Trip to Sternstein and the Stone Lookout Tower 🇦🇹 (6.8 km · elevation gain 313 m)

Pushchair: ❌  |  Dog: ✅

This loop will take you to one of the most prominent peaks on the Austrian side of the Bohemian Forest, where history, the healing power of water, and panoramas combine for breathtaking views in clear weather.

Start: Parking at the Sternsteinhof Hotel

The trip starts at the car park by the Sternsteinhof hotel. This hotel has one unique feature – it is designated as a Frauenhotel, meaning it is exclusively for women. However, the car park is commonly used by hikers heading up to the summit.

First Section: To Waldschenke am Sternstein

From the car park, follow the asphalt road for a short while and then turn immediately right into the forest where the first climb begins. The trail leads through pleasant woodland to the Waldschenke am Sternstein mountain restaurant.

The Spring by the Restaurant

Right by the restaurant, a natural spring flows into a stone trough. The water is crystal clear, ice-cold, and perfectly safe to drink. It is one of the springs that flow down to Bad Leonfelden, a well-known spa town with a long tradition of healing treatments.

Other Springs Along the Way

On your way up, you might notice other spring sources hidden under metal sheds. You can hear the water flowing inside, but the springs are locked and inaccessible as they are strictly protected sources supplying the local spa.

Ascent to the Stone Lookout Tower

From the restaurant, the route continues uphill to the Sternsteinwarte (Stone Lookout Tower) itself. This 20-metre-high tower made of granite blocks offers panoramic views in all directions.

  • Admission: €2 into the coin box by the door.
  • The View: You will see the entire Bohemian Forest, the Novohradské Mountains, and on a clear day, even Alpine peaks like Dachstein.
  • Lake Lipno: Don’t expect a direct view of the water towards Lipno, as the horizon is blocked by the ridge with wind turbines, but the view of the Lake Lipno region is still magnificent.

Descent and Return via Ski Slopes

Don’t return the same way from the lookout tower. Continue along the marked loop. The descent leads across the slopes of the local ski resort, offering open views of the Austrian countryside. The path then continues through pristine forests on soft trails where you can enjoy total silence and very few people. The loop closes back at the car park by the Sternsteinhof hotel.

Sternstein and Stone Lookout Tower on the Map

📍 Where to return after your trip

After a trip to Sternstein and the Stone Lookout Tower, you’ll need a place where you can truly unwind. Our family apartments at Lake Lipno are an ideal base for trips to both the Austrian and Czech sides. After your return, peace, comfort, a large garden, a pool, a playground, and a fish restaurant await you, where you can enjoy a great meal after your hike.

In the surrounding area, you’ll find other beautiful trails, forest paths, and places that children and adults alike will enjoy.

Book your stay in time — while availability lasts.
We look forward to seeing you!

Other trips nearby