Attractions and Places To See around Schwarzenau - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Schwarzenau include historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features within the Waldviertel region of Lower Austria. The area is characterized by its historical roots, dating back to the 12th century, and its scenic landscape traversed by the Deutsche Thaya river. Visitors can explore a mix of ancient castles, historic town centers, and elevated natural points.
Best attractions and places to see around Schwarzenau
- The most popular attractions is Predigtstuhl Summit (718 m), a summit that is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists. At 718 meters, it is the highest point in the Waidhofen an der Thaya district.
- Another must-see spot is Waidhofen an der Thaya Town Hall, a historical site. This landmark building, originating around 1520, features a stepped gable and turrets in the late Renaissance style.
- Visitors also love Waldrapp aviary in Waidhofen an der Thaya, the largest bald ibis aviary in the world. It offers an exhibition room and opportunities for feeding and photography with the birds.
- Schwarzenau is known for its historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features. The region offers a variety of castles, churches, museums, and natural summits to see and explore.
- The attractions around Schwarzenau are appreciated by the komoot community, with 27 upvotes and 57 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Predigtstuhl Summit (718 m)
Highlight • Summit
In the 1930s there was a lookout tower, of which there are only a few anchorage holes. The Aussichsturm was popularly called "pyramid".
I can still remember when I was a child and my father said "Gemma on Piramidn" everyone knew that the sermon chair was meant. I doubt whether anyone still associates the term "pyramid" with the sermon chair today.
Small excursions into the forest around the Predigtstuhl are definitely worth it. There are lots of big and small festivals to discover.
A sign saying "View of the Dukovany nuclear power plant" is still available, but the view of the nuclear power plant should have been blocked by the tall trees for a few years. I tried to find the view a few times last year, but failed (Dukovany is only 65 km from Waidhofen an der Thaya).
In this sense: "Gemma on Piramidn!"
Supplement May 2020:
I am afraid that the sermon chair will no longer look the way it looks now.
A few years ago, we could still use signatures to prevent it being cleared to make room for wind turbines.
Now the bark beetles are there - and no signature will help. Deforestation is already beginning.
I hope that at least the giant beeches will survive - the beeches that were huge 60 years ago when I was little!
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Waidhofen an der Thaya Town Hall
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Waldrapp aviary in Waidhofen an der Thaya
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Bandlkramerlandl Historic Textile Region
Highlight • Historical Site
aeiou.at/aeiou.encyclop.b/b090042.htm
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Waidhofen an der Thaya Parish Church
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Schwarzenau.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Europe's largest Waldrapp aviary in Waidhofen an der Thaya
0
0
Take a break at the main square in Waidhofen/Thaya. Enjoy a short stroll along the southern promenade or treat yourself to an ice cream or coffee at one of the pastry shops in Böhmgasse or Niederleutnerstraße.
0
0
The largest Waldrapp aviary in the world is located in Waidhofen an der Thaya. Feeding the Waldrapp is a unique experience. The endangered ibis species has found a home in Waidhofen. The Waldrapp project is being followed worldwide and has received great international recognition from renowned experts. Opening times for tours and feedings: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Fri 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Sat, Sun and public holidays after
0
0
The town hall with its stepped gables is the town's landmark. It was built around 1520. Changing exhibitions are held in the historic building. It's definitely worth a visit!
1
0
Beautiful main square with wonderful historic houses and sights
0
0
At the highest point in the city, 510 m above sea level, the baroque parish church towers over the settlement. Until the beginning of the 18th century, a Gothic church stood on this site. Construction began in 1713. First, the 54 m high church tower was built, then the current nave was built over the old Gothic parish church. After the outer walls were completed, the old church was torn down. A detailed description of the church and the art treasures can be found at the rear entrance of the church. The cemetery was located all around the church until 1719. There are still some old gravestones on the city wall west of the parish church. https://www.waidhofen-thaya.at/Stadtpfarrkirche
0
0
beautiful cycling tour - driven with pressure from it challenging
0
0
Here you can observe Waldrapp birds right on the cycle route. You can even go into the cage through a sliding door. A Waldrapp bird looks very special!
