Best Landmarks in Waldviertel
Planning a trip to Waldviertel? Discover the best landmarks in Waldviertel with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best landmarks in Waldviertel
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- A–Z
45 landmarks
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Historical landmark4.7★3,170 reviews
Dürnstein Castle
Perched high above the Danube in the Wachau Valley, Dürnstein Castle is a ruined medieval fortress famous for imprisoning Richard the Lionheart in the 12th century. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the castle and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Open 24 hours
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Castle4.6★2,891 reviews
Schloss Rosenburg
Perched high above the Kamp Valley, Schloss Rosenburg is a stunning Renaissance castle with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Known for its impressive architecture, falconry displays, and beautiful gardens, it's a must-see attraction in Lower Austria.
Mon 9:30–17:00 · Wed–Sun 9:30–17:00
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Nature preserve4.7★1,897 reviews
Naturpark Blockheide-Eibenstein
Naturpark Blockheide-Eibenstein, near Gmünd, Austria, is a protected area with heathland, forests, meadows, and granite formations. The park's 'Wackelsteine' (rocking stones) are delicately balanced granite boulders that can be moved with some force. Several themed hiking trails offer insights into the region's natural and cultural history.
Daily 10:00–18:00
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Hiking area4.8★1,667 reviews
Ysperklamm - wildes Wasser, wilder Wald
The Ysperklamm, a natural monument since 1952, is a breathtaking gorge in Lower Austria sculpted by the Ysper River over millennia. Hike through cascading waterfalls, explore ancient Celtic trails, and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Waldviertel region.
Open 24 hours
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Wildlife refuge4.6★1,333 reviews
UnterWasserReich Naturpark Hochmoor Schrems - Top-Ausflugsziel in Niederösterreich
Explore the unique world of bogs and ponds at UnterWasserReich Naturpark Hochmoor Schrems. This nature park offers an interactive experience with diverse flora and fauna, including otters, native fish, and rare moor frogs. Discover the beauty and importance of this protected landscape through exhibits, a water garden, and scenic walking trails.
Daily 10:00–17:00
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History museum4.6★1,252 reviews
Schloss Artstetten
Schloss Artstetten is a castle in Lower Austria, near the Wachau Valley, serving as the final resting place of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife, Sophie. The castle museum showcases the life and times of the ill-fated couple, offering a glimpse into Austrian history.
Daily 10:00–16:30
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Hiking area4.8★1,020 reviews
Mendlingtal
Mendlingtal, nestled in Göstling an der Ybbs, Austria, offers a unique hiking experience through a gorge that was once a vital timber rafting route. Explore historic mills, clear streams, and lush landscapes while learning about the region's rich cultural heritage.
Daily 9:00–17:00
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Castle4.6★887 reviews
Schloss Weitra
Schloss Weitra, a magnificent Renaissance castle rising above the oldest brewing town in Austria, invites visitors to explore its rich history and culture. From its origins as a medieval fortress to its transformation into a stunning Renaissance residence, the castle offers a captivating journey through time.
Mon 10:00–17:00 · Wed–Sun 10:00–17:00
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Hiking area4.5★908 reviews
Mohndorf Armschlag
Mohndorf Armschlag is a charming village in Austria's Waldviertel region dedicated to the cultivation, celebration, and culinary uses of the poppy. Visitors can explore poppy fields, learn about the plant's history, and indulge in local poppy-themed delicacies.
Wed–Sun 9:00–19:00
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Monastery4.6★831 reviews
Zwettl Abbey
Zwettl Abbey, a Cistercian monastery founded in 1138, showcases a stunning blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. Nestled in the Waldviertel region, the abbey offers a serene escape with its magnificent church, historic library, and peaceful gardens.
Daily 9:00–17:00
Burg Heidenreichstein
Burg Heidenreichstein, nestled in Lower Austria's Waldviertel region, is celebrated as Austria's largest and most beautiful water castle. Dating back to the 12th century, this imposing fortress boasts well-preserved medieval architecture, formidable defensive structures, and a rich history, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the past.
Tue–Sun 9:30–10:30, 11:00–12:00, 14:00–15:00, 15:30–16:30
Naturpark Heidenreichsteiner Moor
Discover the tranquil beauty of the Naturpark Heidenreichsteiner Moor, a protected raised bog landscape shaped over 10,000 years. Explore diverse habitats, rare flora and fauna, and learn about the region's history of peat extraction. Enjoy accessible trails, a nature playground, and guided hikes in this unique Austrian natural treasure.
Tue–Sat 11:00–19:00 · Sun 14:00–19:00
Renaissanceschloss Greillenstein
Renaissanceschloss Greillenstein, located in Röhrenbach, Lower Austria, is a remarkably preserved castle offering a glimpse into the lives of Austrian nobility. Originally a fortified castle dating back to 1313, it was transformed in the 16th century into a Renaissance castle by the Kuefstein family. Today, visitors can explore its 60 rooms filled with original Renaissance and Baroque furnishings.
