Travel diary: Day 3

Day 3: Further Discoveries in the Dreamy South Styria

The third day of my journey was entirely dedicated to South Styria, a region that had already captivated me the day before with its picturesque landscapes and delicious wines. Today, I wanted to dive deeper into the culture and nature of this area.

The morning began with a hike along the South Styrian Wine Trail. This path, winding through gentle hills and along lush green vineyards, offered breathtaking views and the perfect opportunity to let the tranquility and beauty of the region sink in. The chirping of birds and the soft rustling of leaves in the wind were my companions as I wandered through this dreamy landscape.

After a few hours, I reached a small village, whose heart was another charming Buschenschank. Here, I took a break and tried regional specialties: Verhackert, a spread made from smoked bacon, a beetroot bean salad with pumpkin seed oil, and, of course, a selection of local wines. It was a feast for the senses, surrounded by locals and fellow hikers who, like me, enjoyed the hospitality and culinary delights of Styria.

In the afternoon, I visited a local pumpkin seed oil press. Styria is famous for its pumpkin seed oil, a dark, nutty oil used in regional cuisine. I watched the pumpkin seeds being pressed and learned more about the traditions and the significance of the oil in Styrian culture. Of course, a tasting was a must, and I was amazed by the variety of flavors this oil can produce.

I spent the evening at one of the many wineries that shape the landscape of South Styria. During a tour of the vineyards and wine cellar, I learned more about viticulture and the philosophy of the winemaker. The day ended with a dinner at the winery, where each course was perfectly paired with the estate's own wines. My third day in South Styria was a wonderful combination of nature, culture, and gastronomy. I was fascinated by the beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the people, and the unique taste experiences. With many new impressions and memories, I fell into bed, tired but happy, ready for the adventures the next day would bring.