At Dietenberg, archaeological history and hiking trails take centre stage: an important hilltop settlement, a reconstructed Celtic house and a variety of route descriptions give the place its distinctive character. Added to these are views across Styria and, on the Celtic Trail, a view of Ligist. Which details interest you most depends on whether you want to focus on the settlement, the Celtic house or the landscape as you walk.
Hilltop Settlement and Landscape
The hilltop settlement on Dietenberg is one of Styria’s most significant archaeological sites. It is a listed monument because of its distinctive defensive system. Its settlement layout includes seven artificially created terraces that are still visible, each protected by a rampart. The number and arrangement of the terraces give the site its specific form and make clear that defence played an important role here.
The shape of Dietenberg also defines the place: it is an island-like elevation with steep slopes and a plateau running from east to west. From there, you can enjoy far-reaching views across central and western Styria. The landscape and archaeological site complement each other as two aspects of a visit: the view stretches across the region, while the terraces and ramparts bring the history of the hilltop settlement to life.
Celtic House and Trails at Dietenberg
The reconstructed Celtic house offers insight into the living and housing conditions of people in the Late La Tène period, around 100 BC. Guided tours of the house last 30 to 60 minutes and must be booked in advance. If you would like to plan a guided tour, be sure to take both the stated duration and the advance booking requirement into account.
The prehistoric hiking trail leads from the Celtic house up to Dietenberg. Other route descriptions have their own highlights: the Celtic Trail runs through vineyards and offers a view of Ligist. The long Ligist Circular Trail starts at Ligist market square and initially follows the Celtic Trail and Dietenberg; along the way, there is a lovely view of Ligist. On Ligist Tour 748, the final climb to Dietenberg is paired with views and a Brettljause. You should check separately whether the Brettljause is available. The routes therefore offer different perspectives: the trail from the Celtic house to the hilltop settlement, the view of Ligist and the final climb on Tour 748.
Wine Tavern, Viticulture and History
The Kremser Buschenschank, also known as Greitbauer, at Dietenberg offers views from Ligist to Graz and can be reached via numerous hiking trails. A sign at the Buschenschank recalls Dietenberg’s historical role as a Kreidfeuer signal station within the so-called Draulinie. It connects a specific place at Dietenberg with its recorded role within this line.
The Kremser family business also produces wine, runs a Buschenschank, makes vinegar and distils spirits as secondary occupations. Its vineyards cover four hectares; Blauer Wildbacher is the most widely grown grape variety there. These details describe the range of the business, from viticulture to vinegar and spirit production, without presenting the different activities as a single offering.
Summer Festival at Schilcherhof
The Summer Festival at Schilcherhof takes place every year in July and August. The programme features folk, jazz, blues, funk and cabaret, accompanied by food from the kitchen and wine. Details vary from year to year, so check the current programme before your trip. The festival thus complements the archaeological and landscape themes with music and cabaret, while a visit to the Celtic house requires a guided tour to be arranged in advance.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Köflach, Hirschegg-Rein, Salla, Edelschrott, Modriach, Voitsberg, Rosental an der Kainach, Bernau.
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