SONNENWELT Großschönau
SONNENWELT Großschönau is an interactive museum in Lower Austria that explores the history of energy and its impact on human civilization. Through engaging exhibits and hands-on activities, visitors of all ages can learn about sustainability, renewable energy, and the importance of responsible resource management.
Tue–Sun 10:00–16:00
Burgruine Dobra
Explore the captivating ruins of Burgruine Dobra, a medieval castle dating back to the 12th century, situated on a peninsula in the Dobra reservoir. Discover its rich history, panoramic views, and the unique blend of ancient ruins and modern event spaces.
Burg Ottenstein
Burg Ottenstein, a captivating castle in Lower Austria, offers a blend of history, stunning architecture, and scenic beauty. Housing a hotel and restaurant, it provides an immersive experience into Austria's rich heritage, making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking a unique getaway.
Hundertwasser's Fountain
The Hundertwasser Fountain in Zwettl, Austria, is a vibrant and unique work of art designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Located in the heart of the city on Hauptplatz, the main square, this colorful fountain features playful shapes, mosaic tiles, and lush greenery, embodying Hundertwasser's vision of harmony between art, architecture, and nature.
Open 24 hours
Lichtenfels Castle
Explore the evocative ruins of Lichtenfels Castle, a medieval fortress dating back to the 12th century, set against the serene backdrop of the Ottenstein reservoir in Lower Austria. Once a stronghold of the Rauheneck family, the castle's remains offer a blend of history, art, and natural beauty.
Kunstmuseum Waldviertel
The Kunstmuseum Waldviertel in Schrems, Austria, is more than just a museum; it's a vibrant fusion of architecture, nature, and art spanning 12,000 square meters. Founded by artists Heide and Makis Warlamis, the museum showcases contemporary art in a stunning setting, complete with a sculpture park and spaces for creative workshops.
Daily 10:00–18:00
Naturpark Nordwald
Escape to Naturpark Nordwald, a sprawling nature preserve on the western edge of the Waldviertel highlands. Its landscape of dense coniferous forests, open meadows, and moorlands evokes the feel of Scandinavia. Explore hiking trails, spot local wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views from the Schwarzenberg observation tower.
Gut Ottenstein - Bio Landgut
Gut Ottenstein, nestled in Lower Austria's Waldviertel region, is a unique blend of organic farm and historical castle centered around Schloss Waldreichs. Visitors can immerse themselves in natural beauty, recreational activities, and the region's rich heritage.
Ruine Schauenstein
Ruine Schauenstein, a majestic castle ruin near Pölla in Lower Austria, offers a glimpse into the region's rich medieval history. Built in the 11th and 12th centuries, it served as a strategic defense against Bohemian invasions. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved foundations and enjoy stunning views of the Kamp Valley.
Open 24 hours
Steinpyramide
The Steinpyramide (stone pyramid) near Ober Neustift is a unique stepped structure in the Waldviertel region of Lower Austria. Its purpose and origins remain a mystery, sparking various theories from ancient cult site to medieval signal tower.
Waldbad Rappottenstein
Waldbad Rappottenstein is a charming swimming lake nestled in the Waldviertel region of Austria. Surrounded by lush forests, this man-made lake offers a refreshing escape with excellent water quality, a sandy beach, and family-friendly amenities.
Daily 10:00–24:00
Schloss Allentsteig
Schloss Allentsteig, located in the Waldviertel region of Lower Austria, began as a wooden fortress around 1100 built by the Kuenringer family. Rebuilt in stone after 1150, it transformed into a Renaissance Schloss between 1544 and 1570. Today, it serves as a military command center, offering visitors a glimpse into Austria's rich history.
Klauskapelle
The Klauskapelle, nestled in Harruck near Groß Gerungs, Lower Austria, is a captivating blend of history and local legend. Originally a 'Lusthaus,' or pleasure house, it was transformed into a chapel in 1948, dedicated to Saint Bruder Klaus. Ring the bell three times, and legend says your wish will be granted.
Dorfmuseum Roiten
The Dorfmuseum Roiten, nestled in the Lower Austrian village of Roiten, offers a charming glimpse into rural life with its collection of ethnographic artifacts and a building partially designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser. It's a celebration of local heritage and art.
Waldviertler Erdäpfelwelt
The Waldviertler Erdäpfelwelt in Schweiggers is more than just a museum; it's a celebration of the potato, or 'Erdäpfel' as it's known in Austria. This engaging and informative attraction delves into the history, cultivation, and cultural significance of this humble tuber, which has become a cornerstone of the Waldviertel region's identity.
Freilichtmuseum Künstlergarten Wietzen
The Freilichtmuseum Künstlergarten Wietzen is a captivating open-air museum in Wietzen, Lower Austria, celebrating the artistic legacy of Alfred Kurz. Visitors can immerse themselves in a world where art and nature intertwine, creating a serene and thought-provoking experience with stone sculptures depicting human figures, animals, and abstract compositions.
