gaberl

If you are looking for a peaceful, uncomplicated opportunity to enjoy the true heart of the Styrian Alps in Austria, please consider the delightful surprise you'll find at the top of Gaberl Pass. Located at 1.550m, just about an hour's drive from Graz in a region called the "Lippizanerheimatland", there are only two ways up the mountain. But once you are there, be ready for stunning alpine views, a ski and snowboard school, a summer camp for huskies (www.huskycamp.at), long, wonderful hiking trails, a cross-country ski trail that used to be a Roman trade road, and some of the friendliest people I've ever met. There are four traditional gasthaus lokals to choose from, some condos, and a hotel. A spectacular feature is the installation of 5 giant windmills along the forest path that are collecting energy for the nearby community of Kleinlobming. They are almost surreal in their appearance above the tree tops but have become a symbol of Austria's innovative spirit to protect the environment by maximizing its natural resources.The snow was late coming in 2014, but the locals say that it's predicted to improve in early 2015. My husband and I recently bought a house in the micro-community there (fewer than 20 houses total) and just experienced a recent snowfall that opened the lifts and brightened everyone's spirits! What a joy :) If you are looking for lovely long walks in all seasons, and a simple alpine lifestyle filled with happy people, wildlife, and the inspiration of nature, a visit to the community surrounding Gaberl/Stubalpe-Salla is a wonderful treat!