Easy hikes and walks around Großer Viehofner Lake
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Easy hiking trails around Großer Viehofner Lake offer a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities near St. Pölten. The area spans 53 hectares, with the lake itself being a significant bird breeding ground. Historically a riverine forest, the landscape now features open water, natural shorelines, and accessible paths. The western shore, including Kleiner Viehofner See, is largely reserved for nature and wildlife.
Best easy hiking trails around Großer Viehofner Lake
- The most popular easy hiking route is Ratzersdorfer See…
Last updated: August 24, 2026
4.2
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386
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
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175
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(6)
121
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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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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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The Ratzersdorfer See in St. Pölten is an artificial bathing lake. It was created in the 1970s as a local recreation area and offers numerous leisure opportunities. The sports and leisure facilities include beach volleyball courts, a basketball and football field, and a mini golf course. There is also a nudist zone on the northwest shore. 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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The seat of the Lower Austrian provincial government.
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Currently still free. From September 1st, 2022 to April 30th, 2023 no fee - FREE 😉
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Great view over the lakes to St. Pölten and the mountains.
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A beautiful view over the water to Viehofen Castle, a short detour from the Traisental cycle path.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Großer Viehofner Lake?
The Großer Viehofner Lake area offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 280 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 430 hiking tours available, catering to various preferences and fitness levels.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Großer Viehofner Lake?
Yes, the area is well-suited for circular walks. A popular option is the Großer Viehofner See loop from Ratzersdorf an der Traisen, which is about 3.5 km long and takes less than an hour to complete. This route offers pleasant lakeside views and is ideal for a relaxed outing.
What kind of natural landmarks or points of interest can I see along the trails?
Hikers can enjoy diverse natural features and points of interest. The western shore of Großer Viehofner See and the Kleiner Viehofner See are significant bird breeding grounds. You can also visit the Observation Tower Between Viehofner Lakes for panoramic views, or explore the natural learning path, Naturlehrpfad Feldmühle, which includes an idyllic biotope.
Is Großer Viehofner Lake suitable for family outings with children?
Absolutely! The easy, mostly flat paths around Großer Viehofner Lake are perfect for family outings and walks with children. Many routes are short and accessible, making them ideal for all ages. The eastern side of the lake also offers amenities like pedal boat rentals for added family fun.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails around Großer Viehofner Lake?
While dogs are generally welcome on many trails, it's important to be aware of restrictions, especially around the western shore of Großer Viehofner See and Kleiner Viehofner See, which are reserved for nature and wildlife. Always keep dogs on a leash and respect local signage to protect the bird breeding grounds.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Großer Viehofner Lake?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 400 reviews. Reviewers often praise the accessible lakeside paths, the natural beauty, and the variety of easy routes suitable for all fitness levels. The combination of nature and recreational opportunities is frequently highlighted.
Are there any places to eat or get refreshments near the trails?
Yes, the 'Seedose' Lakeside Restaurant on the eastern shore of Großer Viehofner See offers refreshments and meals. You can even order a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside or on a rented pedal boat, providing a convenient option for hikers.
What is the best time of year to hike around Großer Viehofner Lake?
Großer Viehofner Lake is enjoyable year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer allows for combining hikes with water activities like swimming or boating on the eastern shore. Winter can also be beautiful for a crisp walk, though conditions may vary.
How can I access Großer Viehofner Lake using public transport?
The Großer Viehofner Lake area is easily accessible via public transportation. The LUP bus lines serve the area, providing convenient access from St. Pölten. This makes it simple to reach the trails without a car.
Are there parking facilities available at Großer Viehofner Lake?
Yes, parking facilities are available for visitors. You can find a designated parking area at the Viehofner Seen Parking Lot. Please note that fees may apply during peak season.
Are there any longer easy routes that connect multiple lakes?
For a slightly longer easy hike, consider the Ratzersdorfer See – Großer Viehofner See loop from St. Pölten Traisenpark. This 6 km route connects both Großer Viehofner See and Ratzersdorfer See, offering varied lakeside views and a pleasant experience that takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
What kind of surfaces can I expect on the easy hiking paths?
The easy hiking paths around Großer Viehofner Lake are generally well-maintained and accessible. You can expect mostly flat terrain with surfaces suitable for walking, running, and cycling, ensuring a comfortable experience for hikers of all abilities.
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