Prealps East of the Mur

The Prealps East of the Mur form the easternmost range of the Central Eastern Alps, running along the Mur river in the Steiermark region. This mountain belt rises from the Alpine crest to the southeast, marking the transition between the high Alps and the rolling foreland. Its northern edge follows the Steinfeld basin and the Semmering Pass, while the Mur itself separates it from the Lavanttal Alps to the west. The southern limit fades toward the Hungarian Plain near Bruck an der Leitha. Within this range lie several distinct massifs, each with its own character. The Fischbach Alps reach 1,783 metres at Stuhleck, while the Wechsel massif tops out at Hochwechsel at 1,743 metres. The Graz Highlands rise to Hochlantsch at 1,720 metres, and lower hills such as the Leitha Mountains and Rosalia Mountains form the eastern foothills. The Sopron Mountains and Bucklige Welt add gentler ridges, and the Joglland and Kőszeg Mountains extend the chain toward the Hungarian border. Visitors find a varied landscape of forested slopes, alpine meadows and vineyard-dotted hills. The higher peaks offer open ridges and panoramic views over the Mur valley and the surrounding countryside. Lower hills are criss-crossed by walking trails and country lanes, passing through small villages and farmland. The contrast between rugged alpine terrain and softer foothills makes the region attractive for both hikers and those seeking quieter scenery.