Discover the Thayatal National Park: A natural jewel in the heart of Austria

Discover the Thayatal National Park: A natural jewel in the heart of Austria

In the heart of Lower Austria, the Thayatal National Park extends, a true natural jewel that is often referred to as the green canyon of Austria. Here the Thaya meanders through the picturesque landscape, while dug impressive heights of up to 150 meters into the ground. This region, which forms the border between Lower Austria and the Czech Republic for 23.3 kilometers, is not only a retreat for untouched nature, but also a habitat for a variety of rare plant and animal species.

The National Park, which is the smallest of the six national parks in Austria with an area of 13.6 square kilometers, is an important habitat in which almost half of all plant species found in Austria can be found. This is not least thanks to the varied climate, which ranges from dense beech forests in protected areas to sunny oak forests on the slopes. The residents of this unique ecosystem include otters, kingfishers, sea eagles and many other animal species. Even wild cats have found a home here.

hiking and discovering in the Thayatal

The region is ideal for hiking friends who want to experience the untouched nature. The Thayatalweg, a 11 km long hiking trail, leads along the picturesque river. A special highlight is the circulation, from which the hikers can enjoy a breathtaking view of the river loop. The path is part of the wide hiking trail 630, which runs through the entire valley at 187 kilometers.

In addition, there are numerous circular hiking trails that enable the wonderful views of the green canyon to enjoy. The Merkersdorfer circular hiking trail offers a great view and is ideal for the whole family. The Einsiedlerweg, which explores further highlights and leads over two bridges to the Czech Republic, is also a recommended option.

The best time to visit Thayatal is between June and August, when the temperatures are pleasant and nature is in full bloom. But also in spring and autumn there are many ways to admire the special flora and fauna. And if you like it adventurous, you can try out the 100 -kilometer Thayarunde, a bike tour along former railway tracks.

How to get to the Thayatal

The journey to the national park is best done via the city of Hardegg, which is the only town in the Thayatal. The nearest train station is located in Retz, where visitors have several options to achieve their destination. From big cities like Munich it is about five hours by car while the train journey can take a similarly long time.

There are only a few holiday apartments for overnight stays in Hardegg. There are motorhome parking spaces or tents near the National Park Center for camping -loving visitors. If you like it more comfortably, you will find a variety of hotels in the surrounding cities. The Althof estate in Retz, for example, not only offers a tasteful ambience, but also a wellness area with pool and sauna.

The Thayatal National Park is the ideal place for nature and hiking lovers who want to enjoy the calm and beauty of the Austrian landscape. For more details and information about hiking trails and accommodation options, interested parties can take a look at the comprehensive reporting on www.outdoor-magazin.com throw.