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Steinige Ries: A Wachau Wilderness

Explore bizarre rock formations and an untouched oak and hornbeam forest in Austria's Wachau Valley at Steinige Ries wildlife refuge.

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Steinige Ries, or 'Stony Giant,' is a captivating wildlife refuge in Lower Austria's Wachau Valley. It features impressive rock formations and an untouched oak and hornbeam forest. This protected area offers a unique and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Steinige Ries

  • Gemeinde, Rossatz-Arnsdorf, AT
  • 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

  • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the trails, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
  • Bring your own refreshments, as there are no facilities for food or drinks within the refuge.
  • Visit in the spring or summer to see the wildflowers in bloom and enjoy the full vibrancy of the forest.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Krems an der Donau, take the WL1 bus to Rossatz-Arnsdorf Gemeindeamt (town hall). From there, walk towards Steinige Ries, following signs through the village outskirts and into the wooded area. The walk takes approximately 30-45 minutes. A single bus fare from Krems is approximately €4.

  • Driving

    From Krems, take the B33 towards Rossatz-Arnsdorf. Upon entering Rossatz, follow signs for 'Steinige Ries'. Limited free parking is available near the entrance to the refuge. From the parking area, it's a short walk to the start of the hiking trails. Parking spaces are limited, especially during peak season.

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Discover more about Steinige Ries

Steinige Ries, nestled within the Gemeinde of Rossatz-Arnsdorf in Lower Austria's picturesque Wachau Valley, is a captivating wildlife refuge that offers a unique and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts. This protected area, whose name translates to 'Stony Giant,' lives up to its moniker with its impressive rock formations and ancient woodland. It is a place where time seems to slow down, allowing visitors to connect with the raw beauty and tranquility of the natural world. The refuge is characterized by its bizarre and craggy rock formations, remnants of geological processes that have shaped the landscape over millennia. These stony giants create a dramatic backdrop for the area's most significant feature: its imposing, untouched oak and hornbeam forest. This old-growth woodland, relatively undisturbed by human intervention, provides a glimpse into what much of the Wachau region might have looked like centuries ago. The dense canopy filters sunlight, creating a cool, shaded environment that supports a rich understory of plant life. Steinige Ries is a haven for biodiversity, providing a sanctuary for a wide array of flora and fauna. The diverse habitats within the reserve, ranging from rocky outcrops to dense woodland, support a variety of species, some of which are rare or endangered. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the opportunity to spot the elusive white-backed woodpecker, a species seldom seen elsewhere. Other avian inhabitants include the black stork and various woodpecker species, all thriving in the refuge's undisturbed environment. The forest floor is carpeted with a variety of plant species, including ferns, mosses, and wildflowers that bloom in vibrant colors throughout the spring and summer months. The interplay of light and shadow creates a magical atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore the hidden corners of this natural wonderland. Keep an eye out for the European green lizard and the Aesculapian snake, which can grow up to two metres. Steinige Ries is more than just a wildlife refuge; it is a living testament to the importance of preserving our natural heritage. By protecting this unique ecosystem, we ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of this Wachau wilderness. The area contributes to the ecological diversity of the World Heritage Site.

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