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Austria
Lower Austria
Waldviertel
Zwettl

Waldhausen

Top 16 Lakes around Waldhausen

Lakes around Waldhausen offer a diverse natural landscape in Upper Austria. The region features a mix of reservoirs and natural ponds, providing opportunities for recreation and nature observation. These water bodies are often surrounded by wooded areas, making them suitable for various outdoor activities. The area is characterized by its blend of engineered water features and serene natural settings.

Best lakes around Waldhausen

  • The most popular lakes is Ottenstein reservoir, a lake known for its fjord-like, branching arms and wooded shores. It is a popular recreational area, ideal for hiking and walking.
  • Another must-see spot is Ottenstein Dam, a man-made monument. Visitors can walk or cycle over a footbridge across the dam, and guided tours are available to learn about its operation.
  • Visitors also love Upper Village Pond (Oberer Ortsteich), a natural pond up to 4 meters deep with bays and a flat sandy beach. It offers amenities like a toddler water slide and a diving board, making it family-friendly.
  • Waldhausen is known for its reservoirs, natural ponds, and man-made water features. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from large recreational areas to smaller, tranquil spots.
  • The lakes around Waldhausen are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 270 upvotes and more than 100 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: July 10, 2026

Ottenstein reservoir

Highlight • Lake

Ottenstein Reservoir is a popular recreational area in the Waldviertel region of Lower Austria. It is the uppermost of the three Kamp Reservoirs in the Waldviertel region of Lower Austria and was created in the 1950s. The lake has a surface area of 4.3 square meters. The lake is known for its fjord-like, branching arms, reminiscent of Scandinavian landscapes. It is surrounded by wooded shores, ideal for hiking and walking.

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Ottenstein Dam

Highlight • Monument

22.04.2019 - For some years now you can walk or cycle over a footbridge from one end of the dam to the other end. Guided tours through the dam are a unique experience. The 90-minute guided tour of the whole complex, where you will learn how to get electricity today. Short info: dam height 69 meters, you could dammed 73 million m³ of water and generate electricity for about 20,000 households.

Information and registration: info.ottenstein@evn.at

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22.04.2019 - A breakfast on the SonnenTerrasse and then a leisurely day trip in the extensive lake landscape, highly recommended. Also a boat rental and several swimming opportunities in the cool Ottensteiner reservoir is located here. Nearby you can also visit the power plant and castle Ottenstein, as well as the gardens of the project Ökokreis.

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The natural pond, which is up to four meters deep, has bays, a flat sandy beach and an island accessible via a jetty. The lighting also makes evening laps around the water possible. When swimming, two fountains, the toddler water slide and a diving board provide variety.

The Teichstüberl opens with snacks and drinks in the summer months. A large parking lot (P1) and a public toilet and changing facilities are available.

In the adjacent leisure center (swimming, beach volleyball, playground, tennis, stick shooting) there is also a mobile parking space (mobile homes, minibuses and caravans) with electricity and disposal facilities. This is also the starting point for the well-signposted hiking trails.
  
 ottenschlag.com/index.php?id=19

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The Predigtstuhl is a peninsula in the Ottenstein reservoir. At the highest point, the view is not great and we had to flee quickly with the dogs, because there are biting big forest ants up there! Unfortunately, there is no seating at the highest point, but if you dare to the cliffs forward - there are a few steps forward - you have certainly a magnificent view!

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Tips from the Community

Christine 🚶‍♀️ 📷 🌏
June 22, 2026, Stausee Ottenstein

The Ottenstein reservoir, is the largest of the Kamp lakes and is among the richest waters in fish in Austria and at the same time among the best predatory fish waters in Europe. Its water surface is 4.3 km² and extends with its fjord-like, branched side arms, with a length of more than 14 km, up to Zwettl. The deepest point is 69 m.

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Helmert
September 26, 2024, Stausee Ottenstein

This lake is near Ottenstein and has caused a lot of misery in 2024

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We read somewhere that this dam would no longer be approved today. Nevertheless, the lake fits well into the landscape. It has a strange, branched shape!

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A casual industrial monument in the Waldviertel.

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An impressive building - with a cool approach through the forest.

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At the time of our visit, the restaurant was closed. Great location with the best view of the lake.

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Enjoy a coffee break and a view on the terrace.

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Dagmar
October 24, 2023, Ottenstein Dam

Sometimes EVN offers the opportunity to visit the interior of the power plant and the dam and there is also an informative lecture. But even if there is no guided tour, you can at least walk over the dam wall and let your gaze wander over the reservoir and the Lichtenfels ruins.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes in Waldhausen?

