Sternstein

The Sternstein is a mountain in northern Upper Austria, its summit reaching 1 125 metres above sea level. It straddles the districts of Bad Leonfelden and Vorderweißenbach, and its northern slopes cross into the Czech Republic. Part of the Bohemian Massif, the mountain belongs to the Bohemian Forest range. The region around it is one of the coldest in Upper Austria, with an average yearly temperature below 6 °C. Springs rising from lower slopes supply water to the nearby towns. A 20-metre observation tower was built on the summit in 1898 to honour Emperor Franz Joseph I. The tower remains a leading attraction and can be reached by several hiking routes from all sides of the mountain. In winter the east flank offers four kilometres of ski slopes served by a combined funicular and chair lift with a capacity of 2 850 people per hour. Cross-country skiing is also popular in the area. When the snow melts, the mountain becomes a focus for hikers and mountain bikers. The long-distance Nordwaldkammweg trail passes along its ridges, linking distant landscapes. On clear days the tower’s viewing platform reveals views across Upper Austria and into the Czech Republic. The mountain’s cool climate and clean air draw visitors throughout the year.