Eiblkogel

The Eiblkogel stands at 1,831 metres as the highest point on a long ridge in the Gleinalpe north-west of Graz. The ridge, often called the Lammalm, stretches from north-east to south-west with a broad, grassy summit plateau. Two summits mark the top: the lower one at 1,807 metres and the higher Eiblkogel itself. The name Lammalm also refers to the alpine pasture lower down or the whole ridge, while Lammkogel is a separate summit to the south-east. The Eiblkogel rises clearly above the surrounding peaks, separated from higher neighbours by the Kreuzsattel at 1,583 metres, once a key pass for pack animals. The Eiblkogel lies on several long-distance trails: the European E6, the Central Alpine Trail and the North-South Trail. Walkers usually reach it from the south via forest tracks to the Lammkogel saddle near the Lammhütte at about 1,470 metres, then follow unmarked paths. From the north a road runs from Kleinlobming up the Weitental valley to the Zechneralm, where a marked route leads over the Kreuzsattel to join the long-distance paths and reach the summit. The ridge also forms the boundary between Graz-Umgebung and Leoben districts. On the summit visitors find open grassland and wide views across the surrounding ranges. The long, gentle northern slope drops towards Kleinlobming while the southern side falls steeply into the Übelbach valley. The Kreuzsattel and Polstersattel frame the ridge, and the Gleinalmtunnel now runs beneath the eastern slopes. The contrast between the broad summit plateau and the narrow alpine valleys below makes the Eiblkogel a rewarding destination for walkers.