Discovering Spielberg: Days Out and Dining Around the Red Bull Ring

Race weekends at the Red Bull Ring are spectacular – but there's far more to the Spielberg area than petrol fumes and engine roar. Here's how to fill the gaps between sessions without missing a beat.

Let's be honest: a race weekend doesn't mean you have to stand trackside from dawn till dusk. Especially if you're travelling with family or staying a few extra days, it's worth exploring what's around you. Spielberg and the Murtal valley have plenty going on – from traditional inns to gentle cycling routes and thermal spas when the weather turns.

What can I do in Spielberg itself?

Spielberg is a likeable, low-key sort of place – no fuss, no crowds. Right in the village centre (about 600 metres from Schitterhof) there's a public playground, perfect for a quick reset with the kids between sessions. Around the square you'll find a handful of nice cafés and small shops – nothing flashy, but pleasant enough for a midday espresso or ice cream.

For anyone who likes being outdoors: the circular walk from Schitterhof via the Red Bull Ring and back through Spielberg takes around 45 minutes, is completely flat and runs through open meadows and fields. Families with buggies or older guests manage it easily – and the views across the Styrian hills are a quiet bonus.

Where's good for cycling or e-biking?

If you've brought an e-bike or fancy hiring one locally, you're in the right place. The Murradweg R2 cycle path is roughly ten minutes away and ranks among the most relaxed routes in Steiermark. It runs largely flat alongside the Mur river – you can head towards Judenburg (around 15 kilometres) or the other way to Knittelfeld. Both make for easy half-day rides when things are still quiet at the circuit.

A bit more demanding but genuinely scenic: the route towards Seckau. This small Benedictine abbey sits tucked into gentle mountains and makes an ideal destination for a half-day e-bike loop. Seckau itself has a few decent country inns if you want to stop for lunch. Our tip: start early, and you'll have the afternoon free for trackside action.

Are there family-friendly spots or rainy-day options?

Absolutely. When the weather doesn't cooperate or the kids have had enough of the circuit, the Therme Aqualux in Fohnsdorf is a solid choice. It's about 15 kilometres away, with indoor pools, saunas and slides – everything a proper spa should offer. Especially with younger children, it's a welcome change of pace, and adults appreciate a few relaxed hours in warm water too.

If you're sporty and fancy golf: the Golfclub Murtal is practically around the corner. There's also the Reitclub Sachendorf nearby – if someone in your group fancies a trail ride, it's easily arranged. Activities like these round out a race weekend nicely, particularly for families where not everyone shares the same enthusiasm for motorsport.

Another rainy-day option: the Zechnerteich near Knittelfeld (around 6 kilometres). In good weather it's a small, natural swimming lake – no grand lido, but pleasantly quiet and ideal for cooling off after a hot day trackside.

Where can I eat well – beyond the campsite?

At Schitterhof itself you already have two dining areas: MATTEO with breakfast, pizza and pasta in the evenings, plus MAMAS TACOS for anyone who's into Mexican food (awarded 3 Falstaff flowers in 2026). Both run daily from roughly 07:00 to 23:00 – more details in our FAQ.

If you still want to eat elsewhere: Spielberg has a few traditional inns serving solid Styrian fare – fried chicken, cheese spätzle, roast pork, you know the sort. Nothing fancy, but genuine and well-executed. Around Knittelfeld and Judenburg you'll find a decent spread too: from classic pizzerias to elevated country restaurants.

Many guests use the free supermarket shuttle, which runs every half hour on Fridays and Saturdays, to stock up – then barbecue at their pitch in the evening. Gas and electric grills are fine; charcoal and open fires aren't. That way you can put together a relaxed dinner on your own terms while others are already prepping for the next session.

Is it worth staying longer beyond the event itself?

Definitely. Plenty of our guests arrive a day or two early or stay an extra night after the race – simply to get a feel for the area without rushing. It's not overrun, the landscape is lovely, and you've got enough going on to fill the time properly. Whether it's a bike ride, the thermal spa, a trip to Judenburg or just a leisurely morning in the village – the Murtal makes it easy to extend your race weekend with a few quiet days either side.

No stress, no crowds, no noise. Exactly what feels right after three days of motorsport.

At a glance:

• Murradweg R2 cycle path 10 min. from Spielberg
• Therme Aqualux approx. 15 km away
• Red Bull Ring sits in the heart of the Murtal valley
• free supermarket shuttle Fridays & Saturdays

_Image: The Styrian hills around Spielberg invite you to catch your breath between events_