The Forest and Whiskey Trail leads from Kirchschlag through quiet forests to Roggenreith and combines nature, chapels, and the pleasure of Waldviertel whiskey.
The Roggenreith Forest and Whiskey Trail combines the tranquil landscape of the Waldviertel with small chapels, scenic trails, and regional culinary delights. This varied loop trail begins in Kirchschlag and leads through quiet forests all the way to Roggenreith—right past the Waldviertel Whisky Experience.
For our guests staying in the vacation rentals Gutenbrunn This hike makes for a wonderful day trip: experience nature, enjoy the fresh forest air, and discover special attractions in the southern Waldviertel.
The Forest and Whiskey Tour at a Glance
- Starting point: Parking lot at the Kirchschlag Elementary School
- Destination: Kirchschlag Elementary School
- Route length: approximately 11.25 kilometers
- Walking time: about 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Elevation gain: approximately 106 meters
- Difficulty: medium
- Wegart: Forest trails, dirt roads, and local connecting paths
- Strollers: Generally suitable, according to the official tour description
- A Place to Stop and a Tourist Attraction: The Waldviertel Whiskey Experience in Roggenreith
Depending on your fitness level, breaks, and sightseeing, you should plan for a little extra time.
Hiking Between Kirchschlag and Roggenreith
The starting point of the Forest and Whiskey Trail is at the elementary school in Kirchschlag. From there, the trail first leads through the Eckerholz forest to the Hubertus Chapel.
The route then continues via Schmalzau and Rohraustraße to the Waldhof Chapel. The small chapel is situated in a quiet forest clearing and is a perfect spot for a first break.
From there, the trail continues through the typical Waldviertel countryside toward Roggenreith. Forests, meadows, and fields accompany you on this particularly pleasant section of the hike.
Waldviertel Whiskey Experience in Roggenreith
One of the highlights of the hike is the Waldviertel Whiskey Experience. Here, visitors learn how Waldviertel whiskey is made from regional grains, pure water, and meticulous craftsmanship.
Depending on the hours of operation, you can visit the interactive exhibition, browse the shop, or take a guided tour. We recommend registering in advance for guided tours and tastings.
If you’d like to sample some whiskey, you should arrange for safe transportation back home before you set out on your trip. Alternatively, you can visit the attraction on your own without going on the hike afterward.
Pilgrimage Church of the Blue Lord
On the way back, the pilgrimage church at the Blue Lord Another cultural highlight. The church is one of the region’s most special places of spiritual strength and devotion.
The so-called "Blue Lord" inside the church gave the pilgrimage church its name. Take some time to explore the church at your own pace and soak up the special atmosphere of this historic site.
A Nature Experience for Families and Leisure Hikers
The Forest and Whiskey Trail is not a challenging mountain hike. Nevertheless, sturdy shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, plenty of water, and a small snack are recommended.
According to the official tour description, the route is considered stroller-friendly and accessible. Since forest trails can be wet or uneven depending on the weather, families and guests with limited mobility should check the current trail conditions in advance. “Accessible” does not automatically mean “completely” wheelchair accessible.
There is also a public playground at the Kirchschlag Elementary School. This makes it easy to combine the hike with a family outing.
Other places to visit around Roggenreith
There's even more to discover in Roggenreith and Kirchschlag:
- Waldviertel Whiskey Experience
- Fire-Water-Garden Roggenreith
- Celtic Cycle of Life and the Tree of the Year
- Pilgrimage Church of the Blue Lord
- Historical Active Trail Kirchschlag
- The Origins of the Kleine Krems
- Kirchschlag Preliminary Round
This way, you can combine several destinations and plan a varied day of vacation in the Waldviertel.
Our Tip from Anna and Herbert
It’s best to start in the morning and allow plenty of time for the chapels and the Whiskey Experience. The walk is especially beautiful on a mild spring or fall day, when the light filters through the woods and the landscape around Roggenreith reveals its tranquil side.
You can find the latest tour information, the route map, and the GPX download on the official website of the Forest and Whiskey Tour. Before your trip, please also check the current opening hours of the Whisky Experience and any restaurants or cafes you might visit.
Vacation at the Gutenbrunn Vacation Rentals
After your hike, enjoy the peace and comfort of your vacation rental in Gutenbrunn. Our apartments are an ideal starting point for hikes, nature excursions, and culinary adventures in the southern Waldviertel region.
We, Anna and Herbert, would be happy to give you personalized recommendations for other places to visit and help you plan your vacation.
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