Highlight • Lake
Hohenauer Pond
Hiking
4.6
(106)
The Hohenauer Teich is a serene, artificial pond nestled within the expansive Lainzer Tiergarten in Vienna, Austria. Situated at an elevation of 310 meters, this tranquil body of water offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. It is fed by the Lainzer Bach and forms a key natural feature within the historic wildlife preserve, located in Vienna's 13th district, Hietzing.
Visitors consistently praise the Hohenauer Teich for its calm atmosphere and natural beauty. Many are captivated by the impressive, large carp that inhabit the pond, often described as "amazing" and "huge" by those who have seen them. The area's family-friendly amenities, including a large children's playground, a sunbathing area, and an animal enclosure featuring aurochs, also make it a beloved destination for all ages.
To reach the Hohenauer Teich, visitors typically enter the Lainzer Tiergarten via the Lainzer Tor, the preserve's main entrance. From there, it's approximately a 20-minute walk to the pond. While a 1995 study confirmed the pond's excellent water quality, swimming is prohibited to protect its delicate ecosystem. The surrounding area is rich in wildlife, offering chances to spot wild boars, red deer, fallow deer, roe deer, and mouflons.
The Hohenauer Teich is an ideal spot for nature lovers seeking recreational activities such as walking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Its accessible trails and inviting meadows make it perfect for a leisurely day out. The presence of the playground and sunbathing area ensures that families can enjoy a full day of outdoor fun, making it a popular choice for family friendly walks throughout the year.
Many visitors highlight the unique experience of observing the ancient aurochs in the nearby enclosure, a species successfully bred back from ancient cattle breeds within the Lainzer Tiergarten. The sheer size of the carp in the pond is another frequently mentioned delight, adding to the memorable wildlife encounters. The overall sense of peace and connection with nature stands out as a key takeaway for those who visit.
Whether you're looking for easy hiking trails, a relaxing stroll, or a place for the family to enjoy nature, the Hohenauer Teich offers a variety of experiences. Explore the numerous walking routes around the pond and through the Lainzer Tiergarten, or use komoot to discover detailed Hohenauer Teich lake trails routes. Information on how to get to Hohenauer Teich lake by public transport and available parking near the Lainzer Tor can help you plan your visit to this beautiful Viennese landmark.
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Tips
June 18, 2023
Hiking
The pond is fed by the Lainzer Bach. It is unclear when the pond has existed: the only thing that is certain is that it was created artificially by a dam in the stream. In a study carried out by the City of Vienna in 1995, the pond was awarded bathing water quality. However, bathing is prohibited in the two-hectare body of water.
•June 18, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Hohenauer Pond
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Details
Informations
Elevation 310 m
Weather
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Tuesday 5 May
26°C
14°C
24 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the recommended hiking routes around Hohenauer Teich, and are they suitable for all skill levels?
The Hohenauer Teich is located within the Lainzer Tiergarten, offering a variety of walking and hiking paths. While the immediate area around the pond is generally flat and easy, suitable for leisurely strolls and families, the wider Tiergarten features trails of varying lengths and slight elevation changes. Many visitors enjoy a simple circular walk around the pond itself, which is very easy. For more extensive hikes, you can combine a visit to the pond with trails leading to other landmarks within the Lainzer Tiergarten, such as the Hermesvilla. These longer routes are typically considered easy to moderate.
Is Hohenauer Teich accessible by public transport, and what are the best options?
Yes, Hohenauer Teich is well-connected by public transport. The most common way to reach it is by taking public transport to the Lainzer Tor, which is the main entrance to the Lainzer Tiergarten. From there, it's approximately a 20-minute walk to the pond. Specific bus or tram lines will depend on your starting point in Vienna, but the Lainzer Tor is a recognized stop for several routes.
Are dogs allowed at Hohenauer Teich or within the Lainzer Tiergarten?
No, dogs are generally not allowed within the Lainzer Tiergarten, including the area around Hohenauer Teich. This rule is in place to protect the diverse wildlife that inhabits the preserve, such as wild boars, red deer, and aurochs. Visitors should leave their pets at home when planning a trip here.
What facilities are available for families with children near Hohenauer Teich?
Hohenauer Teich is very family-friendly. Near the pond, you'll find a large children's playground, perfect for younger visitors to enjoy. There's also a spacious sunbathing area where families can relax and have a picnic. Additionally, an animal enclosure housing aurochs is located nearby, offering an educational and exciting experience for children.
Can you swim in Hohenauer Teich?
No, swimming is prohibited in Hohenauer Teich. While a 1995 study confirmed the pond's excellent water quality, bathing is not allowed to preserve its delicate ecosystem and protect the impressive large carp that reside there.
Are there any cafes, restaurants, or accommodation options directly near Hohenauer Teich?
There are no cafes, pubs, or accommodation options directly at Hohenauer Teich itself, as it is located within a nature preserve. However, within the Lainzer Tiergarten, you can find the Hermesvilla, which often has a restaurant or cafe. For more extensive dining and accommodation choices, you would need to look in the surrounding districts of Vienna, particularly Hietzing, which is easily accessible from the Lainzer Tiergarten's main entrances.
What kind of wildlife can be observed around Hohenauer Teich?
The Hohenauer Teich and the surrounding Lainzer Tiergarten are rich in wildlife. Besides the notable large carp in the pond, visitors can often spot wild boars, red deer, fallow deer, roe deer, and mouflons throughout the preserve. The nearby animal enclosure also features aurochs, a species successfully bred back from ancient cattle breeds.
Is Hohenauer Teich suitable for a winter visit, and what activities are possible then?
Hohenauer Teich can be a beautiful destination in winter, offering a serene and often snowy landscape. While specific winter activities like ice skating are not permitted due to safety and ecological reasons, it's an excellent spot for peaceful winter walks and enjoying the crisp air. The trails remain accessible, though they might be icy or muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The quiet winter atmosphere can also enhance wildlife spotting opportunities.
What is the historical significance of Hohenauer Teich and the Lainzer Tiergarten?
The Hohenauer Teich is an artificial pond created between 1780 and 1825 by damming the Lainzer Bach, originally serving as a flood retention basin. It is situated within the Lainzer Tiergarten, which has a rich history dating back to 1561 when Emperor Ferdinand I established it as a private hunting ground for the Habsburg family. Enclosed by a stone wall in 1781, the Tiergarten was eventually opened to the public in 1919, preserving its natural beauty and historical legacy.
How crowded does Hohenauer Teich get, especially on weekends or holidays?
As a popular natural escape close to Vienna, Hohenauer Teich can attract a fair number of visitors, especially on sunny weekends and public holidays. While it offers ample space, the areas around the playground and sunbathing meadow can become quite lively. For a quieter experience, consider visiting during weekday mornings or later in the afternoon. The wider Lainzer Tiergarten generally allows for more dispersed crowds.