Rising an impressive 2,396 m, it is the highest elevation in the Seetal and Lavantal Alps, and is a magnet for mountain tours with its spectacular views. Climb up through dense spruce forests, later supplanted by larch and Swiss stone pine.
The high-alpine world opens up as an almost flat plateau. Hike past crystalline lakes and roam through unspoiled nature. With any luck, you might spot a marmot or a chamois to accompany you for a little way. One insider's tip is to make the climb just before sunrise. Enjoy breakfast on the summit with a mug of steaming coffee as you watch the vivid red landscape beneath you slowly awaken from its slumber.
The Zirbitzkogel didn't get its name from the "Zirbe" (Swiss stone pine), as might have been assumed, but from the Croatian word "čьrvenica" meaning "red area". When the alpine rose blooms, the land around the Zirbitz blazes in the most beautiful tones of red, pink and purple. The alpine rose blossoms from the end of June to early July, attracting many nature lovers to the Murtal every year. Up here, you'll also find the well-known gentian and medicinal St. John's wort.
Many roads lead to Rome... and many to the Zirbitz in Styria. You can conquer the king of the Murtal from all directions and explore its beauty and extraordinary power. On the peak there's a hearty snack to be savoured in the Schutzhütte (hut); once you're back down, there are various places to sample delicacies at the foot of the mountain, such as the Sabathyhütte or the Winterleitenhütte, which also offer accommodation.