Windmühle Retz: A Historic Mill with a View

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Discover Austria's only operational windmill in Retz, offering historical insights and panoramic views of the Weinviertel region.

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Windmühle Retz

The Windmühle Retz, or Retz Windmill, is a landmark and the only operational corn mill in Austria powered by wind. Perched atop the Kalvarienberg, it offers scenic views of the surrounding Weinviertel region and provides insight into traditional milling practices.

A brief summary to Windmühle Retz

Kalvarienberg 1, Retz, 2070, AT
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Monday 11 am-5 pm
Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
Thursday 11 am-5 pm
Friday 11 am-5 pm
Saturday 11 am-5 pm
Sunday 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

Visit between April and October for the best chance to see the windmill in operation and take a guided tour.
Check the weather forecast and visit on a windy day to see the sails turning.
Combine your visit with a tour of the Retzer Erlebniskeller, the largest wine cellar in Central Europe, for a comprehensive Retz experience.
Enjoy a meal or snack at the Windmühlheuriger Bergmann, a traditional Austrian tavern located near the windmill.

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Getting There

Walking

From Retz Hauptplatz (main square), walk northwest along Znaimer Straße, passing through the Znaimer Tor (Znaim Gate). Turn left onto Windmühlgasse, then right after approximately 400m. The windmill is approximately a 15-minute walk from the town center. The path is uphill.
Public Transport

From the Retz train station, walk straight ahead on Bahnhofstraße towards the old town. At the roundabout, cross through the small Stadtpark. Continue to Hauptplatz and follow the walking directions. The total walking time from the train station is approximately 20 minutes. A single train ticket from Vienna to Retz costs approximately €16 with the Einfach-Raus Ticket.
Driving

From the center of Retz, follow signs for Kalvarienberg. The windmill is located at Kalvarienberg 1. Free parking for buses is available near the windmill. Parking availability may be limited during peak season. Driving time from the town center is approximately 5 minutes.

Discover more about Windmühle Retz

The Retz Windmühle is more than just a picturesque landmark; it's a living piece of Austrian history. Located on the Kalvarienberg, near the old road from Retz to Hofern, this windmill overlooks the charming town of Retz and the rolling vineyards of the Weinviertel. The mill stands as a testament to the region's agricultural heritage and the ingenuity of its people. Originally, two windmills were built in close proximity. The stone windmill that stands today was constructed in 1853, though one mill dates back to 1775. Until 1924, it served as a vital part of the community, grinding grain for local farmers. After falling into disrepair, the mill was lovingly restored in the 1970s and reopened in 2010 with the help of Dutch experts. Today, it operates using only wind power, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. A guided tour is highly recommended to fully experience the mill. Visitors can witness the inner workings of the mill, learn about its history and construction, and even see the sails turning when the wind is right. The experience is particularly engaging for children, who can operate small millstones and grind grain themselves. Additionally, a small shop offers flour and regional products, perfect for souvenirs. For a hands-on experience, visitors can participate in bread-making in the adjacent bakery.