Top 20 Lakes in the Burgenland

Burgenland's lakes offer diverse natural features. Lake Neusiedl, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is Central Europe's largest steppe lake, known for its exceptionally shallow waters and vast reed belts, which are the second-largest continuous reed area in Europe. The region also features saline depressions and supports a rich variety of flora and fauna. Another unique spot is Zicksee, a small steppe lake whose water contains minerals like sodium, believed to have healing properties.

Yes, the Neusiedler See-Seewinkel National Park, surrounding Lake Neusiedl, is a prime location for birdwatching. It serves as an important resting place for migratory birds and is home to approximately 340 bird species, including rare ones like the sea eagle and purple heron. Guided birdwatching safaris are available in the area.

The lakes in Burgenland offer various water sports. Lake Neusiedl is particularly popular for surfing, kitesurfing, and sailing due to its constant winds. Stand-up paddling (SUP) and pedal boating are also widely enjoyed. For swimming, lakes like Badesee Rechnitz, Badesee Rauchwart, and Sonnensee Ritzing provide excellent facilities.

Absolutely. Several lakes in Burgenland are ideal for families. Badesee Rechnitz offers a water slide, a diving tower, pedal boats, a children's playground, and a 'Robinson island.' Badesee Rauchwart features a children's zone in the lake, a playground, and modern pedal boats. Sonnensee Ritzing also provides generous sunbathing lawns, water slides, a diving board, and a sand beach, making it a popular choice for families.

The region around Lake Neusiedl is excellent for cycling, featuring a well-developed network of bike paths, including the famous Neusiedler See cycle path that circles the entire lake. Ferries like the Illmitz–Mörbisch Ferry or Drescher Line Ferry are available to shorten routes across the lake. You can also explore the Podersdorf-Karmazik Nature Zone Cycle Path.

Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. Badesee Rechnitz serves as an ideal starting point for hiking trails through the Naturpark Geschriebenstein. For more options, you can explore various easy hikes in the Burgenland, including the Purbach Reed Nature Trail near the Neusiedler See region.

The best time to visit the lakes in Burgenland largely depends on your preferred activities. For water sports, swimming, and cycling, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are ideal. Badesee Rauchwart, for example, boasts an average water temperature of 24°C, contributing to a long bathing season. Birdwatching is excellent during migratory periods in spring and autumn. In winter, some frozen lakes, like Badesee Rechnitz, become popular for ice skating.

Yes, the region around Lake Neusiedl is rich in culture. The area is renowned for its excellent wines, with numerous vineyards and lakeside restaurants. Towns like Rust and Mörbisch am See offer historical architecture and cultural events such as the Seefestspiele. The Podersdorf Lighthouse is a popular man-made landmark and photo opportunity, especially at sunset.

Yes, Neufelder See is specifically known for its diving facilities, offering a different kind of aquatic experience compared to the shallower steppe lakes.

Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse range of activities and the natural beauty. Many enjoy the well-developed bike paths around Lake Neusiedl, the family-friendly amenities at bathing lakes like Badesee Rechnitz, and the unique atmosphere of the steppe lakes. The opportunity to relax by the water, enjoy local wines, and spot wildlife are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, if you're interested in mountain biking, there are trails available in the region. You can find various MTB trails in the Burgenland, including the Rechnitz Trail and the Esterhazy Trail in the Geschriebenstein Nature Park, which are close to some of the bathing lakes.

Beyond the larger, more popular lakes, Burgenland offers several other pleasant bathing options. These include Königsdorf Natural Swimming Lake, the Natural Swimming Lakes in Kobersdorf and Markt St. Martin, Badesee Apetlon in Northern Burgenland, Römersee near Bad Sauerbrunn, Puszta Lake Andau, Natural Lagoon St. Margarethen, and Bathing lake Burg in Southern Burgenland.