The Stainzer Flascherlzug is a historic narrow-gauge railway in the West Styria region of Austria, running between Stainz and Preding-Wieselsdorf. After facing closure in 2025 due to financial difficulties, the railway was saved by a private association and resumed operations on 2 May 2026.
đźš‚ Quick Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | West Styria, Austria |
| Route | Stainz – Preding-Wieselsdorf (11.5–11.9 km) |
| Track Gauge | 760 mm (Bosnian gauge) |
| Opened | 1892 |
| Operated By | Verein Freunde der Stainzerbahn (since April 2026) |
| Journey Time | Approximately 50 minutes one way; plan 2–3 hours for round trip |
| Intermediate Stop | Kraubath |
đź“ś The Name
The train’s unusual name dates back to the turn of the 20th century. A well-known “miracle healer” known as “Höllerhansl” practiced in Rachling and was said to diagnose diseases from urine samples. Many people travelled by train to visit him, carrying a “Flascherl” (small bottle) of urine in their luggage — hence the name “Flascherlzug” (Little Bottle Train). Today, many of the approximately 25,000 annual passengers are said to still carry a bottle in their luggage — though usually filled with Schilcher, the region’s famous rosĂ© wine.
đź“ś History and Rescue
The Stainzerbahn opened in 1892 and is the oldest narrow-gauge railway in Styria. In October 2025, the Stainz municipal council voted to cease operations due to high renovation costs and annual deficits. The municipality was investing approximately €130,000 per year in the railway, with an estimated €1.3 million needed for track maintenance alone.
Following public pressure, thousands of petition signatures, and the efforts of the newly formed “Freunde der Stainzerbahn” association, a lease agreement was reached. The association took over operations in April 2026 with support from the State of Styria. At the opening ceremony on 2 May 2026, Governor Mario Kunasek presented a symbolic cheque for €11,600 — one euro for each petition signature collected.
✨ The Experience
The journey takes you through the picturesque Schilcherland region, passing meadows and countryside along the 11.5-kilometre route. A serving wagon on board ensures culinary well-being during the trip.
đź“… Planning Your Visit (2026 Season)
Operating Days and Times:
| Period | Days | Departure Time |
|---|---|---|
| 2 May – 7 June | Saturday, Sunday | 15:00 |
| 8 June – 12 July | Thursday, Saturday, Sunday | Thu 10:00; Sat/Sun 15:00 |
| 13 July – 6 September | Saturday, Sunday | 15:00 |
| 7 September – 24 October | Thursday, Sunday | 10:00 |
| 25 October – 31 October | Saturday, Sunday | 14:00 |
Special Dates:
- 5 December: Nikolausfahrt (St. Nicholas Ride) at 14:00
- 24 December: Christkindlfahrt (Christmas Eve Ride) at 13:00
The steam locomotive is used on Sundays.
Tickets and Reservations:
- Tickets from approximately €9.00Â
- Reservations: Tel. (0043) 664/9615205 or email zug@stainz.gv.atÂ
- Special trips (Sonderfahrten) are available on request
đź“Ť Contact
Der Stainzer Flascherlzug / Freunde der Stainzer Bahn
Franz Zettl
BahnhofstraĂźe 28
8510 Stainz, Austria
I hope this gives you a good overview of the Stainzer Flascherlzug! If you’d like more details on specific timetables or the special rides, feel free to ask.