Perchtoldsdorfer Heide: Vienna's Steppe Escape

4.8 (1210)

Discover a unique steppe landscape near Vienna: hiking trails, rare wildflowers, diverse wildlife, and stunning views await at Perchtoldsdorfer Heide.

Home
Austria
Vienna Woods
Perchtoldsdorfer Heide

Perchtoldsdorfer Heide, a nature preserve near Vienna, offers a unique steppe-like landscape formed after the last ice age. With diverse flora and fauna, including rare wildflowers and a ground squirrel colony, it's a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Enjoy panoramic views and explore trails through grasslands, heathlands, and sparse woodlands.

A brief summary to Perchtoldsdorfer Heide

Schutzhausstraße 2380, Perchtoldsdorf, 2380, AT
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit in spring to witness the Heide's vibrant wildflower displays, including rare species like the spring adonis and dwarf iris.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching and keep an eye out for the ground squirrel colony, a favorite among visitors.
Check the Heideverein's website for guided tours led by biologists, offering insights into the area's unique features.
Explore the trails leading to Teufelstein and relax at Teufelsteinhütte.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Wandplastik Alchemist Sehfeld

Wandplastik Alchemist Sehfeld: A Modern Alchemic Sculpture

Winery Wölflinger Karl & Karin

Winery Wölflinger Karl & Karin: A Taste of Viennese Wine Culture

Burgruine Kammerstein

Discover the Majestic Ruins of Burgruine Kammerstein

Getting There

Public Transport

From Vienna, take tram line 60 to its terminus in Rodaun. From there, it's a 10-15 minute walk to the Perchtoldsdorfer Heide via Dr. Gorlitzer-Gasse. Alternatively, take the U6 subway line to Siebenhirten, then bus line 255 to the 'Schutzhausstraße' stop in Perchtoldsdorf, a short walk from the Heide. A single Vienna public transport ticket costs around €2.40.
Driving

From Vienna, take the A1 motorway, then the A21 to the Perchtoldsdorf (B11) exit. Follow B11 into Perchtoldsdorf, then look for Schutzhausstraße. Follow it to the Heide. Parking is available at the Heideparkplatz (Berggasse/Lohnsteinstraße). Parking fees may apply during peak hours. Parking at Hyrtlgasse 4 is also an option, about 0.74km away. Burgparkplatz on Leonhardiberggasse is another parking location. Parking costs vary.
Walking

From the end station of Tram 60 in Rodaun, walk along Dr. Gorlitzer-Gasse for 10-15 minutes to reach Perchtoldsdorfer Heide. Follow the signs and enjoy the stroll through the outskirts of Perchtoldsdorf. No costs involved.

Discover more about Perchtoldsdorfer Heide

Perchtoldsdorfer Heide, a captivating nature preserve nestled in Lower Austria, presents a unique landscape just a stone's throw from Vienna. Often described as a steppe on the edge of the city, this protected area offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a diverse and ecologically significant environment. Formed as a relic of the last ice age, the Heide's landscape is a mosaic of dry grasslands, heathlands, sparse woodlands, and rocky terrain. This variety supports an impressive array of plant and animal life, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape from urban life. The area is divided into two main sections: the Kleine Heide (Small Heide) in the south and the Grosse Heide (Large Heide) with the Saugraben valley in the north. Historically, the Perchtoldsdorfer Heide has been shaped by human activity, primarily through grazing and land management practices dating back millennia. This long history of interaction has created a unique cultural landscape where rare habitats, plants, and animals thrive. Today, careful management is essential to preserve this natural jewel. The Heide is home to over 300 plant species, many of which are rare and adapted to the dry conditions. In spring, the landscape bursts into color with wildflowers, including the spring adonis, grape hyacinth, and dwarf iris. These species benefit from the grazing management coordinated by the Heideverein, which uses various sheep breeds to maintain the grassland ecosystem. The diverse flora supports a rich fauna, including numerous wild bee and butterfly species. The area is also known for its ground squirrel colony, a popular attraction for visitors of all ages. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, and with a bit of luck, one might even encounter the elusive emerald lizard or fire salamander. Several well-marked hiking trails crisscross the Perchtoldsdorfer Heide, catering to different skill levels and interests. These trails offer opportunities to explore the diverse landscapes, enjoy panoramic views of the Vienna Basin, and discover the area's natural treasures. The trails lead to the Teufelstein, with the Teufelsteinhütte offering a place to rest.