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Naturpark Blockheide-Eibenstein: A Geological Wonderland

4.7 (1897)

Explore Naturpark Blockheide-Eibenstein in Gmünd, Austria, with granite formations, rocking stones, and scenic views in a unique natural setting.

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.

A brief summary to Naturpark Blockheide-Eibenstein

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours of the observation tower and Schutzhaus Blockheide before your visit, as they may vary depending on the season.
  • Consider booking a guided tour in advance to learn more about the park's geology, history, and ecology.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking on the trails.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy at the giant and dwarf picnic area.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Gmünd Bahnhof (train station), take Bus 740 towards Grillenstein. Alight at the 'Grillenstein Fuchsteinweg' bus stop. From there, it's a short 200m walk to the Naturpark Blockheide-Eibenstein entrance. A single bus fare costs approximately €3-4. Note that Bus 740 operates Monday to Saturday.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Gmünd city center, a taxi or ride-share to Naturpark Blockheide-Eibenstein takes about 10-15 minutes. Expect to pay around €15-€25, depending on traffic and the specific service. Taxi services are available in Gmünd; consider pre-booking for guaranteed availability.

  • Driving

    From Gmünd, follow signs for Blockheideweg. The Naturpark is located at Blockheideweg 10. Parking is available at the Naturpark, free of charge, but spaces can be limited during peak season.

Discover more about Naturpark Blockheide-Eibenstein

Naturpark Blockheide-Eibenstein, located near Gmünd in the Waldviertel region of Lower Austria, showcases nature's power over time. This protected area spans approximately 130 hectares and features heathland, mixed forests, meadows, and granite formations.The park's geological significance lies in its granite blocks, remnants of ancient geological processes. These blocks, often bizarrely shaped, create a captivating environment. The 'Wackelsteine' are large granite boulders balanced so delicately that they can be rocked or moved.The park was established in 1964 to preserve the unique landscape. Today, it is part of the Natura 2000 network. Visitors can explore themed hiking trails, including the GRANIT-Tour, MYTHOlogie-Tour, LANDSCHAFTSkul-Tour, and MARIENKÄFERWEG.Other attractions include the Blockheide pond, the Meridian path at the 15th meridian, the Devil's stones, an observation tower with an exhibition on the birth of the Wackelsteine, a nature children's playground with a stone labyrinth, and a geological open-air museum. The 30-meter wooden observation tower offers panoramic views.

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