Where history meets nature at its finest – trekking along the river Lainsitz

The trail along the Lainsitz river leads you from the source of the river at the Lainsitz spring to Chlum in the Czech Republic in four stages. What makes this cross-border hiking trail so special, apart from the fantastic nature around the river, is the remarkable history of the region which you will learn a lot about along the way.

The Lainsitz, or the “Young Lainsitz,” as it is affectionately called in Austria, is known for two main characteristics: Firstly, there is an abundance of unspoilt nature and historical sites such as castles, palaces and romantic ruins. You can visit several sites as you hike each stage of the trail. Secondly, as the border river between the Czech Republic and Austria, the Lainsitz has played a significant role in history.

On the Austrian side, you will cover between 9.9 to 18.6 miles (16 - 30 km) per stage on the newly signposted long-distance hiking trail. Depending on which trail you choose, you will climb to the top of the Nebelstein (Fog Stone) and visit historic towns and villages such as Weitra, Gmünd, and Litschau. And, finally you will cross the border into the Czech Republic, where other sights, including a nature reserve and a castle, await. The Lainsitz, which stretches as wide as the Danube in places, flows continuously by your side

No trip to the Lainsitz is complete without paying a visit to a couple of inns on the way. The valley is famous for its potatoes, beer and carp. At the moment more than 30 different kinds of potatoes in all colors, shapes and sizes are found here. One of the stage destinations, Weitra, is one of the oldest breweries in Austria, serving delicious beers helped by the Lainsitz’ high water quality. Then there is the famous Waldviertler carp which is bred in the numerous ponds of the region to round up your culinary experience.

But enough raving. You can look forward to a few days in untouched nature, delicious local Waldviertler dishes and the interesting history of the region.