Daily 9:00–18:00
Dürnsteiner Kanzel
The Dürnsteiner Kanzel is a scenic overlook in the Wachau Valley, offering panoramic views of the Danube River, terraced vineyards, and Dürnstein Abbey's iconic blue-and-white tower. A hike to the Kanzel provides an immersive experience in the natural beauty and history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Open 24 hours
Franz-Geyer-Gedenkstätte
The Franz Geyer Memorial Site is a unique rock formation honoring Franz Geyer, a local composer and educator who celebrated the Waldviertel region through his music. The site features three mushroom-shaped granite rocks, sculpted by centuries of wind and weather, offering a tranquil retreat into nature and local history.
Open 24 hours
Meloner Au
Meloner Au, near Altmelon, Austria, is a protected high moor since 1992, showcasing diverse moor types unmatched in the region. Open for hiking from June 20th to November 30th, it offers a tranquil escape into a rare ecosystem with unique flora and fauna.
Open 24 hours
Erstes österreichisches Museum für Alltagsgeschichte
The First Austrian Museum of Everyday Life in Neupölla offers a fascinating look into the daily lives and social changes of rural populations in the Waldviertel region from the 17th to the 20th centuries. Housed in a former cultural center, the museum showcases nearly 1,000 objects across six rooms, providing insight into the history and culture of the area.
Sun 14:00–17:00
Schremser Gleggmire Hochmoor Nature Park
Explore the Schremser Gleggmire Hochmoor Nature Park, Lower Austria's largest bog, a landscape shaped by the ice age and peat extraction. Discover rare plants and animals on scenic trails, and ascend the Himmelsleiter for panoramic views.
Vaterunserstein
The Vaterunserstein, or Our Father Stone, is a unique monument nestled in the forests near Kottinghörmanns, Austria, featuring the Lord's Prayer carved into a large granite boulder in 1960. It offers a serene and contemplative experience for visitors exploring the Waldviertel region.
Waldviertler Geisterwerkstatt
Step into the mystical heart of the Waldviertel region at the Waldviertler Geisterwerkstatt (Ghost Workshop) in Sankt Leonhard am Hornerwald. Explore the area's folklore, legends, and ghostly tales through interactive exhibits in an old farmhouse, creating an authentic and spine-tingling experience.
NeuMühle
NeuMühle, nestled in the Austrian countryside near 3910, offers a tranquil escape. This tourist attraction, with a rating of 4.8, provides a glimpse into the region's charm and natural beauty. While its history remains somewhat obscure, its peaceful setting and positive reviews suggest a worthwhile visit for those seeking serenity.
Kneippanlage Gabrielental
The Kneippanlage Gabrielental, near Weitra, Austria, offers a refreshing experience rooted in Kneipp hydrotherapy. Visitors can enjoy arm basins filled with cool Lainsitz river water, a barefoot park with diverse natural surfaces, and scenic hiking trails in the Gabrielental valley.
Soldatenfriedhof Allentsteig
The Soldatenfriedhof Allentsteig, near the town of Allentsteig in Lower Austria, is a military cemetery serving as the final resting place for 3,911 soldiers, primarily German, who died during World War II. Inaugurated in 1981, the cemetery provides a tranquil space for reflection on the human cost of conflict.
Waldviertler Heimatmuseum Altes Eishaus
Discover the Waldviertel region's captivating history and traditions at the Heimatmuseum Altes Eishaus in Gföhl. Housed in a unique, historic ice storage building, the museum offers a glimpse into the lives of the local population and the gentry in times long past.
Riesenfichte
The Riesenfichte, or Giant Spruce, is a colossal tree near Wörnharts, Lower Austria. Towering over the surrounding forest, this ancient spruce is estimated to be several hundred years old and offers a tranquil escape into nature.
Granitlandschaft Burgleiten
Granitlandschaft Burgleiten, near Rappottenstein, Austria, showcases granite formations sculpted over millennia. This natural sculpture park offers hiking trails through bizarre rock formations, providing a blend of outdoor adventure and serene contemplation in the Waldviertel region.
Kesselbodenturm
The Kesselbodenturm is a striking circular tower that stands as a landmark in Zwettl, embodying the town's medieval history. Constructed in the 14th century as part of Zwettl's defenses, it offers visitors a tangible connection to the past.
Szene Waldviertel
Szene Waldviertel is a vibrant festival held in Horn, Austria, showcasing local music, art, and cuisine. It's a lively gathering that embodies the community spirit and rich heritage of the Waldviertel region.
Passauerturm
The Passauerturm is a semi-circular medieval defense tower integrated into the city walls of Zwettl, Austria. Its name is possibly linked to Zwettl's historical ties to the Diocese of Passau. Once used as a prison, the tower now stands as a unique historical landmark.
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