At the western edge of Feistritz an der Drau is the Maria am Bichl Chapel; the cross on Schulbichl stands on Villacher Straße, level with the Neue Mittelschule. Behind the “FETZ” tennis restaurant is the Motorik- und Generationenpark. Another option is the easy “Drau Auen Runde” hike, accessible via Feistritz an der Drau. The choices therefore range from local history to a recreation area and a hike.

The chapel and the cross: two historical traces of time

The Maria am Bichl Chapel was first mentioned in a document in 1426. This date marks a written reference, not necessarily the beginning of the building. In 1903, the chapel was renovated and given a Neo-Gothic design. Neo-Gothic refers to the revival of Gothic design in a later period; here, the term therefore describes the renovation, not the first mention. To understand its history, it is worth distinguishing between the documentary reference and the later structural changes. Its location at the western edge of the village also makes the chapel a concrete point of reference.

The cross on Schulbichl has a different location and history. It stands on Villacher Straße, level with the Neue Mittelschule. According to oral tradition, the cross has been there since the 16th century. This date is explicitly based on oral tradition, setting it apart from the chapel’s first documentary mention. The two historical traces therefore cannot be equated: one is a tradition, the other a first written reference followed by a later renovation. The history of the Lacknerhof also goes back further than the 15th century.

Recreation and hiking

Another point of interest is the Motorik- und Generationenpark in Feistritz an der Drau. It is located behind the “FETZ” tennis restaurant, which serves as a reference point for its location. The park adds a recreational element to the historical themes. When planning, you can therefore decide whether the cultural traces or a place for recreation will play a bigger role in your stay.

If you would like to include a hike, the “Drau Auen Runde” is another option. It is described as an easy hike and is accessible via Feistritz an der Drau. This means that, alongside the chapel, cross and park, outdoor activity is another option. Local trail conditions may change, so check them before setting out.

Getting here and finding a hotel

Two different reference points are given for getting here. By car, Feistritz an der Drau is accessible via the A10 Tauern Motorway and the Feistritz/Drau exit. By rail, the Tauern Railway serves the Paternion-Feistritz stop. If you are travelling by train, it is a good idea to check the current Tauern Railway timetable.

Then factor your mode of transport into your plans. This helps you choose a hotel that suits the focus of your trip, rather than simply working through a list of sights.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Treffen am Ossiacher See, Bad Bleiberg, Fahrendorf, Frießnitz, Töplitsch, Stockenboi, St. Egyden, Gummern

For the broader travel overview: Villach.