Attractions and Places To See around Grafenschlag - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Grafenschlag are located in the Zwettl district of Lower Austria. This area offers a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. The region is characterized by its granite formations and provides views across the Waldviertel. Visitors can explore various points of interest that reflect the area's heritage and landscape.
Best attractions and places to see around Grafenschlag
- The most popular attractions is Lohnbach Waterfall, a waterfall where the Lohnbach stream…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Lohnbach Waterfall
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Between Pretrobruck and Grub in the valley, the Lohnbach overcomes …
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Plague Column at the main square in Zwettl
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Kunst Zwingt Rost Sculpture Park
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Burg Rappottenstein
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Rapottenstein Castle tells of …
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Hundertwasser fountain, Zwettl
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The local authorities succeeded in persuading the master artist Hundertwasser to design and construct a fountain in the main square. The presentation of the fountain model met with both widespread approval and vehement opposition from the residents of Zwettl. In 1994, the fountain, consisting of three main elements—the two fountain columns with basins and the pavilion—was unveiled to the public. Since then, it has been a popular meeting place in the heart of the town. Friedensreich Hundertwasser died in February 2000 at the age of 71.
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Until the end of the 19th century, a monumental fountain stood in the middle of the main square, the terminus of Zwettl's oldest water supply system, dating back to the early 17th century; a place where the population gathered, not just to fetch water. A war memorial was erected here in 1925, and from the mid-20th century onward, the square in the heart of the town was primarily used as a park. In the early 1990s, the municipality of Zwettl decided to redesign the main square. The aim was to give the town an attractive central point once again and thus preserve the tradition of the old Zwettl main square for the present and future. Friedensreich Hundertwasser, born Friedrich Stowasser in 1928, had owned an old mill on the banks of the Kamp River above Zwettl since the 1970s.
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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.
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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.
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If you have time, you should definitely see the castle's interior. But be sure to check the opening hours. You can also stop for refreshments in the castle tavern. Good food!
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Most beautiful place in Zwettl.
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Beautiful square with a fountain designed by Hundertwasser and a nice little snack bar.
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Absolutely worth seeing, endless attention to detail, COMPLIMENTS to the artist!!!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural sights should I visit near Grafenschlag?
The Lohnbach Waterfall is a must-see, where the Lohnbach stream descends dramatically over an eight-meter height difference. You can also visit the picturesque Grafenschlag Landscape Pond, a popular spot for swimming, with the scenic Walpurgis hiking trail running alongside it. For panoramic views, head to The Guttenberg, the highest point in the municipality, offering expansive vistas across the Waldviertel region and unique granite rock formations.
Where can I find historical landmarks around Grafenschlag?
Grafenschlag boasts several historical sites. Burg Rappottenstein is a prominent castle situated on a granite rock mountain, showcasing Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. In Grafenschlag itself, you can see St. Martin's Parish Church, a notable architectural landmark, and The Pillory, a 17th-century historical artifact in a central park. Additionally, the Plague Column at the main square in Zwettl is a significant man-made monument with buildings dating back to the 16th century.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in Grafenschlag?
Yes, families can enjoy several attractions. The Hahn Alpaca Farm offers guided hiking tours with alpacas, suitable for all ages. The Kunst Zwingt Rost Sculpture Park is a very ingenious and creative place with whimsical rust figures that children often find engaging. Burg Rappottenstein is also considered family-friendly and offers an exciting journey through history.
What hiking opportunities are available around Grafenschlag?
The Walpurgis Hiking Trail offers an excellent opportunity to explore the local landscape, including the Grafenschlag Landscape Pond. You can also find various hiking routes, such as the 'Lohnbach Waterfall – Lohnbachfall – Steinerne Stube loop from Rappottenstein', which is a moderate 16.6 km hike. For more options, explore the 'Hiking around Grafenschlag' guide at komoot.com/guide/27463/hiking-around-grafenschlag, or for easier walks, check out 'Easy hikes around Grafenschlag' at komoot.com/guide/3610050/easy-hikes-around-grafenschlag.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in the Grafenschlag area?
The Guttenberg, as the highest point in the municipality, provides expansive panoramic views across the Waldviertel region, with distant sights of Ötscher, Schneeberg, and Rax on clear days. The Lohnbach Waterfall area also offers beautiful natural views. Additionally, the Kaiser Franz Joseph Memorial is an ideal place for a short rest with a view, featuring seating and a small stream.
Is there a place to swim in Grafenschlag?
Yes, the Grafenschlag Landscape Pond is a picturesque and favored spot for swimming during the warmer months. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
What is the Klemuwa museum about?
Klemuwa, known as 'The Smallest Museum in the Waldviertel,' is located in Langschlag, a cadastral community within Grafenschlag. It occupies the former 'Lugendorf – Langschlag' railway station and serves as a unique exhibition space for regional artists, hosting creative displays and events. It's open year-round with free admission.
Are there any cycling routes near Grafenschlag's attractions?
Yes, the region offers several road cycling routes. You can find routes like the 'Robotstein Monument – Zwettl loop from Grafenschlag' (49.7 km) or the 'Zwettl – Hundertwasser fountain, Zwettl loop from Lugendorf' (44.5 km). For a comprehensive list of cycling tours, visit the 'Road Cycling Routes around Grafenschlag' guide at komoot.com/guide/27465/road-cycling-routes-around-grafenschlag.
What kind of unique art can I see around Grafenschlag?
You can explore the Kunst Zwingt Rost Sculpture Park, which features very ingenious and creative sculptures made from rust. It's located at the entrance to the Lohnbachfall hiking trail. Additionally, Klemuwa – The Smallest Museum in the Waldviertel – showcases unique exhibitions by regional artists.
What is the significance of The Pillory in Grafenschlag?
The Pillory, located in a central park in Grafenschlag, is a 17th-century historical artifact. It stands as a reminder of the area's past judicial practices, reflecting Grafenschlag's long history, with its first documented mention dating back to 1321.
Are there any accessible attractions in the area?
The Plague Column at the main square in Zwettl is noted as wheelchair accessible, making it an option for visitors with mobility needs to experience a historical landmark.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Grafenschlag?
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty of the Lohnbach Waterfall, often describing it as beautiful and worth seeing, especially at high tide. The Kunst Zwingt Rost Sculpture Park is praised for its ingenuity and creativity. Many also enjoy the historical journey offered by Burg Rappottenstein and the charm of Zwettl's main square with its Plague Column.
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