Nationalpark Donau-Auen
Niederösterreich
Donau-Auen National Park, established in 1996, preserves one of the largest and most intact floodplain landscapes in Central Europe along a 38-kilometer stretch of the Danube River. Covering 9,600 hectares, it extends from Vienna to the confluence of the Morava (March) River on the Austrian-Slovak border. The park's diverse habitats include extensive wetlands, floodplain forests, and riverine ecosystems that support over 700 plant species, around 30 mammal species, 100 breeding bird species, and numerous reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Notable inhabitants include the European pond turtle, European ground squirrel, European mudminnow, white-tailed eagle, kingfisher, and beaver. The park is a haven for biodiversity and serves as a critical refuge for species adapted to dynamic riverine environments. Its creation was the result of significant environmental activism in the 1980s, which halted plans for a hydroelectric power plant that threatened the area's natural integrity. Today, Donau-Auen offers extensive trails such as the long-distance hiking route 07 and the Danube Cycle Path, inviting visitors to explore its unique landscapes. The park's headquarters and visitor center are located in the historic Orth Castle, which also hosts a local history museum. Donau-Auen National Park exemplifies successful conservation efforts balancing natural heritage protection and sustainable public access.
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Tip: The best time to visit Donau-Auen National Park is late spring through early autumn when wildlife is most active and trails are accessible. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets or book guided tours in advance, especially for special programs or educational events. Discounts may be available for groups, students, and seniors. The park offers well-marked hiking and cycling paths, so bring suitable footwear and a bicycle if possible. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the park's ecology and history. Check the official website for up-to-date opening hours and event schedules.
Interesting facts
- •Donau-Auen National Park spans 9,600 hectares and stretches 38 kilometers along the Danube River.
- •It is one of the largest remaining intact floodplain forests in Central Europe.
- •The park is home to more than 700 species of higher plants and approximately 5,000 animal species, including rare reptiles like the European pond turtle.
- •In 1984, the "Hainburg Movement" involved thousands of people occupying the floodplains to prevent the construction of a hydroelectric power plant, marking a milestone in Austrian environmental activism.
- •Orth Castle within the park serves as the visitor center and headquarters for the park administration.
- •The park includes the last remaining free-flowing sections of the Danube in Austria, vital for maintaining natural river dynamics.
History
The Donau-Auen area remained largely unregulated until the 19th century, when human interventions began altering the natural floodplain through river regulation and forestry.
In the 1950s, plans for a chain of hydroelectric power plants threatened the last free-flowing sections of the Danube in Austria.
The proposed Hainburg power plant sparked nationwide protests and a large-scale occupation of the Hainburg floodplains in 1984, known as the "Hainburg Movement." After legal interventions and public pressure, the power plant project was halted.
Subsequent scientific studies revealed the area's exceptional biodiversity, leading to its designation as a national park in 1996 through a treaty between Austria and the states of Vienna and Lower Austria.
The park was expanded in 2016, adding over 277 hectares to its protected area, further securing its ecological integrity.
Place Guide
Orth Castle Visitor Center12th century
A historic three-story castle dating back to the 12th century, serving as the headquarters and visitor center of Donau-Auen National Park. It houses museumORTH, a local history museum, and offers educational exhibits about the park's natural and cultural heritage.
Floodplain Forest Trails
Extensive hiking and cycling trails wind through the park's floodplain forests and wetlands, providing opportunities to observe diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitats. The trails include parts of the long-distance hiking route 07 and the Danube Cycle Path.
Ship Mill on the DanubeRestored in 2008
A restored functional ship mill on the Danube River, one of the few remaining examples of traditional water-powered milling once common along the river downstream of Vienna. It was recovered and restored in 2008 and demonstrates historic riverine industry.
Contact
Phone: 02212 3450
