Nationalpark Nockberge: A natural experience of a special kind...

Gentle mountains, overwhelming natural beauty
The Nockalm Road in Carinthia comes very close to being the perfect stretch of road.

It leads 35 kilometers through gently rolling mountains covered by alpine lodges, pastures, sparse forests, lakes and flowering alpine rose meadows.

Natural and culinary delights
The gentle Nocky Mountains, vegetated all the way up to the summit, are a geological rarity and unique in the Alps. Numerous hairpin bends – referred to as "Reidn" in Carinthia – and the relatively gentle ascent afford wonderful panoramic views. Plenty of culinary delights are available at the stops: the hut wardens along the road pamper visitors with Carinthian specialties or homemade cheeses.

Exploring and learning about nature
In addition, the road offers a number of exhibitions such as the "Marmot Show," the "Museum for Alpine Farming" on the Zechneralm or the "Island in the Current of Time" multimedia show invite visitors to explore the region's special features. When the weather is nice, themed nature trails such as the "Elements Trail" or the "Silva Magica" adventure park at the Grundalm, offer an opportunity to explore nature on the Nocky Mountains with all of the senses on short hikes.

Nockalmhof (1,700 m)
Starting in the summer of 2012 the new National Park Center next to the Nockalmhof will open with a fossil exhibition unique in Austria. Visitors will find a spacious restaurant, permanent exhibitions, a shop, the National Park Information Point, an interactive children's exhibition on the topic of "Bats," a playground as well as panorama maps and information boards.