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Maurer Wald: Vienna's Verdant Escape
Discover Vienna's tranquil side: hiking, history, and natural beauty await in the sprawling Maurer Wald, a serene escape on the city's edge.
Escape the city bustle in Maurer Wald, a 4 sq km national forest on Vienna's southwestern edge. Part of the larger Wienerwald, it offers hiking trails, historical sites like the Bildeiche and a Neolithic quarry, and tranquil natural beauty.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Maurer Wald
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Vienna, Liesing, 1230, AT
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Getting There
Public Transport
From central Vienna, take tram line 60 to the final stop, 'Rodaun'. From there, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the edge of Maurer Wald. Follow the signs towards Maurer Lange Gasse. A single ticket for public transport in Vienna costs €2.40. Alternatively, from the 'Liesing' train station (accessible by S-Bahn lines S2, S3), take bus line 250 or 251 to 'Wittgensteinstrasse'. From there, it's a short walk to the forest entrance. A single ticket for public transport in Vienna costs €2.40.
Driving
If driving from central Vienna, take the A23 motorway towards Graz. Exit at 'Liesing' and follow signs towards Mauer. Parking is available at the end of Maurer Lange Gasse, near the forest entrance. Parking is free, but spaces can be limited, especially on weekends. Be aware that parking overnight is prohibited and may result in a fine.
Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-sharing service from central Vienna to Maurer Wald will cost approximately €18-€22 and take around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Direct the driver to Maurer Lange Gasse near the forest entrance.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and stunning natural light.
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Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven.
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Bring water, especially during warmer months, as it can take time to explore the area.
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Check the weather forecast before you go and dress accordingly.
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Be aware of unleashed dogs in some areas.
Discover more about Maurer Wald
Maurer Wald, a sprawling national forest on the southwestern periphery of Vienna, offers a serene escape from the city's vibrant energy. Spanning approximately 4 square kilometers, this verdant oasis is a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, seeking respite and recreation amidst its diverse landscapes. The forest's history is intertwined with the surrounding area of Mauer, a former village that became part of Vienna in 1938. Historically, the region was known for its viticulture, and even today, vineyards border the forest, adding to its picturesque charm.
Maurer Wald itself forms part of the larger Wienerwald (Vienna Woods), a vast expanse of forested hills that surrounds the city, offering a green lung and a vital recreational area. Today, Maurer Wald is characterized by its varied terrain, encompassing dense pine forests, open meadows, and gentle hills. Numerous well-maintained hiking trails crisscross the area, catering to all levels of fitness and experience. These trails invite visitors to explore the forest's hidden corners, discover its historical landmarks, and immerse themselves in its natural beauty. City Hiking Trail 6, for example, takes you through the Maurer forest, where you walk through dense trees, across wide fields and along idyllic paths until you reach the Wotruba church which is a real eye-catcher thanks to its unusual architecture.
One of the unique aspects of Maurer Wald is its blend of natural and cultural attractions. The Bildeiche, a towering tree adorned with crucifixes, rosaries, and other religious objects, stands as a testament to the area's spiritual significance. This unusual site serves as a place of pilgrimage and reflection, adding a touch of mystique to the forest's atmosphere. Another intriguing historical site within Maurer Wald is a small quarry used by Neolithic people more than 7,000 years ago. This ancient quarry offers a glimpse into the region's prehistoric past, reminding visitors of the long and rich history that lies beneath their feet.
A brief summary to Maurer Wald
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