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Schwarzenau?
Schwarzenau is rich in history. You can visit the magnificent Schloss Schwarzenau, a Renaissance water castle with roots dating back to the 12th century, featuring a notable two-story chapel and an idyllic park. Other historical sites include the 15th-century Old Town Hall, which now houses a local history museum, and the Medieval Market Square with its historic half-timbered houses. The ruins of Schwarzenau Abbey also offer insight into medieval monastic life.
Are there any natural viewpoints or summits to visit near Schwarzenau?
Yes, the Predigtstuhl Summit (718 m) is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists. It is the highest point in the Waidhofen an der Thaya district and offers opportunities for small excursions into the surrounding forest. While the view of the nuclear power plant mentioned on older signs might be obscured by trees now, it remains a significant natural landmark.
What cultural sites, particularly churches, are worth seeing in the region?
The region boasts several historical churches. Notable examples include the early 15th-century St. Michaelskirche with its distinctive spire, the ornate 18th-century Barockkirche, and the Peter and Paul Church, which uniquely combines Gothic and Baroque elements. You can also find the 14th-century St. Peter's Church, exhibiting Romanesque architecture, and the St. Laurentius Church, with a history dating back to 1135.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Schwarzenau?
Absolutely. The Waldrapp aviary in Waidhofen an der Thaya is a great family-friendly option, being the largest bald ibis aviary in the world. It offers an exhibition room and opportunities for feeding and photography with the birds. Additionally, some hiking trails, like the path from the Fuchsenhöhlen to the Wolfsgrube, are suitable for families.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Schwarzenau?
The area around Schwarzenau is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, gravel biking, and cycling. For hiking, explore trails like the Meierhofkapelle Schwarzenau – Waldbad Naturbad Zwettl loop. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the Viewpoint of Raabs Castle – Thaya Railway Bridge loop. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Schwarzenau, Gravel biking around Schwarzenau, and Cycling around Schwarzenau guides.
Where can I learn about the industrial history of Schwarzenau?
To delve into Schwarzenau's industrial past, you can visit the Old Watermill, which offers a glimpse into historical milling practices. Additionally, the Blacksmith Shop Museum, housed in a traditional building, showcases tools and equipment related to the village's blacksmithing heritage.
Are there any castle ruins to explore in the vicinity?
Yes, just outside the town, you can explore the Waldthurn Castle Ruins and Rossfeld Castle Ruins. These sites offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and provide a historical perspective on the region's past.
What is the Bandlkramerlandl Historic Textile Region?
The Bandlkramerlandl Historic Textile Region refers to the historical landscape around Waidhofen an der Thaya and Groß-Siegharts. Since the 18th century, it was known for home-industrial weaving of ribbons. This area highlights the region's significant textile heritage and the unique publishing system that supported it before industrialization.
What is the significance of the Memorial stone in the Ulrichsschlager Forest?
The Memorial stone in the Ulrichsschlager Forest marks the site of the oldest church in a wide circle, the parish church Ulrich-Slag, which stood there in 1153. It commemorates a significant religious site that was later deserted. The area, known as 'Frauenstaffel,' also refers to the veneration of Mary.
What is the Waidhofen an der Thaya Town Hall known for?
The Waidhofen an der Thaya Town Hall is a historic landmark originating around 1520. It features a distinctive stepped gable and turrets in the late Renaissance style. It serves as the seat of the city's administration and is known for its carillon chimes, which can be heard daily at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Are there any specific hiking trails suitable for families in Schwarzenau?
Yes, Schwarzenau offers various hiking trails, and a path from the Fuchsenhöhlen to the Wolfsgrube is specifically mentioned as suitable for families. These trails provide an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the region together.
What is the Deutsche Thaya River and its role in the region?
The Deutsche Thaya River traverses the area around Schwarzenau, significantly contributing to the scenic landscape. It forms part of the natural beauty that visitors can enjoy while exploring the region's hiking and cycling routes.
Most popular routes around Schwarzenau
Most popular attractions around Schwarzenau
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
