Steinplan

The Steinplan is a 1,670-metre mountain in the Austrian province of Styria. It stands apart from the Stubalpe and Gleinalpe ranges, rising above the Upper Murtal valley to the northwest. The Lobmingtal valley curves around its southern and south-eastern flanks, while deep gullies such as the Sulzbachgraben and Geierleitengraben cut into the western slopes. The Rachau area marks the northern edge of this rugged terrain, and the Turneralm section of the Gleinalpe connects to the north-east.

The mountain is a popular day-trip destination thanks to the Steinplan Schutzhaus at its summit. Two long-distance trails cross the peak: one stage of the Zentralalpenweg comes from Gleinalmschutzhaus and descends to Knittelfeld, while a stage of the Via Alpina (Violet Way) links the Gaberl pass to the Steinplan before continuing north into the Rachau and ending in Knittelfeld. A shorter local route starts in the Lobmingtal, and a gentler but longer approach runs from the Gaberl pass. On the north-west side, the Brandwaldsteig offers a mountain-bike singletrail.

The summit area is an open, gently rolling alpine meadow ringed by trees. A rocky outcrop holds the summit cross just above the Steinplan Schutzhaus, which has stood since the early 20th century. The building is run by the Naturfreunde and provides simple overnight accommodation. Views stretch across the Murtal valley and towards the surrounding ranges, making it a rewarding place to pause before heading back down.