The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Stausee Dobra
4.5
(901)
3,826
hikers
94
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Stausee Dobra are characterized by the reservoir's fjord-like appearance, with cliffs dropping to the shore and dense coniferous forests. The region, located in the Waldviertel of Lower Austria, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks. The landscape features serene waters, lush greenery, and varied terrain suitable for different hiking abilities.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Stausee Dobra
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Schloss Waldreichs – Waldreichs Castle loop from…
Last updated: October 30, 2026
4.7
(3)
6
hikers
23.6km
06:27
360m
350m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.6
(31)
90
hikers
11.1km
03:06
220m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.6
(11)
74
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.6
(12)
43
hikers
14.4km
04:07
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.4
(10)
59
hikers
7.65km
02:09
160m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
Experience camping idyll directly on the banks of the Dobra reservoir. The Dobra reservoir is a real jewel in the Waldviertel and is primarily known for its combination of wild nature, clean water, and magnificent landscape. It is considered the „smaller brother“ of the Ottenstein reservoir and also strongly resembles Scandinavian fjords. The branched bays and the clean water make it one of the most scenic bodies of water in Austria. Here, where the air is clearer and the nights are darker, adventurers, families, and those seeking tranquility, as well as large groups, will find a retreat in nature. Whether with a tent, van, caravan, or motorhome, freedom under the starry sky and an impressive landscape that invites you to linger await you. Away from mass tourism, you will enjoy the Waldviertel in its purest form.
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Mystical masonry, excursion destination, haven of peace, picture-book backdrop, wedding location, in short – Dobra Castle ruin is a place for lasting experiences. Just 30 minutes northwest of Krems in Waldviertel, Dobra Castle ruin lies in the middle of the water, on a peninsula in the Dobra reservoir. Almost 750 years old and 100 meters long, its walls tell many stories from distant days. Today, the keep of the former castle is an observation tower and offers an impressive view far over the Kampsee lake.
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Mystical masonry, excursion destination, haven of peace, picture-book backdrop, wedding location, in short – the Dobra castle ruins are a place for lasting experiences. Just 30 minutes northwest of Krems in the Waldviertel, the Dobra castle ruins lie in the middle of the water, on a peninsula in the Stausee Dobra. Almost 750 years old and 100 meters long, its walls tell many stories from distant days. Today, the keep of the former castle is an observation tower and offers an impressive view far over the Kampsee.
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Mystical walls, excursion destination, haven of peace, picture-book backdrop, wedding location, in short – the Dobra Castle ruins are a place for lasting experiences. Just 30 minutes northwest of Krems in the Waldviertel, the Dobra Castle ruins lie in the middle of the water, on a peninsula in the Dobra reservoir. Almost 750 years old and 100 meters long, its walls tell many stories from days gone by. Today, the keep of the former castle is an observation tower and offers an impressive view far over the Kampsee lake.
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A great castle ruin. The keep can be climbed. A small donation is requested. From the tower, a flight on a steel cable to the opposite bank of the Kampsee is even offered. Events also take place here.
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No Merlot here — the shelf stands empty, quiet, waiting for a bottle that never comes. Kein Merlot hier — das Regal bleibt leer, still, wartend auf eine Flasche, die nie kommt. Pas de Merlot ici — l'étagère reste vide, silencieuse, attendant une bouteille qui n'arrive jamais. No hay Merlot aquí — el estante queda vacío, silencioso, esperando una botella que nunca llega.
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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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Schloss Waldreichs was first documented in 1258. Around 1400, Kaspar and Bernhard von Waldreichs are mentioned as feudal lords. After its destruction by an executionary army of the estates in 1446–1448, it was rebuilt as a fortress around 1450 under Hans Harrasser. The present-day ruin in the east wing, the chapel, and the eastern tower date from this period. In 1460, it was enfeoffed to Vinzenz Stodoligk. From 1519–1536, it was united with the Lordship of Ottenstein. Between 1530–1534, it was converted into a moated castle under Eustach Stodoligk. From 1533, it was a free property. In 1536, the complex passed to the Barons of Altena, who expanded it with a zwinger and a manor farm. After its conquest and plundering by imperial troops, the complex was rebuilt again and subsequently changed owners frequently. When it passed to Heinrich von Pereira-Arnstein in 1815, it was united with the Lordship of Wetzlas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Stausee Dobra?
Stausee Dobra offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with nearly 100 trails in total. For families, you'll find a great selection, including 47 easy routes and 40 moderate routes, ensuring there's something suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Are there any easy circular walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, Stausee Dobra is ideal for easy circular walks. For instance, the Schloss Waldreichs – Waldreichs Castle loop from Schloss Waldreichs is an easy 4.6 km route that takes just over an hour, perfect for families looking for a gentle stroll. Many paths are easily accessible and offer shaded sections, making them comfortable even on warmer days.
What are the main natural features and landmarks to look out for on family hikes?
The region is known for its picturesque, fjord-like reservoir, surrounded by imposing cliffs and dense coniferous forests. A significant landmark is the medieval Dobra Castle ruin, which stands majestically on a promontory. The castle keep has been converted into an observation tower, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the lake landscape. You can explore this area on routes like the Schloss Waldreichs – Dobra Castle Ruins loop.
Are the hiking trails around Stausee Dobra suitable for strollers?
While many trails are family-friendly, not all are suitable for strollers due to varied terrain, including some steeper sections and natural paths. We recommend checking the specific route details on komoot for terrain information. Generally, flatter, wider paths around the reservoir or near Schloss Waldreichs are more likely to be stroller-friendly.
Can I bring my dog on the family hiking trails?
Yes, Stausee Dobra is generally dog-friendly, and many trails welcome dogs. However, it's always advisable to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature protection areas or near wildlife. Please be mindful of other hikers and local regulations.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family around Stausee Dobra?
The area is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant hiking conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also great, especially with the shaded routes and opportunities for swimming in the designated bathing areas. Winter walks can be magical, but some paths might be icy or less accessible.
Are there any longer, moderate family hikes that include historical sites?
Absolutely. The Schloss Waldreichs – Dobra Castle Ruins loop from Schloss Waldreichs is a moderate 11.5 km route that takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes. It beautifully combines natural scenery with historical sights like the Dobra Castle ruin. Another option is the Dobra Castle Ruins – Waldreichs Castle loop from Schloss Ottenstein, a moderate 14.5 km trail.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Stausee Dobra?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.56 stars from over 770 ratings. Reviewers often praise the serene waters, the lush greenery of the coniferous forests, and the tranquil experience offered by the fjord-like reservoir. The blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks like Dobra Castle ruin is also frequently highlighted.
Are there places to eat or relax near the hiking trails?
Yes, the Stausee Dobra area offers amenities for visitors. You'll find cafes and restaurants in nearby towns and sometimes directly at popular starting points or attractions. The reservoir also has two designated bathing areas for swimming and relaxing, perfect for unwinding after a hike.
Is there parking available for families near the trailheads?
Yes, parking is generally available at common starting points for hikes, such as near Schloss Waldreichs or other access points around the reservoir. It's always a good idea to check specific route descriptions for detailed parking information before you head out.
What other activities can families enjoy in the Stausee Dobra area besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, families can enjoy various activities. The reservoir is popular for freshwater diving and fishing. For an adrenaline rush, the Dobra Castle ruin is the starting point for the 'Big Fly,' an almost 400-meter-long steel cable zipline across the lake. There are also designated bathing areas for swimming and relaxing, especially enjoyable during warmer months.
Most popular routes around Stausee Dobra
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