Highlight • Lake
Parish Pond
Hiking
4.7
(199)
Gravel riding
5.0
(3)
Cycling
5.0
(2)
Mountain biking
5.0
(1)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
Pfarrerteich is a beloved recreational lake nestled in the picturesque Waldviertel region of Lower Austria, just outside Sallingstadt, within the market town of Schweiggers. Situated at an elevation of 595 meters above sea level, this inviting lake has been thoughtfully modernized to offer a wide array of leisure facilities, making it a popular destination for visitors of all ages seeking relaxation and fun in nature.
What draws people to Pfarrerteich is its vibrant atmosphere and the beautiful panorama it offers, creating a perfect backdrop for a day out. Visitors consistently praise the extensive range of activities available, from swimming and sunbathing to active sports, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. The lake's transformation from its historic origins into a modern leisure facility is a testament to its enduring appeal.
Getting to Pfarrerteich is straightforward, with a large parking lot conveniently located nearby, making access easy for most. The area is also noted for its accessibility, with paths suitable for wheelchairs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the lakeside amenities. Practical facilities like bathing cabins with changing rooms, lockers, and a buffet are available, especially during the peak summer months, enhancing the visitor experience. While some natural processes like algae growth are observed, the lake remains a cherished spot for recreation.
The best time to visit Pfarrerteich lake for swimming and water activities is during the summer months, particularly July and August, when the bathing facilities are fully operational. The annual lake festival (Teichfest) around the summer solstice is a major highlight, drawing crowds for festive celebrations. Beyond swimming, visitors can enjoy beach volleyball, table tennis, or simply relax on the sunbathing lawn. The lake also hosts the "Bunte Dorf" vacation camp, providing adventure and fun for children throughout the holidays.
Beyond the water, the area around Pfarrerteich lake offers charming spots for social gatherings, such as a unique 4-meter-long seating group crafted from a spruce log, perfect for barbecues. The presence of the "Bunte Dorf" vacation camp and the nearby Sallingstadt Youth Guesthouse further highlight the area's commitment to community and recreation. These features contribute to the lake's reputation as a lively hub for both locals and tourists.
For those looking to explore the surroundings or plan their visit, numerous routes and activities cater to different interests. Whether you're interested in family friendly walks Pfarrerteich lake, enjoying the water trampoline, or simply soaking in the views, there are options for everyone. You can discover various Pfarrerteich lake routes and plan your next adventure using komoot, which offers a comprehensive overview of the area's trails and points of interest.
Tips
June 2, 2020
Hiking
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April 12, 2026
Gravel riding
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Parish Pond
4.7
(15)
67
hikers
8.01km
02:29
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(35)
349
hikers
12.5km
06:08
1,080m
1,080m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(23)
183
hikers
19.5km
06:49
900m
900m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 750 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Monday 15 June
21°C
9°C
67 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of activities are available at Pfarrerteich beyond swimming?
Beyond swimming, Pfarrerteich offers a wide array of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy a large water trampoline, a beach volleyball court, table tennis facilities, and a sunbathing lawn. There are also barbecue areas available for social gatherings. The lake hosts the annual Teichfest around the summer solstice, and the 'Bunte Dorf' vacation camp for children.
Are there any specific hiking trails or walks around Pfarrerteich lake?
While the immediate area around Pfarrerteich is more focused on leisure and bathing, it serves as a great starting point for exploring the surrounding Waldviertel region. For specific hiking routes and detailed information on trail difficulty, elevation profiles, and terrain, hikers can explore options on komoot to find paths that suit their preferences, including family-friendly walks.
Is Pfarrerteich lake suitable for families with young children?
Absolutely! Pfarrerteich is designed to be very family-friendly. It features a non-swimmer's pool, a diving board, a slide, and a water trampoline. The 'Bunte Dorf' vacation camp for children is also located here, indicating a strong focus on youth activities. The sunbathing lawn and barbecue areas provide space for families to relax together.
Are dogs allowed at Pfarrerteich lake or on nearby trails?
The provided information focuses on human recreational activities at the lake itself. While there are no explicit rules mentioned regarding dogs at the immediate bathing facility, it's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash in public recreational areas. For specific dog-friendly trails in the wider region, it's best to check local regulations or explore routes on komoot that specify dog-friendly policies.
What are the parking options and accessibility like at Pfarrerteich lake?
There is a large parking lot conveniently located near Pfarrerteich, making access easy for most visitors. The area is also noted for its accessibility, with paths suitable for wheelchairs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the lakeside amenities. One visitor tip specifically mentions the lake being 'easily accessible even with wheelchairs'.
What is the historical significance of Pfarrerteich lake?
The original Pfarrerteich was established between the 14th and 15th centuries, with its first documented mention in 1750. It was once owned by Zwettl Abbey and later managed by the parish of Schweiggers, which gave it its current name, 'Pfarrerteich' (Parish Pond). After being shut down for a period, it was re-established as a swimming lake in 1976 through extensive voluntary work and reopened in 1978, transforming it into the modern leisure facility it is today.
Are there any facilities for changing or refreshments at the lake?
Yes, during the summer months, particularly July and August, the bathing cabin is open. This facility provides changing rooms, lockers, and refreshments from a buffet/canteen. There is also a large hall (Teichhalle) on the dam with a kitchen and sanitary facilities, primarily used for the children's vacation camp.
What is the water quality like at Pfarrerteich lake?
The lake has undergone significant modernization and redesign to improve its water quality and enhance its appeal. However, one visitor tip mentions that the lake can be 'very contaminated with algae,' suggesting that natural processes, including algae growth, are present. Despite this, it remains a popular spot for swimming and leisure.
Are there any accommodations or dining options near Pfarrerteich lake?
While the lake itself has a buffet/canteen during peak season, for more extensive dining or accommodation, you would need to look in the surrounding area. The 'Sallingstadt Youth Guesthouse' is located nearby. For cafes, pubs, restaurants, or hotels, you would typically find options in the market town of Schweiggers or other nearby villages in the Waldviertel region.
How does Pfarrerteich compare to other nearby lakes like Kreuzteich?
One visitor tip mentions Pfarrerteich being 'located right next to the nicer Kreuzteich.' This suggests that while Pfarrerteich is a popular recreational spot with many amenities, some visitors might find Kreuzteich to have a different, possibly more natural or aesthetically pleasing, appeal. Both lakes offer unique experiences in the region.
What is the best time of year to visit Pfarrerteich for activities other than swimming?
While the summer months (July and August) are ideal for swimming and water activities, Pfarrerteich can be enjoyed outside of peak bathing season for other recreational purposes. The area offers a beautiful panorama year-round for walks and relaxation. The annual lake festival (Teichfest) around the summer solstice is a major highlight. For specific seasonal conditions like winter hiking, it's advisable to check local weather and trail conditions.