Gently rolling hills of the Alpine foothills (1,000 m above sea level) spread over the northern part of the province of Styria. A typical low mountain range stretches out before the eye with unspoilt nature, abundant pasture, steep valleys, clear mountain streams and moors, lush green meadows enriched with corn fields glowing golden in the summer sun and densely wooded forests known to be the largest continuous area of woodland in Styria. In-between rural villages and homesteads can be seen scattered in the landscape.

 

Legend has it that the name ‘Joglland’ stems from the time when Maria Theresia-Empress of the Austro-Hungarian Empire-was travelling through this part of her empire and remarked to her coachman about the many hills in this area thereby given this region its name. The term ‘Joglland’ may also stem from ‘Jogl’, an abbreviation for the very common name Jakobus, which was often given to children then who were named after the Saint Jacobus known to be the patron saint of skippers, apothecaries, even soldiers and, above all, of all pilgrims who used to travel in large numbers through this region.

Tradition is still important in the Joglland where numerous festivities are celebrated throughout the year such as the Kornmandlfest held on 31 July 2005 in Waisenegg. The annual Flower Parade is another highlight in the region. The election of the Flower Queen takes place on 11 September in Vorau. The Krapfenkirtag on 17 July 2005 offers the opportunity to try delicious local doughnut specialties from the treasures of old cookery books. In order to bring your body in shape again you may take advantage of the different sports activities offered in the region: take part in the Rattener Panorama Run, the Kraftspende-Mountainbike Half Marathon or the Nordic Walk around the monastery of Vorau. If you prefer a leisure hike through the landscape then the ‘Joglland Roas’ is the right choice for you in order to leave the stresses of everyday behind and soak up the unspoilt scenery. If you are someone who seeks a more comfortable way to explore the region then hop on the slow train for a nostalgic ride through the eastern part of beautiful Styria. Still there are many more attractions and sights for you to see in the Joglland- so try plan some more days in this area. For further information on events contact: