Top 15 Natural Monuments around Petzenkirchen
Natural monuments around Petzenkirchen offer diverse outdoor experiences in Lower Austria. The region features a landscape shaped by rivers and forests, providing opportunities for exploration. Visitors can discover unique geological formations and ancient trees that define the local natural heritage. These sites provide a factual glimpse into the area's natural features.
Best natural monuments around Petzenkirchen
- The most popular natural monuments is Erlauf Gorge, a gorge that features scenic hiking opportunities and bathing areas. The gorge offers a lower path that is easy to navigate and includes 5 exit points.
- Another must-see spot is Rogelstein, a natural monument consisting of large boulders. These boulders are known to wobble slightly, and the site is a resting place on the "Stein Runde" hiking trail.
- Visitors also love Persenbeug Market Linden Natural Monument, an impressive, over 600-year-old linden tree. This tree was declared a natural monument in 1989 and stands in the middle of the market place.
- Petzenkirchen is known for gorges, ancient trees, and unique rock formations. The area offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore.
- The natural monuments around Petzenkirchen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and over 270 photos shared.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Erlauf Gorge
Highlight • Gorge
The lower path is a bit difficult to walk at the moment, lots of driftwood etc.
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Erlauf Gorge
Highlight • Gorge
The lower path is a bit difficult to walk at the moment, lots of driftwood etc.
Translated by Google •
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Persenbeug Market Linden Natural Monument
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Schauboden Prisoner of War Cemetery
Highlight • Historical Site
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Rogelstein
Highlight • Natural Monument
These can wobble a little even with sufficient load (hence the name).
Can be ideally visited on a hike on the stone circuit (this includes the White Stone, Rogelstein, Great Stone, and the ruins of Zelking).
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Tips from the Community
While hiking in the rugged Erlauf Gorge, it's hard to imagine that you're in the heart of the market town of Purgstall. A unique natural spectacle and always worth a visit!
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Paid parking, playground and information boards available.
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The small alleys ("Hauptstraße") around the town hall square already have a "Wachau flair" 😉
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We caught a dream day, few hikers, sun and blue sky accompanied us through the gorge - definitely take the lower path, it is easy to walk and has 5 exit points.
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The people of Purgstall hold a memorial service every year on the Sunday after All Souls’ Day.
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The Fischersteig in the Erlaufschlucht is a great experience all year round. Since the heavy rain in mid-September 2024, the Fischersteig has been closed indefinitely. There is also a beautiful hiking trail above it, of course not as spectacular.
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At the car park at the entrance to the gorge (near the bowling alley), the municipality of Purgstall collects parking fees using a machine, which is not a small amount for a few hours. € 2.00 per hour € 6.50 per day
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most notable natural monuments to visit around Petzenkirchen?
The region around Petzenkirchen offers several unique natural monuments. The Erlauf Gorge is a prominent example, known for its scenic hiking opportunities and bathing areas. Another interesting site is Rogelstein, featuring large boulders that are said to wobble slightly. You can also visit the Persenbeug Market Linden Natural Monument, an impressive, over 600-year-old linden tree.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Petzenkirchen?
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. The lower path of the Erlauf Gorge is generally easy to navigate and offers five exit points, making it flexible for families with children. The Persenbeug Market Linden Natural Monument, located in the middle of a market square, is also easily accessible and family-friendly.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see at the Erlauf Gorge?
The Erlauf Gorge is an impressive natural gorge featuring breathtaking views of a picturesque landscape along the clear, turquoise waters of the Erlauf river. You'll pass through dense forests and alongside rocky cliffs, experiencing diverse flora and fauna. It's a popular spot for both relaxation and active exploration, with opportunities for swimming in its bathing areas.
What outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments?
The area around Petzenkirchen offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, including trails that lead through the Erlauf Gorge. There are also options for cycling and gravel biking in the wider region, allowing you to explore the natural beauty on two wheels.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Petzenkirchen?
Visitors often praise the Erlauf Gorge for its beauty when experienced on a clear day with few hikers. While specific seasonal closures are not broadly noted for all monuments, it's always advisable to check local conditions, especially after heavy rain, as paths like the Fischersteig in the Erlaufschlucht have been closed due to weather impacts.
Are there any historical sites near the natural monuments?
Yes, while focusing on natural monuments, the region also has historical significance. For instance, the Schauboden Prisoner of War Cemetery is a historical site near the Erlauf, offering a glimpse into the area's past with a 'Path of Peace' leading through the former camp area.
What makes Rogelstein a unique natural monument?
The Rogelstein is unique for its large boulders that are known to wobble slightly, giving it its name. It serves as a popular resting place for hikers on the 'Stein Runde' trail, offering a distinctive geological feature to observe.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments?
While specific dog rules can vary, many natural areas in Lower Austria are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. For places like the Erlauf Gorge, it's generally possible to bring dogs, but always ensure they are well-behaved and that you clean up after them. Check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Where can I find parking when visiting the Erlauf Gorge?
Parking options are available near the Erlauf Gorge, particularly in the vicinity of Purgstall an der Erlauf, which serves as a common starting point for exploring the gorge. Specific parking areas are usually signposted.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Petzenkirchen?
Visitors frequently highlight the serene beauty and the opportunity for active exploration. The Erlauf Gorge is particularly praised for its stunning scenery, especially on clear days, and the refreshing bathing areas. The unique geological formations like the wobbling boulders of Rogelstein and the ancient Persenbeug Market Linden also receive appreciation for their distinct character.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near the natural monuments?
Yes, for example, right next to the Persenbeug Market Linden Natural Monument, you'll find the Café zur Linde, which is very convenient. In the larger towns like Petzenkirchen and Purgstall an der Erlauf, you will find various cafes, pubs, and restaurants to refresh yourself after your explorations.
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