Gurktal Alps

The Gurktal Alps is a mountain range in Carinthia and Styria with rounded peaks and moderate slopes situated between other alpine regions. The massif is cut through by valleys and contains several ski resorts along with hiking trails across different elevations.

The region was shaped economically by iron and silver mining for centuries, which influenced how settlements developed. As these industries declined, tourism emerged to become the main economic foundation for local communities.

Mountain villages here maintain a rural way of life where alpine farming and local crafts remain central to the community. Visitors can experience this lived culture directly through the small settlements and working farms scattered across the landscape.

The area is easily reached from Villach and Klagenfurt and offers good facilities for winter sports and hiking. Visitors should prepare for changeable mountain weather and bring suitable gear depending on the season.

The western Nockberge section has a distinctive feature: many peaks end with '-nock', such as Rosennock and Rinsennock. This naming pattern is a linguistic peculiarity found only in this part of the mountains.