The Paths of the Senses are inspiring themed trails for relaxation, mental recuperation and reorientation for the people of St. Pölten as well as German and English-speaking guests to our city. There are currently two paths - the river path along the Traisen in the city area and the forest path through the Kaiserwald forest to the Hochzeitswald forest in St. Pölten.
Both trails invite you to get some inspiration repeatedly and selectively in your free time. However, they are also ideal for two hours of deep contemplation and relaxation.
Freshly signposted, the new inspiring "Paths of the Senses" invite you to rediscover St. Pölten along the forest or river. The signs set up at specially selected stations aim to provide people with relaxation and (self-)reflection: with aphorisms by Austrian author Markus Mirwald and impulses from Ingrid Hahnl-Bichler (river) and life and social counselor Sabine Ruprecht (forest).
"Many tourist destinations advertise the qualities of places and their effects: from feel-good places and places of power to themed trails. St. Pölten also has a lot to offer here," says Matthias Weiländer from Marketing St. Pölten GmbH, explaining the motives and sustainable benefits. "Visitors and residents already use these trails to relax and unwind. With these two paths, we are making another aspect visible - and creating offers with guided accompaniment. Or even instructions on how to use them yourself for anyone who is interested, regardless of whether they are guests or residents."
Paths of the senses along the river in St. Pölten, the Traisen is the city's lifeline and, with its green spaces along the banks, a popular recreational area with many possibilities. Photo: Werner Jäger
Further impulses
Hahnl-Bichler's tip for anyone who comes across a sign during their walks: "It's worth taking a further look online - simply scan the QR code at the bottom right of each sign. You will then find additional inspiration on the website, which is constantly being expanded."
How can we best experience the themed trails? "Even though we have of course thought about the order," explains Hahnl-Bichler, "it's just as nice to simply start with a board - and perhaps come back at some point and walk the whole way. For example, with a notebook for your own thoughts in your hand. The seasonal change of the forest and the meadows always provides new insights and perspectives."
And: "Personally, I'm particularly looking forward to the tours led by Sabine and myself," she beams. "These are organized by the tourist office as part of the City Tours 2024."
