Attractions and Places To See around Allentsteig - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Allentsteig, located in the Waldviertel region of Lower Austria, offer a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. The region features the Ottenstein Reservoir, known for its fjord-like arms and wooded shores, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Historical sites like Schloss Allentsteig and Zwettl Abbey contribute to the area's cultural significance. Visitors can explore a variety of natural landscapes and historical architecture.
Best attractions and places to see around Allentsteig
- The most popular attractions is Ottenstein Castle, a castle that is a 12th-century historical site situated on the northern shore of the Ottenstein Reservoir. It features mighty conical and hipped roofs and hosts various events.
- Another must-see spot is Ottenstein reservoir, a lake known for its fjord-like, branching arms and wooded shores. It is a popular recreational area for hiking and walking.
- Visitors also love Plague Column at the main square in Zwettl, a man-made monument located in a beautiful town square. The surrounding town center features historic buildings dating back to the 16th century.
- Allentsteig is known for its historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural monuments. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castles to serene lakes.
- The attractions around Allentsteig are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 100 photos and over 270 upvotes shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Ottenstein reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Plague Column at the main square in Zwettl
Highlight • Monument
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
Ottenstein Lake Restaurant & Boat Rental
Highlight • Restaurant
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Schloss Waldreichs
Highlight • Castle
Nothing remains of the original moated castle.
In the area around Waldreichs Castle, the imperial master falconer and feudal knight Hanns Hager resided and dined from and to Allentsteig and Lichtenfels.
After multiple changes of ownership and the threat of decay, the current owner, the Windhag Scholarship Foundation for Lower Austria, began to completely renovate the castle in 1983.
The castle itself CANNOT be VISITED but only admired from the outside. Only those parts and the area where the Lower Austrian Falconry & Birds of Prey Center is located are freely accessible.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lichtenfels Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Allentsteig.
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
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.
0
0
Originally, after the town's founding, Trinity Square was part of Zwettl's main square, which at that time stretched as an extensive triangular plaza from the townhouses behind the Hundertwasser Fountain to the level of the Hausleitner house above the "Zur Goldenen Rose" inn. The construction of houses along the lower Landstraße, the so-called "Grätzl," significantly narrowed the main square, and the addition of the cross street eventually divided it into two squares.
0
0
During the Baroque period, people everywhere were eager to express their gratitude for overcoming the plague years and the Turkish Wars by erecting plague or Trinity columns. In 1727, the pillory in the upper square was replaced by the richly sculpted sandstone column created by Kaspar Högl of Eggenburg. During the last renovation in 1998, extensive environmental damage to the figures was repaired, and the entire column was painted a light yellow. The four life-size statues are, in the center at the front, the Immaculate Conception; to her left, St. Sebastian (pierced by five arrows); to her right, St. Roch (pointing to the plague boil on his thigh); and St. Florian (holding a flag in one hand and a bucket of water in the other). The iron fountain in the immediate vicinity of the Trinity Column is a gift from the then-mayor, Eugen Beck, of the twin town of Plochingen near Stuttgart.
0
0
our tour to the castle - https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/2048966452
0
1
This lake is near Ottenstein and has caused a lot of misery in 2024
1
0
Zwettl has a beautiful town centre and the main square is super beautiful. Unfortunately, the many cars and noisy traffic spoil the beautiful picture...
0
0
We read somewhere that this dam would no longer be approved today. Nevertheless, the lake fits well into the landscape. It has a strange, branched shape!
1
0
The castle is idyllically situated on the cycle paths and is perfectly embedded in the landscape.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in the Allentsteig region, beyond the Ottenstein Reservoir?
Beyond the well-known Ottenstein Reservoir, you can visit Allentsteig's City Lake, which offers opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. The entire Waldviertel region is characterized by natural beauty, including wooded shores and scenic landscapes ideal for outdoor activities.
What historical sites are there to visit in the Allentsteig area, besides Ottenstein Castle and the Plague Column?
The region is rich in history. You can explore Schloss Allentsteig, an 11th-century defensive structure. Nearby, Zwettl Abbey is the third-oldest Cistercian monastery in the world. The Aussiedlermuseum Allentsteig, housed in the historic Schüttkasten, tells the story of displacement in the region. Other notable sites include the Pfarrkirche Allentsteig, Renaissanceschloss Greillenstein, and historical markers like the steinerne Marktmetzen and the Florian column.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions around Allentsteig?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Ottenstein Reservoir offers boat rentals and swimming opportunities. The Ottenstein Lake Restaurant & Boat Rental is a great spot for a meal with a view. The NÖ Falknerei- und Greifvogelzentrum (Lower Austria Falconry and Bird of Prey Center) provides an engaging experience with birds of prey, which can be fascinating for all ages.
What kind of outdoor activities, particularly hiking, can I do near Allentsteig's attractions?
The area around Allentsteig is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy and moderate options. For example, there's an easy 5 km loop from Schloss Ottenstein called "Footbridge Over Ottenstein Dam – Ottenstein Dam loop." You can find more hiking routes and detailed information on the Hiking around Allentsteig guide and the Easy hikes around Allentsteig guide.
What water-based activities are available at the Ottenstein Reservoir?
The Ottenstein Reservoir is a hub for water activities. You can enjoy swimming, boat rentals, and fishing. The fjord-like arms and wooded shores make it a picturesque setting for a day out on the water or by the lakeside.
Are there any unique cultural or artistic sites to discover in the broader Allentsteig region?
Yes, for a unique cultural experience, you can visit the Aussiedlermuseum Allentsteig, which focuses on the region's history of displacement. Additionally, the broader Waldviertel region features examples of the renowned artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser's work, such as the Hundertwasser fountain in Zwettl and a Hundertwasser-designed facade in Roiten.
Are any of the attractions around Allentsteig wheelchair accessible?
The Plague Column at the main square in Zwettl is noted as wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy the historic town center. For other attractions, it's advisable to check specific accessibility details beforehand.
Where can I find dining options or facilities near the main attractions?
The Ottenstein Lake Restaurant & Boat Rental is a popular spot offering dining with views of the reservoir. Ottenstein Castle also has a well-known castle kitchen for culinary delights, including banquets and à la carte options.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Allentsteig?
Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty of the Ottenstein Reservoir, describing its paths as beautiful despite occasional traffic noise. The historic town center of Zwettl, with its Plague Column, is also highly appreciated for its charm, though some note the traffic can detract from the experience. The opportunity to walk or cycle over the Ottenstein Dam is also a unique highlight.
Can I cycle around the Ottenstein Reservoir and its dam?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. There are great cycle paths with excellent views over the Ottenstein Reservoir. You can also cycle across the Ottenstein Dam via a dedicated footbridge, which offers a unique perspective of the structure and the lake.
Are there any running trails available near Allentsteig?
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity. For instance, you can find a moderate 5.4 km loop from Allentsteig called "Schloss Allentsteig – Wooden Dock on the Frozen Lake loop." More running routes are detailed in the Running Trails around Allentsteig guide.
Most popular attractions around Allentsteig
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:
