Geography Of Bad Radkersburg

Südoststeiermark is the district that includes Bad Radkersburg in the southeast of the Austrian state of Styria. It is a part of the historical area of Styria, which following World War I was split between Austria and Yugoslavia. Situated on the Mur River’s right bank, the town borders Slovenia. The closest Slovenian town is Gornja Radgona, sometimes referred to as Oberradkersburg, or Upper Radkersburg. A bridge across the river links the two communities, which also have a similar past and culture.

Out of its 29.94 km² total area, 23.64 km² is rural and 6.3 km² is urban. As of 2018, the town had 3,156 residents living at a density of 110 people per km². The cadastral communities of the town include Bad Radkersburg, Laafeld, Pridahof, and Sicheldorf.

Location and Surroundings

South-east Styria, or Südoststeiermark, is the area that includes Bad Radkersburg. Rich soil, a mild climate, and a mountainous terrain define this area. Notable for its wine production is also Welschriesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Traminer, particularly white types. Its scenic beauty and cultural variety have earned the area the moniker “Styrian Tuscany” at times.

Several municipalities that are part of the same district encircle Bad Radkersburg. These are Straden, Tieschen, Sankt Peter am Ottersbach, Halbenrain, Klöch, Mureck, Radkersburg Umgebung. Within 50 kilometers are the closest bigger towns, Leibnitz, Feldbach, and Deutschlandsberg. Graz Airport is 75 km away, while Ljubljana Airport is 130 km away.

Physical Geography

Situated on the easternmost point of the Styrian Basin, which encompasses most of central and southern Styria, is Bad Radkersburg. The Dinaric Alps to the south, the Pannonian Plain to the east and the Alps to the north and west all abut the basin. Sediments of many ages and sources fill the basin, which was created over millions of years by erosion and tectonic activities. Natural resources abound in the basin as well; these include thermal water, coal, oil, gas and salt.

At 209 metres above sea level, on a terrace above the Mur River, is the town. Flowing from Salzburg’s Hohe Tauern mountains to Croatia’s Drava River, it is the second-longest river in Austria, after the Danube. Along its gravelly bed and meandering path, the river creates a number of islands and oxbow lakes. Among the various plants and creatures that depend on the river for home are fish, otters, beavers, willows, and poplars.

Around Bad Radkersburg, there are various hills and valleys mixed in with largely flat or slightly sloping landscape. Primarily sandy or loamy, the soil is good for both winemaking and agriculture. Fields, meadows, orchards, vineyards and woods make up the majority of the vegetation. Mainly made up of oak, beech, hornbeam, and pine trees, the forests offer food and refuge to a variety of animals, including birds, foxes, deer, and boar.

Landforms in Bad Radkersburg

The terrain of Bad Radkersburg is shaped and offers picturesque vistas by a number of man-made and natural formations. Leading landforms include:

The Mur River: The Mur River is the primary natural feature of the town and supplies biodiversity, energy, water, and leisure. Along with connecting Bad Radkersburg with its twin city Gornja Radgona, the river also naturally forms a border between Austria and Slovenia. The river provides numerous of chances for swimming, fishing, and sightseeing and can be explored by boat, bike, or foot.
The Mur Island: Opposite the town center in the middle of the river is a sizable sandbank. It’s a well-liked place for recreation, sunbathing and picnics. A little chapel on the island, devoted to St. John the Baptist, was built in the fifteenth century as well. A pedestrian bridge connecting the island to the mainland is festooned with vibrant flags and lamps during festivals and other occasions.
The Castle Hill: The castle and the town walls are situated atop the Castle Hill, a little rise on the western side of the town. A broad perspective over the Mur River, the Slovenian hills, the town and the surrounding region are all available from the summit. With the parish church, town hall, castle museum, and several statues and monuments, the hill is also a historical and cultural site.
The Spa Park: The thermal bath and health center are located in the sizeable green park on the eastern edge of the town. With so many trees, flowers, grass and ponds, the park is a cool and soothing haven. A sculpture garden, playground, miniature golf course, and fountain are further amenities of the park. Both residents and tourists like to stroll, exercise, bike, or just relax in the shade of the park.

Rivers and Lakes

Being the only significant river in the town, the Mur River has a significant impact on Bad Radkersburg. The 453 km long river is split up into 295 km in Austria and 158 km in Slovenia and Croatia. The Mürz, the Sulm, the Saggau, and the Ledava are a few of the tributaries that supply the 13,824 km2 drainage basin of the river. The seasonal and rainfall variations cause the river’s mean discharge near the boundary to vary from 166 m. Being a part of the Natura 2000 network of protected areas and supporting a wide range of flora and wildlife, the river has great ecological value.

The river or human activity generated a number of artificial lakes in Bad Radkersburg; there are no natural lakes there. Prominent lakes include:

The Mur Lake: The river south of the town created the sizable oxbow lake. The about 40 hectare lake is popular for boating, birdwatching, and fishing. Because so many uncommon and endangered species call the lake home, it is also a nature reserve.
The Black Lake: To the north of the town, peat excavation produced this little pond. About one hectare in size, the lake is used for leisure and swimming. With its beach, pier, slide and kiosk, the lake is also a popular recreational spot. The organic stuff in the water gives the lake its name.
The Klöcher Lake is a little reservoir formed west of the town by damming the Klöcherbach stream. About 0.5 hectares in surface area, the lake is used for fishing and irrigation. The lake’s surrounds of hills and vineyards make it a picturesque location as well. The lake bears the name Klöch, after the neighboring hamlet well-known for its castle and wine.

Mountain Ranges Nearby

Though some of the smaller mountain ranges are reachable in a day, Bad Radkersburg is not particularly near to any of the larger ones. Among the neighboring mountain ranges of note are:

The Gleinalpe: Northwest of Bad Radkersburg, located between the Mur and Saggau valleys, is a low mountain range known as the Gleinalpe. The range peaks at 1,985 meters at the Speikkogel and is roughly 40 kilometers long and 15 kilometers wide. The range has numerous of hiking and bike routes, ski resorts, and thermal baths in addition to woods, pastures, and alpine meadows. Additionally abundant in cultural and historical sites are the range’s museums, churches, and castles.
The Pohorje: Southwest of Bad Radkersburg on the Slovenian side of the border sits the Pohorje, a high plateau. About 50 km long and 30 km wide, the plateau tops out at 1,543 m at the Črni vrh. Bears, wolves, lynxes, and orchids are just a few of the plants and animals that call the plateau, which is largely covered by coniferous and deciduous woods, peat bogs, and lakes, home. The plateau is also a well-liked location for outdoor pursuits including paragliding, cycling, snowshoeing and skiing. Among the many natural and cultural landmarks on the plateau are the Žiče Charterhouse, the Lovrenc Lakes, and the Rogla Olympic Center.
The Karawanks: South of Bad Radkersburg, in the boundary between Austria and Slovenia, lie the lengthy Karawanks. The range is roughly 120 km long, 20 km broad, and tops out at 2,236 m at the Hochstuhl. With a great deal of peaks, ridges, valleys, and caverns, the range is largely made up of limestone and dolomite rocks. For mountaineers, climbers, and hikers, who can take in the breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the Alps, the range is also a paradise. Numerous historical and cultural landmarks, including the Vintgar Gorge, Bled Castle, and Peričnik Waterfall, are also scattered throughout the range.

Human Geography

The population of Bad Radkersburg is estimated to be 3,200 at the 2021 census. Lower than the average of Styria (123.5 people per km2) and Austria (107.6 people per km2), the population density is 106.8 people per km2. Owing to resident aging and migration, the population has been somewhat falling during the last few decades. Though there are minorities of Slovenian, Croatian, German, and Hungarian descent, Austrians make up the bulk of the population. Though some individuals also speak Slovenian, Croatian, or other languages, German is the official tongue. Roman Catholicism predominates, with Protestantism, Islam, and other religions following.

Specially from Austria, Germany, and Slovenia, Bad Radkersburg is a popular spa resort with numerous visitors. With so many hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, cafes, and stores, the town boasts a thriving tourist sector. In addition, the town boasts a thriving social and cultural scene with a plethora of annual celebrations and events like the Advent Market, the Wine Festival, the Jazz Festival, and the Carnival. Because it keeps tight links with its twin city Gornja Radgona and other nearby communities, the town also has a strong feeling of identity and community.

With multiple schools, colleges, and medical institutions, Bad Radkersburg is also a center for education and healthcare. There is a branch of the University of Graz in the town in addition to primary, secondary, vocational, and music schools. Additionally providing a range of services and treatments to the local and surrounding people are the town’s health center, hospital, rehabilitation center, and thermal spa.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Good infrastructure and a well-developed transportation network link Bad Radkersburg to the rest of the state and nation. The town’s roadway system includes a number of municipal roads, the L203 regional route, and the B69 state road. A railway station serving the town is also a part of the Graz-Radkersburg line and provides regular trains to Graz, Maribor, and other locations. Together with a cab service, the town also boasts a bus terminal that offers both local and regional bus services. A cycling network including multiple bike paths and bike rental facilities is also available throughout the town. A pedestrian zone that promotes cycling and walking also exists in the town and encompasses the spa park and historic center.

