Danube-Auen National Park

The Donau-Auen National Park, located between the bustling metropolises of Vienna and Bratislava, preserves one of the last major undisturbed floodplain landscapes in Central Europe. Along a 38-kilometer stretch of the Danube, the river is allowed to flow and flood naturally, creating a dynamic mosaic of side arms, gravel banks, and lush riparian forests. This ecosystem is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 800 plant species and a variety of rare wildlife, including the majestic white-tailed eagle, the brilliant kingfisher, and the European pond turtle. Often referred to as the 'Green Lung' of the region, the park provides essential ecosystem services such as air purification and natural flood protection. Accessible via the popular Danube Cycle Path, the park gives numerous opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and guided canoe trips that allow for a silent approach to the river's inhabitants. The national park center at Orth Castle serves as a gateway for education, featuring a unique underwater observation station and trails that explain the delicate balance of the floodplain ecology. Ongoing restoration projects aim to remove artificial embankments and reconnect isolated side arms, ensuring that the 'Green Ribbon' of the Danube continues to thrive as a vital ecological corridor in the heart of the continent.

Nearby cities

St. Pölten

St.

Sankt Pölten

Sankt Pölten is Austria's oldest city and its youngest state capital, blending Baroque history with striking modern architecture.

Sankt Pölten Land

The Sankt Pölten-Land district surrounds the Lower Austrian state capital and extends from the gentle Alpine foothills into the Vienna Wo…

Mödling

Mödling is an enchanting Babenberg city south of Vienna, known for its romantic old town and access to the scenic Vienna Woods.

Klosterneuburg

Located at the gates of Vienna, Klosterneuburg charms visitors with its magnificent Augustinian Abbey and traditional viticulture.

Amstetten

Amstetten is an important hub in the Mostviertel and stands for mobility, business, and short links between the Danube and the Alpine foo…

Krems an der Donau

Krems is located at the eastern end of the Wachau on the Danube.

Korneuburg

Korneuburg is a charming city on the Danube, known for its historic shipbuilding tradition, magnificent main square, and high quality of …

Tulln an der Danube

Tulln an der Danube is a lively town in Lower Austria with a strong connection to the river, gardens, and regional agriculture.

Neunkirchen

Neunkirchen is a traditional district town on the edge of the Bucklige Welt and close to the Semmering region.

Strasshof

Strasshof an der Nordbahn is an important railway town in the Marchfeld, known for its large locomotive depot and long railway history.

Purkersdorf

Purkersdorf is located directly on the Vienna city boundary in the heart of the Vienna Woods, combining nature-oriented living with histo…

Gerasdorf bei Wien

Gerasdorf bei Wien is a vibrant municipality in the Marchfeld region, directly bordering the Viennese districts of Floridsdorf and Donaus…

Wiener Neudorf

Wiener Neudorf is an economic powerhouse south of Vienna, combining modern industrial areas with green recreation zones and historical he…

Sankt Valentin

The westernmost city in Lower Austria is a significant transport hub and industrial location with a rich railway history.

History & landmarks

Gumpoldskirchen

Famous wine village at the foot of the Anninger south of Vienna, known for its Heuriger culture and unique Zierfandler and Rotgipfler gra…

Melk Abbey

A monumental Baroque jewel overlooking the Danube, famous for its magnificent library and the UNESCO Wachau Valley.

Spitz an der Donau

Traditional wine town in the Wachau at the foot of the Tausendeimerberg, characterized by steep terraces and shipping history.

Dürnstein

Iconic wine town in the Wachau, known for its striking blue church tower and the castle ruins where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned.