Summary

IBWISE invites Pre-IB and Mid-IB students to a challenging and unforgettable 6-day leadership trip in the picturesque mountain village of Mariazell and its surrounding Ötscher region in the Austrian Fore Alps — just 1.5 hours from Vienna. Students will experience breathtaking mountain hikes, traditional Austrian crafts and farm life, volunteer service in the Ötscher national park, and an overnight stay in a mountain hut.

The trip is led by Dr. Alexander Grubich, an experienced IB CAS coordinator, PD workshop leader, and teacher at the Vienna International School. Each student receives an official IB CAS certificate documenting their accomplished hours and activities, which can also support university applications.

Cost: €1,750 / 1 week (all-inclusive: half board, transportation, 24/7 care & activities)

Program Features

  • Earn an official IB CAS certificate documenting hours and activities completed during the trip
  • Led by Dr. Alexander Grubich, IB CAS coordinator and IBO Professional Development workshop leader at the Vienna International School
  • Experience authentic Austrian alpine culture through traditional farm activities, bread-making, and local craftsmanship
  • Volunteer in the Ötscher national park and help preserve the local natural ecosystem
  • Overnight stay in a traditional mountain hut (Schutzhaus Vorderötscher) after hiking through the stunning Ötschergräben canyon

What's Included?

  • Half-board accommodation (Hotel Weißer Hirsch + overnight at Schutzhaus Vorderötscher mountain hut)
  • All transportation (airport/IBWISE HQ pick-up and drop-off, bus to/from Mariazell)
  • 24/7 supervision and care by experienced IB educators and activity coaches
  • All CAS activities and excursions (hikes, farm visits, volunteering, workshops)
  • certificate with documented hours and activity descriptions

Program Details

  • Date July 15–20, 2026
  • Duration 1 week (6 days / 5 nights)
  • Ages 16-19
  • Fees €1,750 / 1 week
  • Location Mariazell, Styria, Austria (Austrian Alps / Ötscher region)

More Information

The programme is built around the IB CAS framework, covering Creativity, Activity, and Service components in an immersive, experiential setting. Students engage in daily CAS reflections and debrief sessions led by Dr. Alexander Grubich, a certified IBO Professional Development workshop leader for CAS. Each participant receives an official CAS certificate with documented hours, descriptions, and dates — suitable for IB portfolios and university applications. The focus is on local and global issues, and the programme offers tailored incentives for both Pre-IB and Mid-IB students.

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Make an enquiry or start an application for this program.

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