Too high demands on yourself, unhealthy perfectionism, constant stress. This may sound familiar to some people these days. And for all those who would like to do something about it, a secluded spot above Eberstein in the Görtschitztal valley has a pleasant surprise in store: The Gnadenquelle spring on the Steinmar. It carries a special rock water that is said to have healing properties for people who constantly demand too much of themselves.
Refreshment for body and soul
The very place where the spring is located radiates a peculiar power. Situated on the secluded edge of the forest and along an old pilgrimage path from Maria Moos towards Hochfreistritz, the spring of grace gurgles incessantly into a noble stone fountain. There is usually not a soul to disturb the idyll, and a wooden bench next to the spring invites you to pause for a moment while the sun peeks through the spruce branches. An ideal place to refresh yourself with the sparkling mountain water. Physically and mentally.
Directions
The Gnadenquelle am Steinmar may be away from the hustle and bustle of the world, but it is still easy to reach: Coming from the village center of Eberstein in the Görtschitztal valley, you drive towards St. Oswald and have the option of parking your car here to walk to the spring in around 40 minutes. However, you can also take the “Norischer Panoramaweg” by car (direction Hoblacher, Winkler, follow the signs). Shortly before the Winkler farmstead, a new, wide path leads off, ignore this and take the narrower one with the yellow-green markings. The fountain can be reached from here in just under five minutes on foot. It is located on an old pilgrims’ path to Maria Moos and in the direction of Feistritz.
