It’s a sensation at the Herberstein Wildlife Park in Eastern Styria: For the first time since the zoo’s founding, there are adorable lion cubs—Spartacus, Maximus, and Tiberius. Visiting the cubs is a true experience in Styria’s “Apple Country,” which also offers unique relaxation, culinary delights, and entertainment.

In the “Erlebnis Österreich” episode “Löwenstarkes Apfelland − Sommerfrische in der Oststeiermark,”ORF Styria producer Renate Rosbaud takes viewers on a cinematic journey through the diversity of Eastern Styria while following the lion cubs as they grow up. To film this, the ORF team visited Spartacus, Maximus, and Tiberius—including in their birthing box—and also filmed the young lion family in their outdoor enclosure. The zoologist, animal keepers, and the zoo veterinarian from Tierwelt discuss the development and needs of the young big cats.

In addition, Renate Rosbaud and her team, together with a local family, explored the Styrian Apple Country, which offers a wide variety of experiences for all generations, especially during the summer months. Among other things, the film stops for a bike ride through the Feistritz Gorge and a boat ride on Lake Stubenberg, offering a glimpse into the region’s cuisine and hospitality. Another highlight is a hot-air balloon ride from Schielleiten Castle over the “lion-strong apple country.”

“The Lion-Strong Apple Country — A Summer Retreat in Eastern Styria”
Air date: “Erlebnis Österreich,” March 14, 2021, 4:30 p.m., ORF 2
Director: Renate Rosbaud, Camera: Erhard Seidl, Editor: Edith Schabauer
Production: ORF Steiermark