Lakes around Sipbachzell are characterized by the presence of the Schacherteiche, a system of four main ponds located within the municipality and extending into Kremsmünster. These ponds, including Kleine, Große, Mittlere, and Vordere Schacherteich, cover approximately 15 to 16 hectares and are fed by precipitation. The area is recognized as a significant natural habitat and a local recreation zone. It forms part of the "Untere Traun" European protected area, important for bird species and nature observation.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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We combined the medium and small Schacherteich loops (photo). Recommended. 15 km.
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The lake always looks different, very idyllic.
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The lake looks absolutely beautiful at any time of the year.
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The Schacherteiche are a great area to go for a walk and relax. Be it spring, summer, autumn or winter. If the Schacherteich are frozen over in winter, you can go curling or go ice skating.
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They are located in the Schachenwald north of the main town of the municipality near the village of Heiligenkreuz. From southwest to northeast these are the small, large, middle and front Schacherteich. They are mainly fed by precipitation and originally had a total area of about 20 hectares; due to silting up, a total water surface of about 15 to 16 ha can now be assumed
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The Schacherteiche are four large ponds in the area of the market town of Kremsmünster in the Upper Austrian district of Kirchdorf.
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The Schacherteiche, a system of four main ponds including Kleine, Große, Mittlere, and Vordere Schacherteich, are a significant natural habitat and a popular local recreation area. They are part of the "Untere Traun" European protected area and are nationally important as resting, transit, and wintering grounds for various duck species. Historically, they were created in 1555 by Kremsmünster Abbey for drainage and carp production. You can learn more about the area at Middle Schacherteich and the Schacherteiche Nature Reserve (Lower Traun).
Yes, Rutzinger Lake is a popular spot for swimming, especially during the summer months. It's known for its beautiful appearance year-round and an unusual colony of greylag geese.
Yes, the Schacherteiche and their surroundings are part of the "Untere Traun" European protected area, which is designated as a bird sanctuary of European importance. This area, including the Schacherteiche Nature Reserve (Lower Traun), offers an extraordinary natural landscape and is a vital habitat for numerous rare species, particularly birds.
The Schacherteiche are particularly important for birdwatching. They serve as significant resting, transit, and wintering grounds for various duck species such as Teal, Garganey, Gadwall, and Pochard, which have substantial populations here. The entire Lower Traun European Protected Area is rich in diverse flora and fauna.
Many of the lakes and surrounding areas are family-friendly. For instance, the Middle Schacherteich and the Schacherteiche Nature Reserve (Lower Traun) are great for walks and nature observation, offering easy terrain. Rutzinger Lake is also a popular family destination for swimming in summer.
During winter, if temperatures drop sufficiently, the large Schacherteich often freezes over, transforming into a natural ice paradise. It becomes a popular spot for ice skating, ice stock sport, and even ice hockey, attracting many visitors.
Yes, there are several cycling opportunities. For example, you can find routes like the "Schacherteich – Schacherteiche Ponds loop from Sipbachzell" which is a moderate cycling route. For more options, explore the Cycling around Sipbachzell guide.
Absolutely. The Schacherteiche Nature Reserve (Lower Traun) offers many hiking opportunities within its extraordinary natural landscape. The area around the Schacherteiche is generally great for walks and relaxation, with options to make your hike shorter or longer.
Yes, parking is available at the Großer Schacherteich, which is accessible via the Sipbachzeller Straße L1238. This makes it convenient to access the pond system for recreation and nature observation.
The lakes offer different experiences throughout the year. Summer is ideal for swimming at Rutzinger Lake and enjoying general outdoor recreation. Autumn provides beautiful scenery, while winter, if cold enough, allows for ice skating and ice stock sport on the Schacherteiche. Spring is excellent for birdwatching as the ponds are important resting and transit grounds for various duck species.
Yes, the Schacherteiche have a rich history. They were originally created in 1555 by Abbot Gregor Lechner and served as a drainage system. They are owned by Kremsmünster Abbey, which also manages the surrounding forests and traditionally leases the fishing rights, known for carp production.
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. The Schacherteiche are loved for their role as a significant bird sanctuary and a place for relaxing walks. In winter, the opportunity for ice skating and ice stock sport on the frozen ponds is a major draw. Rutzinger Lake is highly rated for its swimming opportunities in summer.


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