Additionally well-connected to its neighbors, particularly Slovenia, is Bad Radkersburg. A border crossing in the town permits unrestricted movement of persons and products and is open around-the-clock. Another feature of the town that promotes cross-border collaboration and trade is a bridge that connects Bad Radkersburg with Gornja Radgona. An other picturesque and different method of crossing the river is provided by the town’s ferry, which runs between Bad Radkersburg and Mursko Središće. Additionally serving small aircraft and helicopters, the town has an airstrip situated in the neighboring community of Ratschendorf.

Natural Attractions

Outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of the natural world will find much to enjoy in Bad Radkersburg. Leading natural features include:

The Thermal Spring: The town’s primary draw, the thermal spring offers both physical and mental relaxation and healing. The 80 °C thermal spring is rich in a number of minerals, including sulfur, magnesium, calcium and salt. Through its selection of pools, saunas, massages, and treatments, the thermal spa provides access to the thermal spring. Additionally the town’s drinking water comes from the thermal spring, which is said to be good for the immune system and digestion.
The Mur Island: Visitors may take in the sun, the sand, and the water on this natural haven in the middle of the river. There are many picnics, sunbathing, and playing spots on the island. Additionally on the island is a little church from the fifteenth century that is devoted to St. John the Baptist. A pedestrian bridge connecting the island to the mainland is festooned with vibrant flags and lamps during festivals and other occasions.
The Mur Lake: The river south of the town created the sizable oxbow lake known as Mur Lake. Because the lake supports so many uncommon and endangered species, including the European pond turtle, the great crested grebe, the black stork, and the white-tailed eagle, it is a nature reserve. Because it is so full of fish—carp, pike, perch, and catfish—the lake is also a fishing heaven. One can enjoy a peaceful and picturesque experience exploring the lake by foot, bike, or boat.
The Klöcher Lake: The Klöcher Lake is a little reservoir formed west of the town by damming the Klöcherbach stream. Hillocks and vineyards encircle the lake, which provides a lovely vista of the surrounding area. Because the lake holds trout, tench, and roach, it is also a popular fishing location. A pleasant spot for a stroll or picnic, the lake is accessible by foot, bike, or car.
The Spa Park: The thermal bath and health centre are located in the vast green bath Park on the eastern side of the town. With so many trees, flowers, grass and ponds, the park is a cool and soothing haven. A sculpture garden, playground, miniature golf course, and fountain are further amenities of the park. Both residents and tourists like to stroll, exercise, bike, or just relax in the shade of the park.

Parks and Green Spaces

There are several parks and green areas in Bad Radkersburg that provide both locals and tourists a nice and healthy atmosphere. Prominent parks and green areas include:

The City Park: Adjacent to Castle Hill in the town center sits a little park. Being formerly the castle’s garden, the park is a historical and cultural landmark with a number of statues and monuments, including the four-season fountain, Emperor Franz Joseph’s bust, and the soldier’s fallen memorial. With so many native and exotic plants—palms, cypresses, magnolias, and roses—the park doubles as a botanical garden. Nice for a stroll, a picnic, or a rest is the park.
The Mur Promenade: From the bridge to the lake, a long and broad walkway hugs the river. Because it includes so many benches, tables, playgrounds, and sports facilities, the promenade is a popular recreational and leisure area. Because it provides a lovely view of the river, the island, and the sunset, the promenade is also a picturesque and romantic location. Promenade users frequently stroll, bike, jog, or skate there.
The Vineyard Park: Situated on the slopes of Klöcher hill, west of the town, is the sizable vineyard park. With its vineyards and orchards covering it and producing some of the best fruits and wines in the area, the park is a natural and agricultural site. A viewing tower, a wine museum, and a wine trail make the park an instructive and scenic location. It’s a terrific area to hike, taste, or study.

Nature Reserves

The town’s and the region’s biodiversity are safeguarded and preserved by a number of nature reserves in Bad Radkersburg. Remarkable natural reserves include:

