Austrian Grand Prix: Off-the-Track Highlights – OROGOLD Reviews
The Austrian Grand Prix in Spielberg is world famous for many reasons, from the spectacular entertainment to the unique track layout to the actual race itself. As exciting as the race may be, there will come a time when you need a break from the suspense, so take a look at some of these off the track highlights that OROGOLD has rounded up.
Food and Drink
At many race tracks around the world, the most that you can find to eat is a cheap burger or hot dog, but not at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg. Bull’s Lane, located in the pit building, above the pit lanes, with a great view of the finish line, is a stylish, contemporary bistro, serving up Styrian dishes with a modern twist, as well as sports bar classics. OROGOLD recommends relaxing on the gorgeous roof terrace with a drink and watching the action below. Most of the other restaurants nearby, from the restaurant at Hotel Hofwirt to the Schloss Gabelhofen restaurant, also serve up award-winning Styrian cuisine in authentic, traditional surroundings, making Spielberg quite the gastronomical hotspot.
Outdoor Adventure
With such a gorgeous natural landscape, the area around Spielberg is often neglected for the Red Bull Ring, but there are many other highlights that you can enjoy. Styria’s Erzberg, also known as Iron Mountain, is a large open-pit mining area that is still active. Tours are offered in large Haulys, otherwise known as big dumper trucks, where you will be taken along the different levels of the Erzberg and have the opportunity to see the other trucks at work. You will also be able to visit the underground mining maze and learn about the history of mining in the area. The Rachau Treetop Hiking Route is also an adventure that OROGOLD highly recommends, as it is the highest treetop hiking route in the whole of Europe. The 2.7km route takes about two hours to complete, with specific highlights being the Wildlife Adventure Trail and the floating observation deck. The whole hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of the heart of Austria.
Indoor Attractions
Like many areas around Europe, the weather can be extremely unpredictable, and if you find yourself caught in a torrential downpour that doesn’t seem to be letting up, then it’s the perfect time to check out some of these indoor activities. The Aquarien and Terrarienclub is open every Sunday, and its exotic fish species and many reptiles can keep children occupied for hours. If you want to venture further out, the Seckau Abbey is ideal for a day trip. Built in 1164, the abbey is a fascinating place to soak in some culture and historic art. OROGOLD also highly recommends a visit to the abbey’s schnapps distillery.
The Austrian Grand Prix attracts fans from all over the world, meaning that hotels and attractions get booked up well in advance. OROGOLD recommends checking ahead of time to make sure that there is availability for any activities that you are wanting to do.