The best walks and hikes around Donau-Oder-Kanal
4.5
(2690)
16,419
hikers
540
hikes
Hiking around Donau-Oder-Kanal offers access to the diverse floodplain landscapes of the Donau-Auen National Park, a significant natural area along the Danube River. The region is characterized by its water-rich environment, including numerous old watercourses and wetlands, providing a unique habitat for wildlife. Trails are generally flat, with minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for various fitness levels. The area provides a blend of natural beauty and accessible paths for outdoor exploration.
Best hiking trails around Donau-Oder-Kanal
- The most popular…
Last updated: October 11, 2026
4.4
(52)
193
hikers
11.9km
03:00
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(66)
212
hikers
8.02km
02:03
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(21)
95
hikers
10.4km
02:37
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
35
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The weir 2 is a weir structure in the New Danube in the south of Vienna. It provides a connection to the Danube Island for pedestrians and cyclists. It was completed in 1988. Like the other two weir structures of the New Danube, weir 2 serves to regulate the water level of the New Danube. It consists of five weir fields with a clear width of 30.6 meters. It is a rigid system, meaning it is normally not moved, unlike the weirs at power plants. The weir closures are hydraulically operated pressure segments with a fixed overflow hood. At weir 2, two of the closures also have an additional stop log. Since it can also happen at this weir that the water flows through in the opposite direction, the segments are also designed for tensile stress. As the first test drillings for this structure revealed that the marl only occurs at a depth of 40 meters and is overlaid by very permeable sands, the site had to be relocated 470 meters from the planned location first. A necessary remediation of contaminated sites in the Lobau then forced a further shift of 50 meters.
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A great recreational area for all Viennese and nature lovers, where different nature observations are possible in every season.
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In the years 1785/86[2], the "chamber engineer" Johann Sigismund Hubert, on the orders of Emperor Joseph II, built a protective dam in the area from Langenzersdorf to Floridsdorf, which was intended to prevent floodwaters from entering the Marchfeld. Some Danube arms, such as the Schwarze Lacke, were separated from the river. But already at the next major flood in November 1787, the dam could not withstand the masses of water. The name Hubertusdamm is a reminder of engineer Hubert.[2]
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To commemorate the events of the Pentecost days in 1809 for later generations, memorial stones were erected at the then important points of the French advance in the Lobau - popularly known as "Napoleon Stones". Over the years, overgrown by the floodplain forest, some of the total of 6 small obelisks were hardly to be found anymore. In the course of the realization of the "Donauauen" National Park, they were renovated. So you can now comfortably hike to these memorial sites on newly created paths.
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The bridge offers a great opportunity to cross the Danube's relief channel.
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Napoleon - Road From the bridgehead on the main arm of the Danube, a road led to this point, where the French army began its crossing into the Marchland on May 20, 1809...
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The lighthouse was part of the iconic backdrop of the Bregenz Festival stage in the 1989 and 1990 seasons. It was part of the set design for Richard Wagner's 'The Flying Dutchman', directed by David Pountney. During the opera performances, Senta, a character in the opera, threw herself from the lighthouse into Lake Constance.
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Above all, to supply Styria with natural gas, OMV needed a crossing of the Danube for a pipe with a diameter of 42 centimeters. Since, due to the large span, a conventional truss bridge for pipes would have been too heavy, Franz Masanz from Waagner-Biro AG designed a novel suspension bridge system, which was also patented.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Donau-Oder-Kanal?
There are over 550 hiking trails in the Donau-Oder-Kanal region. This includes a wide variety of routes, with more than 380 easy trails, 160 moderate trails, and a few more challenging options, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.
What is the typical terrain like for hiking in the Donau-Oder-Kanal region?
The hiking terrain around Donau-Oder-Kanal is primarily characterized by the diverse floodplain landscapes of the Donau-Auen National Park. Trails are generally flat with minimal elevation gain, winding through extensive floodplain forests, tranquil watercourses, and open riverine areas. It's a water-rich environment, offering lush scenery and unique habitats.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in the Donau-Oder-Kanal area?
The Donau-Oder-Kanal region, particularly the Donau-Auen National Park, offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural colors. Summer is also popular, though some areas might be warmer. Winter hikes are possible, offering a different, serene perspective of the floodplain landscape.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, the Donau-Oder-Kanal region is excellent for beginners and casual walkers. Over 380 of the available routes are classified as easy, featuring minimal elevation gain and well-maintained paths. An example of an easy route is the Hafen Wien Lobau Lighthouse – Southern tip of the Danube Island loop from Lobau, which is just over 4 km long.
Are the hiking trails around Donau-Oder-Kanal suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Many trails in the Donau-Oder-Kanal region are ideal for families. The generally flat terrain and numerous easy routes make them manageable for children. The diverse natural environment of the Donau-Auen National Park provides opportunities for wildlife observation and exploration, making for an engaging family outing.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Yes, many hiking trails in the Donau-Oder-Kanal region are dog-friendly. However, within the Donau-Auen National Park, it's important to keep dogs on a leash to protect the sensitive wildlife and natural habitats. Always check local regulations for specific areas you plan to visit.
Are there circular hiking routes available?
Yes, there are many circular hiking routes in the Donau-Oder-Kanal area. These loops allow you to start and end at the same point, offering convenient exploration. Popular examples include the Napoleon Rundweg – Nationalpark Donau-Auen and the Eßlinger Furt – Egerer Brückl (Egerer Bridge) loop from Lobau.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see while hiking?
While hiking, you can explore the extensive wetlands and floodplain forests of the Danube-Auen National Park, one of Central Europe's last intact floodplain landscapes. You might also encounter scenic viewpoints like the Bench with a view of the Donau-Oder Canal, offering tranquil riverine vistas.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Donau-Oder-Kanal hiking trails?
The Donau-Oder-Kanal hiking trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil watercourses, the beauty of the floodplain forests, and the accessibility of the paths, making it a popular choice for nature lovers seeking peaceful outdoor experiences.
What is the Donau-Oder-Kanal, and is it completed?
The Donau-Oder-Kanal was an ambitious historical project intended to connect the Danube and Oder rivers. While the canal itself was largely uncompleted, the surrounding region, particularly the Donau-Auen National Park and the broader Danube area in Austria, is a significant natural landscape. The name now primarily refers to the area's connection to the Danube River and its associated ecosystems.
Can I reach the hiking trails using public transport?
Yes, many areas within the Donau-Oder-Kanal region, especially those closer to Vienna and the Donau-Auen National Park, are accessible by public transport. Specific routes and starting points may vary, so it's advisable to check local public transport schedules and connections to your chosen trailhead.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the hiking routes?
Beyond the natural beauty, the broader Danube region offers cultural insights. The Donaukanal in Vienna, for instance, provides green spaces and features architectural highlights and street art closer to the city center. Historical sites, castles, palaces, and monasteries can also be found along sections of the Danube, adding a cultural dimension to your hiking trips.
Most popular routes around Donau-Oder-Kanal
Most popular attractions around Donau-Oder-Kanal
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