The best walks and hikes in the Waldviertel
4.6
(15125)
75,533
hikers
3,489
hikes
Hiking in the Waldviertel offers diverse landscapes characterized by extensive forests, moors, and over 1,400 ponds. The region features picturesque river valleys, including the Kamp and Thaya, alongside rolling hills and open fields. Distinctive granite and gneiss rock formations are prominent, providing unique natural landmarks and panoramic viewpoints.
Best hiking trails in the Waldviertel
- The most popular hiking route is Vogelbergsteig and Dürnstein castle ruins tour, a 3.7 miles (5.9 km) difficult trail that takes 2 hours 31 minutes…
Last updated: October 23, 2026
4.9
(577)
3,283
hikers
5.89km
02:31
330m
330m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(195)
1,026
hikers
11.4km
03:20
320m
320m
Hike Wachau World Heritage Trail: Stage 3, a moderate 7.1-mile route through vineyards with Danube views, but note current closures.
4.9
(137)
725
hikers
4.20km
01:12
100m
100m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.6
(92)
423
hikers
10.3km
03:38
480m
470m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(90)
563
hikers
6.96km
02:10
260m
260m
Hike the moderate 4.3-mile Spitz and Weinberg Ried Achspoint circular trail through Wachau vineyards, offering Danube views and historical s
4.8
(92)
400
hikers
11.2km
03:18
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.7
(37)
139
hikers
13.4km
03:34
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.7
(43)
178
hikers
3.57km
00:59
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.4
(18)
78
hikers
8.13km
02:10
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(7)
47
hikers
12.8km
03:26
160m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
A nice place with many beautiful old houses, but also some less beautiful prestige buildings from winemakers.
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We're off to Spitz, right in the heart of the Wachau. This charming town is the ideal starting point for a fine hiking tour through vineyards, historic alleys, and along the beautiful Danube. Our path leads first up to the Tausendeimerberg, which is located right in the town. From there, you have a magnificent view over Spitz, the Danube, and the surrounding vineyards. Especially in autumn, when the leaves change color, the landscape is simply splendid. We continue past old wine-growing estates, the Rotes Tor, and the Gothic town hall. The late Gothic church from the 15th century and the castle of Spitz also tell of the town's long history. Anyone with a little extra time should stop by the Hinterhaus ruins; the ascent is rewarded with a wonderful panoramic view. Back in town, the Danube promenade invites you for a leisurely stroll. By the ferry to Arnsdorf, you can also marvel at the special Camera obscura by Olafur Eliasson. After the hike, there is nothing better than stopping at a cozy Heuriger. With a glass of Wachau wine and a tasty snack, the day ends in a very relaxed way in Spitz.
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very beautiful view into the Spitzergraben, to the Hinterhaus ruin and the Danube valley
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The enjoyment terrace of the Wachau lies on the left bank of the Danube between Krems and Melk. Built around the "Tausendeimerberg", the wine and the Wachau apricots grow in Spitz, right in the middle of the village. The old winegrower's village with its Renaissance and Baroque houses, the wonderful square in front of the late Gothic church from the 15th century invites you to linger. The vineyards rise in terraces around the village.
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Very interesting old church in Weißenkirchen in der Wachau
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Falkenhorst/ a summit with schnapps 😁
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in the Waldviertel region?
The Waldviertel boasts a vast network of hiking trails, with over 3,600 routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging ascents, ensuring options for every ability level.
Are there easy, family-friendly hikes in the Waldviertel?
Yes, the Waldviertel offers many easy and family-friendly routes. Over 1,800 trails are rated as easy. A great option is the Vineyards and Weißenkirchen Panorama Tour, which is 4.2 km long and takes about 1 hour 12 minutes, leading through picturesque vineyards.
What kind of unique natural features can I expect to see while hiking in the Waldviertel?
The Waldviertel is renowned for its distinctive granite and gneiss rock formations, such as the famous 'Wobbly Stone' (Wackelstein). You'll also encounter extensive forests, mystical moors, and over 1,400 ponds. Picturesque river valleys like the Kamp and Thaya are central to many routes, offering beautiful views.
Are there any circular hiking trails in the Waldviertel?
Yes, circular routes are popular in the Waldviertel. An excellent example is the Red Gate Circular Trail, a moderate 7 km loop that takes around 2 hours and 9 minutes to complete.
What are some scenic viewpoints or landmarks to look out for on the trails?
Many trails offer spectacular views. The region is known for its unique rock formations like the 'High Rock' (Hohe Stein) and 'Dürnstein Pulpit'. You can also visit historic sites such as the Dürnstein Castle Ruins, which are part of the Vogelbergsteig and Dürnstein castle ruins tour.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in the Waldviertel?
Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in the Waldviertel. However, it's always advisable to keep them on a leash, especially in nature reserves, national parks like Thayatal, or areas with livestock. Please check specific trail regulations before you go.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in the Waldviertel?
The Waldviertel is beautiful year-round, but spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer particularly pleasant hiking conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, especially around the many ponds and rivers, while winter offers opportunities for serene snowshoeing or winter walks.
Are there any long-distance hiking options in the Waldviertel?
For more ambitious hikers, the Waldviertel is integrated into longer routes. For instance, the Wachau World Heritage Trail: Stage 3 passes through the broader region, offering stunning views of vineyards and the Danube. The Eisenwurzenweg 08 also connects the northernmost and southernmost points of Austria through this area.
What do other hikers say about the trails in the Waldviertel?
The hiking trails in the Waldviertel are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 13,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's unspoiled nature, diverse landscapes, and the unique rock formations.
Are there any themed trails or cultural hikes in the region?
Yes, the Waldviertel offers unique themed hikes that combine nature with cultural insights. Examples include the SONNENTOR herb trail and the Zwettl-Roiten water wonder hiking trail. You can also explore routes like On the trail of Hundertwasser, which highlights the influence of the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser.
What kind of attractions can I find near the hiking routes?
Beyond the trails, the Waldviertel offers a variety of attractions. You can visit historical sites like the Dürnstein Old Town, explore the Ottenstein reservoir, or see the impressive Ottenstein Dam. Many trails also lead past medieval castles, historic palaces, and abbeys.
Are there any hikes that offer panoramic views?
Absolutely. The region's rolling hills and unique rock formations provide numerous opportunities for panoramic views. Consider the Nebelstein Panoramic Trail or the Seekopf panoramic tour in the Steinige Ries nature reserve for breathtaking vistas.
Most popular routes in the Waldviertel
Most popular attractions in the Waldviertel
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