
On the first weekend in August, the tree of life circle “Am Himmel” - an eleven-hectare natural area in Vienna's Döbling district - is transformed into an atmospheric Strauss stage with a spectacular panoramic view over the city.
After the opening of the “Am Himmel” festival, the second day is all about cultural enjoyment for the whole family. The day begins with a musical hike to the "Lebensbaumkreis" and ends with the atmospheric Ö1 KulturPicknick.
Klangpfad: Musical tributes to Johann Strauss
If there was one thing Strauss hated, it was walking. But he might have been more indulgent about our musical Wanderung in the idyllic Grinzing district. The route runs parallel to the famous Himmelsstraße (Road to Heaven), and nine members of the Austrian Composers Association will be contributing short premieres at various points on the way, ranging from Vienna-style songs and jazz to New Music and electronics. The contemporary homage to Strauss culminates in a collective on-stage improvisation in “Heaven”.
The group size and therefore the total number of participants is limited. Free counting tickets must therefore be reserved.
No, the event is free of charge.
However, it is necessary to purchase free counting tickets (see above).
The meeting point is Peter-Alexander-Platz.
As there are only a few parking spaces available around Peter-Alexander-Platz, we strongly advise you to travel by public transport.
The nearest stops are “Grinzing” on tram line 38 (terminus) and bus 38A. Please note that in summer there are restrictions or partial closures on the U4 line due to construction work.
We ask all registered participants to be at the meeting point approx. 10-15 minutes before the booked time, as the groups accompanied by a guide will start on time.
The hike takes about 90 minutes in total.
The approx. one and a half hour hike includes slight to moderate inclines and leads along an uneven, sometimes narrow forest path.
The path is not barrier-free.
Hiking boots are not absolutely necessary. However, we recommend sturdy footwear as the path is uneven. Roots run across the path in places and there is loose rubble on the path. Please note that participation may be prohibited if you are wearing completely unsuitable footwear (e.g. flip-flops or heels).
The hike is manageable with an average level of fitness.
Participation is at your own risk and responsibility. Johann Strauss 2025 Vienna and ACOM - Austrian Composers Association accept no liability for damage of any kind to property or people arising from participation.
Due to the nature of the route and the size of the group, no bicycles, scooters, baby carriages etc. can be taken on the hike.
Even if the hike takes place in the morning hours, parts of the trail are in the sun. We therefore recommend that you bring sun protection (sun hat, sun cream, etc.) and a water bottle. If necessary, this can be refilled beforehand at a public hydrant at Peter-Alexander-Platz.
It should also be noted that bushes or grass may protrude onto the path, so an insect repellent may need to be used.
There are no refreshment points or drinks available during the hike.
There is the possibility to refresh yourself before the hike at Café Griesbach (Cobenzlgasse 6, 1190 Vienna), which opens at 8:00 a.m. on the day of the event and will be happy to serve you.
At the end point of the hike, “Am Himmel”, there will be a limited number of food trucks; the Oktogon “Am Himmel” will also be open as usual. Both cash and card payment is possible at the food trucks.
There are no toilets at Peter-Alexander-Platz or on the trail. The nearest toilet facilities (container toilets) are located “Am Himmel”, i.e. at the end of the hike.
If it rains, the hike will not take place.
The ensemble play at 11:30 a.m. on the “Am Himmel” stage will take place regardless of the weather.
The hike takes place through nature and partly through nature reserves - please treat nature with respect: i.e. please do not leave any cigarette butts or other garbage behind during the hike.
Yes, please note:
Participation is at your own risk.
Parents or accompanying adults are liable for their children and wards.