Hardegg is worth a trip - the smallest town in Austria is thanks to the idyllic location on the Thaya (and thus directly on the border with the Czech Republic), the picturesque castle (1145 oldest known documentary mention, the oldest parts come from the early 12th century). Century, developed and expanded until the 17th century, then destroyed and decayed, partially rebuilt around 1900) and the surrounding forest (including the national park) are well worth seeing and offer numerous hiking, MTB and e-bike opportunities also worth seeing sections for racing bike tours. All this can also be done very well across borders here.
The descent described here begins immediately after the National Park House Thayatal (there is also parking for activities and refreshments available) and leads through the forest down to the town. You should be careful with the two curves (the first comes soon after the NP house), especially with the second, as this leads to the right at a fairly acute angle after a gradient of approx. 8%. After this hairpin bend there is a wonderful view of Hardegg Castle (see photo taken from this location). If you continue in Hardegg in the direction of Felling, there is a third hairpin bend. Otherwise you can also cross the intersection and then turn left through the city (or right via the pedestrian and cycle path) to the Thaya and thus to the border crossing at the bridge. As a climb, this section is also very interesting and especially pleasant in summer because you drive through a largely shady section of forest.