The Mur-Auen: The Mur-Auen is a sizable wetland region spanning the Mur River’s floodplains from the lake to the border. The roughly 500 hectare park is a member of the Natura 2000 network of protected areas. Numerous plants and animals, including frogs, snakes, dragonflies, water lilies, sedges, and reeds, call the area home. For many species, including herons, egrets, ducks, geese, and swans, the region serves as a resting and breeding ground. The place provides a singular and varied experience and can be seen by boat, bike, or foot.
The Klöcher Weinberge: Comprising the orchards and vineyards on the Klöcher hill, it is a little hillside region. The roughly 100 hectare region is a member of the Natura 2000 network of protected areas. Numerous plants and creatures, including grasses, flowers, shrubs, lizards, mice, hedgehogs, and bats, call the region home. For several birds, including woodpeckers, owls, finches, and warblers, the region serves as a nesting and foraging ground. One can enjoy the lovely and tranquil surroundings of the area on foot, by bike, or by automobile.
The Bad Radkersburg Moor: The former peat extracting location in the north of the town is covered by the little peatland area known as the Bad Radkersburg Moor. The roughly 10 hectare area is a member of the Natura 2000 network of protected areas. Among the many flora and creatures that call the region home are cranes, newts, ferns, orchids, and mosses. An information center, an observation tower, and a nature walk make the location a research and education facility as well. One can see the region on foot, by bike, or by car, and it provides an uncommon and fascinating experience.

Scenic Points of Interest

The town and the surrounding area are stunningly and diversely viewed from the several picturesque spots in Bad Radkersburg. Among the most noteworthy picturesque locations are:

The Castle Tower: The 13th-century castle tower is the tallest point and oldest section of the structure. 36 meters high, the tower features a 144-step spiral stairway. The public may view the town, the river, the island, the lake, and the hills from the 360-degree observation deck. Observable from a distance, the tower is also a landmark and a representation of the community.
The Bridge: Linking Bad Radkersburg and Gornja Radgona, it is a sleek and contemporary construction. The original wooden bridge that had been destroyed during World War II was replaced by the new one in 1969. The 256 meter long bridge features a concrete deck and a steel arch. The bridge provides a stunning vista of the river, the island, and the twin towns and is accessible to cars, bikes and pedestrians. Together with serving as a symbol of friendship and collaboration between the two nations, the bridge facilitates a number of cross-border events and activities.
The Lookout Tower: In the vineyard park, at the summit of Klöcher hill, lies the lookout tower, a timber and metal construction. The 2003 construction of the tower honors the local environment and wine. The platform of the 21-meter-tall tower features a compass and telescope. The public may admire the panorama of the mountains, the lake, the vineyards, and the countryside from the tower. For the park’s hikers, bikers, and wine enthusiasts, the tower serves both as a destination and a reward.

Cultural Geography

Historical Sites

Cultural Geography

Numerous historical sites in Bad Radkersburg trace their history to several eras and historical events. Notable historical sites include:

The Castle: Constructed in the twelfth century, it is the town’s oldest and most noticeable structure. Initially a stronghold protecting the town from attackers, the castle was eventually enlarged and restored by a succession of kings and nobility. Today the castle serves as a museum showcasing the local and regional history, art, and culture. All year long, the castle also presents a number of concerts, exhibitions, and celebrations.
The City Walls: The city walls are the surviving remnants of the 13th-century mediaeval defenses that encircled the town. German King Albert I erected the walls and bestowed upon the town city rights. Several times the walls were rebuilt and renovated, particularly during the Napoleonic and Ottoman conflicts. Now a town landmark and monument, the walls are visible from many directions.
The Old Town: The historic core of the town, the Old Town, is dated to the Middle Ages and early modern eras. The little, meandering lanes, the elaborate and colorful homes, and the quaint and energetic vibe all define the old town. Numerous churches, monuments, and fountains, such the Holy Trinity Column, the Fountain of the Four Seasons, and the St. Lawrence Church, are also located in the old town. A pedestrian area, the old town welcomes guests to stroll around and take in its charm and splendor.

Architectural Landmarks

Cultural Geography

Numerous architectural landmarks in Bad Radkersburg illustrate the diverse architectural eras and influences. Notable architectural sites include:

The Town Hall: The town hall is the town’s principal administrative structure and was constructed in the sixteenth century. With its clock tower, gabled roof and arcaded courtyard, the town hall is a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture. With the wedding hall, tourist information, and mayor’s office housed inside, the town hall serves as a cultural and social center as well. The town hall also has a mural that tells the tales and history of the area.
The Parish Church: The primary religious structure of the town, the parish church was constructed in the fifteenth century. With its stained glass windows, ribbed vaults and pointed arches, the parish church is an outstanding specimen of the Gothic architecture. With so many altars, paintings, and sculptures—including the high altar, the crucifixion group, and the Madonna with Child—the parish church serves as both a spiritual and artistic center. A bell tower atop the parish church also sounds the bells on special occasions and every hour.
The Thermal Spa: The primary draw of the town is the 20th-century thermal spa. The thermal spa is a contemporary, sophisticated building with a glass façade, a curving roof, and a roomy inside. With so many pools, saunas, massages and treatments, the thermal spa doubles as a wellness and leisure facility. In order to satisfy the demands and tastes of its patrons, the thermal spa also features a restaurant, a bar and a shop.