bread, desserts, jams, cider, select wines, brandies, liqueurs, seasonal fruits and vegetables, honey, sheep wool products, beef and pork, legumes, Styrian pumpkin seed oil, aronia and resin products, wild game meat products, trout, Uhudler specialties, arts and crafts, woodturning, local books, and a book flea market! Visit them HERE
View from Mariahilfberg
Mariahilfberg
Mariahilfberg is a place of pilgrimage located in the southern region of Lower Austria on a saddle below the 818-meter high Residenzberg and about a 15 minute drive from Pernitz. Situated on this elevation (708 meters above sea level) are the Mariahilfberg pilgrimage church, a Servite monastery, a Way of the Cross with a holy tomb, a hermitage, other sacred memorials, and a few secular buildings. Picture Credits: Michael Kreuzer and Markus Doerfler.
Waldbauernmuseum
The collection of the Gutenstein Forest Farmer's Museum is dedicated to the agricultural side industries of the forest farmers. It contains tools and equipment used in various wood processing production branches.
The Old Hofmühle has proven to be a very suitable place for housing the collection. Its diverse architectural structure allows for each industry to have its own room while maintaining and even emphasizing the character of a workshop.
Until 1848, the Old Hofmühle was intended to grind grain for the lordly manor, the parish (tithe), the citizens of the market town of Gutenstein, and for those farmers who did not have their own mills. The Old Hofmühle was always leased. In 1942, the last tenant, Leopold Bienert, was able to purchase it. However, with the decline of grain farming in the mountains, the mill came to a standstill in the 1950s.
It was only when a suitable building was sought for the ethnographic collections of the Society of Friends of Gutenstein that a suitable dedication was found for the economically valuable operation site "Old Hofmühle". Friedrich Schmid of Wopfinger Stone and Lime Works was able to purchase the building in 2003. Since then, he and later his son Robert have made it available to the Society of Friends of Gutenstein for the exhibition.
History of Pernitz in a Nutshell
The origin of the name Pernitz is the Slavic word perenica, which refers to a stream on which charcoal is used. The Slavic settlement was preceded by a Celtic settlement. The name was first mentioned in 1020 in the Falkensteiner Codex, when "Pernize" was mentioned in count Siboto's accounting of taxable land belonging to "Herandistein" (Hernstein) .
The church in Pernitz was first mentioned to exist since 1447 by Parish Priest Franz Weiss in a 1947 publication about the parishes history, but there are indication that it already existed as far back as 1327.
Since the 17th century, Pernitz experienced growth, interrupted by the plague in 1679 and the Second Turkish Siege in 1683. In 1828, a road was constructed. It was linked by railway to Leobersdorf and Gutenstein in 1877. Pernitz received water in 1904 and energy in 1908. It became a market town in 1961.
Downloadable Itinerary: Piestingtal Sampler
Where to stay
At the newly built Hilton Garden Inn
Promenade 6, 2700 Wiener Neustadt
Where to eat
Gasthaus Weidinger
Bräunlichgasse 10, 2700 Wiener Neustadt