The lakes around Waldhausen offer diverse natural beauty. The Ottenstein reservoir is known for its fjord-like, branching arms and wooded shores. You can also find tranquil spots like the Hößgang Natural Swimming Ponds, framed by trees and reeds, and the Forest Pond, surrounded by tall trees, especially scenic in autumn. The Predigtstuhl Peninsula offers views over the Ottenstein reservoir.

Are there family-friendly lakes in the Waldhausen area?

Yes, several lakes are great for families. The Waldhausen Bathing Lake features children's slides, sandboxes, and a large sunbathing lawn. The Upper Village Pond (Oberer Ortsteich) has a toddler water slide and a diving board. The Ottenstein reservoir and Ottenstein Dam are also considered family-friendly.

What outdoor activities are available near the lakes around Waldhausen?

The area around Waldhausen's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the 'Ottenstein reservoir – Lichtenfels Castle Ruins loop' or 'Sonnentor Experience World loop'. For cyclists, there are options for gravel biking, such as the 'Poppy Farmers' Shop Armschlag' routes, and mountain biking trails like 'Schloss Waldreichs – Ottenstein Dam loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the easy hikes, gravel biking, and MTB trails guides.

Can I go swimming in the lakes near Waldhausen?

Absolutely! The Waldhausen Bathing Lake is a prominent recreational area with excellent water quality, reaching temperatures up to 26 degrees Celsius. It has a jetty with three access points and facilities. The Upper Village Pond (Oberer Ortsteich) also offers swimming with bays, a flat sandy beach, and amenities like a toddler water slide and diving board.

What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Waldhausen?

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. For swimming and water sports, the Waldhausen Bathing Lake is generally open from June to September. Autumn is particularly scenic for visiting the Forest Pond, as the foliage changes color. Generally, spring, summer, and autumn are ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the natural beauty around the lakes.

Are there any dining options or cafes near the lakes?

Yes, there are options for refreshments. The Waldhausen Bathing Lake has refreshment facilities available. Near the Ottenstein reservoir, you'll find the Ottenstein Lake Restaurant & Boat Rental, offering a great view. The Upper Village Pond (Oberer Ortsteich) also has the Teichstüberl, which opens with snacks and drinks during the summer months.

Are the lakes around Waldhausen accessible for everyone?

The Waldhausen Bathing Lake is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring non-slip mats and railings, as well as a viewing platform. This makes it a good option for visitors with varying mobility needs.

What makes the Ottenstein reservoir a popular spot?

The Ottenstein reservoir is popular for its unique fjord-like, branching arms and beautiful wooded shores, reminiscent of Scandinavian landscapes. It's a prime recreational area for hiking and walking, and visitors appreciate the scenic paths and views. It also offers opportunities for boating and swimming.

Is the Ottenstein Dam worth visiting?

The Ottenstein Dam is a notable man-made monument. Visitors can walk or cycle across a footbridge over the dam, offering unique perspectives. Guided tours are also available to learn about its operation and how it generates electricity.

What is special about the Upper Village Pond (Oberer Ortsteich)?

The Upper Village Pond (Oberer Ortsteich) is a natural pond up to four meters deep, featuring bays, a flat sandy beach, and an island accessible via a jetty. It's particularly family-friendly with a toddler water slide and a diving board, and its lighting allows for evening laps.

Are there quieter, more natural ponds to visit in the area?

Beyond the main recreational areas, Waldhausen offers more tranquil water bodies. The Nepomuk Pond provides a peaceful and silent atmosphere, watched over by St. Nepomuk. The Hößgang Natural Swimming Ponds, located along the Danube, are framed by trees and reeds and are known for their rich biodiversity, appealing to nature lovers. The Forest Pond, part of the 3-Teich-Weg, is also a serene spot surrounded by tall trees.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Waldhausen?

While specific regulations vary by location, many natural areas around the lakes are suitable for dogs, especially on hiking trails. For instance, the Predigtstuhl Peninsula in the Ottenstein reservoir is mentioned as a place where visitors have brought their dogs. It's always advisable to check local signage for specific rules regarding pets at bathing areas or protected zones.

What kind of wildlife can be observed around Waldhausen's lakes?

The Hößgang Natural Swimming Ponds are particularly noted for their rich biodiversity and provide a habitat for diverse bird species. Generally, the wooded areas and natural settings around the lakes offer opportunities to observe local flora and fauna, especially for birdwatching and enjoying the natural ecosystem.

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