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Cumberland Wildlife Park
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The Cumberland Wildlife Park in Grünau is located in the Almtal valley of Upper Austria, spanning approximately 60 hectares against the backdrop of the Totes Gebirge mountains. Established in 1971, the park is internationally renowned for its close cooperation with the Konrad Lorenz Research Station, which focuses on behavioural biology. The facility houses numerous indigenous species in large, naturalistic enclosures, including Alpine ibex, red deer, brown bears, and wolves. A particular emphasis is placed on the research and protection of endangered bird species such as the northern bald ibis and the greylag goose, which roam freely throughout the grounds. The landscape is defined by the Alm River and various ponds, making the park a significant habitat for waterbirds and otters. Accessible trails allow visitors to observe wildlife closely year-round. Beyond being a recreational site, the wildlife park makes substantial contributions to scientific research and species conservation in the northern Alpine foothills. Historically, the area is closely linked to the House of Cumberland, which was instrumental in the park's founding.
- Location: Upper Austria, Austria
- Nearby: Hinterstoder (15 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | -1 | 3 | 8 | 13 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 13 | 9 | 4 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 94 | 73 | 85 | 68 | 132 | 152 | 149 | 150 | 115 | 89 | 70 | 81 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
Cumberland Wildlife Park in Grünau im Almtal is open from March to November; the best visit time is spring when greylag geese breed and goslings are visible. Autumn features the deer rut with impressive calls and behavior.
Best time of day
Early morning birds are most active, especially greylag geese during feeding and social interactions. Late afternoon when visitor numbers drop, animals often appear more relaxed and approachable.
Etiquette
Please do not feed the animals, as the research on greylag geese requires natural feeding. Keep distance from enclosures and avoid loud noises to avoid stressing the animals - this especially applies to breeding geese.
What to bring
Binoculars are highly recommended for observing greylag geese and other birds in their natural behavior. Sturdy shoes are advisable as the park has meadow and forest trails that can be muddy after rain.
Getting there
Cumberland Wildlife Park is located in Grünau im Almtal, about 60 kilometers south of Linz, and is reachable by car via the B120 road. Public buses run from Gmunden to Grünau, from where it's a 20-minute walk to the park entrance.
What to expect
Greylag geese are accustomed to humans, but their behavior varies by season - during breeding they are more cautious. Allow time to observe social interactions; unexpected scenes often develop that are worth the wait.
Geography
Facts
- The total area of the park is approximately 60 hectares.
- Founded in 1971 in Grünau im Almtal, Upper Austria.
- Home to about 500 animals from roughly 80 different species.
- Host to the world-renowned Konrad Lorenz Research Station.
- Key breeding station for the endangered northern bald ibis.
- Flowed through by the Alm River, known for its water purity.
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Sights in the town Cumberland Wildlife Park (1)
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Frequently asked questions
Which animals are particularly famous in the Cumberland Wildlife Park?
The greylag geese and northern bald ibises due to the Konrad Lorenz research station.
What is the terrain like?
It is a spacious, natural valley with flat hiking trails.
Are there parking spaces at the wildlife park?
Yes, there is a large parking lot right at the park entrance.
Is photography allowed in the park?
Yes, photography for private purposes is allowed everywhere.
How long does the large circular path take?
You should plan for about 2 hours for the entire loop.
Cumberland Wildlife Park: where is it located?
Cumberland Wildlife Park is located in Upper Austria, Austria.
Cumberland Wildlife Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Cumberland Wildlife Park: why is it worth visiting?
The Cumberland Wildlife Park in Grünau is located in the Almtal valley of Upper Austria, spanning approximately 60 hectares against the backdrop of the Totes Gebirge mountains.
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