Top 19 Lakes in St. Pölten
Best lakes in St. Pölten offer a blend of active recreation and natural beauty within the city's vicinity. The area features several options for outdoor activities, primarily centered around the Ratzersdorfer See and the Viehofner Seen. These lakes provide local recreation areas with various amenities and trails. St. Pölten's lake landscape is accessible for visitors seeking water-based activities or lakeside relaxation.
Best lakes in St. Pölten
- The most popular lakes is Ebersdorfer Lake, a lake known for its water…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Great Viehofner Lake
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Ebersdorfer Lake
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Observation Tower Between Viehofner Lakes
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Florian's Teichstüberl
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Traismauer Natural Swimming Lakes
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The three natural lakes offer the ideal opportunity to cool off during the summer months. In addition to the excellent water …
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Pielachtal Camping and Swimming Pond
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Ratzersdorfer See
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Paddle Boat Rental at Viehofner See
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Information Board at Viehofner Seen
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Lake With Wooden Dock in St. Pölten
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Tips from the Community
Due to the restaurant's popularity, it is highly recommended to reserve a table in advance to ensure you get a seat.
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beautiful swimming lake, but very algae-covered in some places
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Even in winter it's a beautiful sight, and there are actually people who bathe in the ice...
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The Viehofner Lakes in St. Pölten consist of the Großer Viehofner See and the Kleiner Viehofner See, and together form a popular local recreation area. The lakes are connected by a canal and offer a variety of opportunities for recreational activities such as swimming, boating, walking, and cycling. Well-developed cycling and hiking trails run along the shores, offering magnificent views of the water and the surrounding nature. While the Großer Viehofner See invites you to linger with its lawns, swimming areas, and restaurants, the Kleiner Viehofner See, with its reed beds and breeding grounds, is a nature reserve and provides a habitat for numerous bird species. The area thus combines recreation, sports, and nature experiences in the immediate vicinity of the city.
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Free swimming, parking is subject to a fee, except in winter
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A must visit, delicious and inexpensive!
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The Ratzersdorfer See in St. Pölten was created in the 1970s as a local recreation area and offers numerous leisure activities. It is an artificially created bathing lake. The sports and leisure facilities include beach volleyball courts, a basketball and football pitch, and a mini golf course. There are restaurants to cater for your physical well-being, and you can take a short break here during your tour. The lake is easily accessible by bike via the Traisental cycle path. Admission is free.
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Lake Ebersdorf is a popular local recreation area with excellent water quality. It offers swimming, a large lawn, shady areas, wooden walkways, and a circular trail. Sports activities such as beach volleyball, soccer, and a high ropes course with a "flying fox" over the lake provide variety. The Haus am See, with its grilled specialties, and the See Side cocktail bar invite you to linger. The lake is freely accessible and free to use.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in St. Pölten are best for family activities?
Several lakes in St. Pölten are ideal for families. The Ratzersdorfer See offers playgrounds, beach volleyball, a basketball court, and mini-golf. Ebersdorfer Lake features large lawns, swimming, and even a high ropes course with a "flying fox." The Great Viehofner Lake is popular for swimming, boating, and stand-up paddling.
What kind of water sports and activities can I do at the lakes?
The lakes around St. Pölten offer a variety of water sports and activities. At Ratzersdorfer See, you can enjoy swimming, beach volleyball, basketball, and mini-golf. The Great Viehofner Lake is open for swimming, boating, and stand-up paddling, with a paddle boat rental service available. Ebersdorfer Lake is also great for swimming and offers beach volleyball.
Are there any nature reserves or places for wildlife observation near the lakes?
Yes, the Small Viehofner Lake, part of the Viehofner Seen complex, is a designated nature reserve. It features extensive reed beds and provides a crucial habitat for numerous bird species. For conservation reasons, swimming and boating are prohibited there, making it an excellent spot for quiet nature observation. You can also get panoramic views of the lake landscape from the Observation Tower Between Viehofner Lakes.
How can I reach the lakes in St. Pölten using public transport?
The Ratzersdorfer See and the Viehofner Seen are easily accessible by public transportation. LUP lines 3 and 7 serve these areas. Additionally, both lake areas are well-connected via the Traisental cycle path, making them convenient to reach by bike as well.
Are there dining options or cafes available near the lakes?
Yes, visitors will find several dining options. At Ratzersdorfer See, there are gastronomy options like the See Lounge and Kiosk Pansky. The Great Viehofner Lake features the lakeside restaurant "Seedose." Near Ebersdorfer Lake, you can find the Seerestaurant Platz'l, Haus am See, and the See Side cocktail bar. Florian's Teichstüberl is also a highly-rated restaurant nearby.
Can I go hiking or cycling around the lakes in St. Pölten?
Absolutely. Well-developed cycling and hiking trails run along the shores of the Viehofner Seen and Ratzersdorfer See. These lakes are directly on the Traisental cycle path. For specific routes, you can explore easy hikes like the "Ratzersdorfer See – Großer Viehofner See loop" or road cycling routes such as "Großer Viehofner See – Along the Traisen loop" which are available in the St. Pölten area.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in St. Pölten?
The lakes are most popular during the warmer months, typically from May to September, when swimming and water sports are in full swing. This is also when amenities like gastronomy options and boat rentals are fully operational. However, the trails around the lakes are enjoyable for walking and cycling year-round, offering different scenic beauty in spring, autumn, and even mild winter days.
Are there any lakes with unique features or attractions?
Yes, Ebersdorfer Lake stands out with its high ropes course, including a "flying fox" that goes over the lake, providing an adventurous experience. The Viehofner Seen also feature a 12-meter-high observation tower offering panoramic views of the lake landscape.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in St. Pölten?
Visitors frequently praise the blend of active recreation and natural beauty. Many appreciate the excellent water quality for swimming, the well-maintained facilities, and the variety of sports activities available. The peaceful atmosphere, despite the proximity to the city, and the scenic views, especially from the observation tower, are also highly valued. The free entry to most lakes is also a big plus.
Are there easy walking trails suitable for all ages around the lakes?
Yes, the lakes in St. Pölten offer numerous easy walking trails. Both the Ratzersdorfer See and the Viehofner Seen have well-developed paths around their shores, perfect for leisurely strolls. For example, the "Ratzersdorfer See – Großer Viehofner See loop" is an easy hike suitable for families and those seeking a relaxed walk.
Is parking available at the lakes in St. Pölten?
Yes, parking is generally available at the main lake areas like Ratzersdorfer See and the Viehofner Seen. However, it's important to note that parking fees may apply during the peak summer months, typically from May to September.
Are dogs allowed at the lakes in St. Pölten?
While specific regulations can vary, dogs are generally not allowed in the designated bathing areas of lakes like Ratzersdorfer See from May to September. For the Small Viehofner Lake, as a nature reserve, strict rules apply to protect wildlife. It's always best to check local signage for the most current information on dog policies at each specific lake.
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