칼슈타인 안 데어 타야 최고의 라이딩 경로

Take a break at the main square in Waidhofen/Thaya. Enjoy a short stroll along the southern promenade or treat yourself to an ice cream or coffee at one of the pastry shops in Böhmgasse or Niederleutnerstraße.

Imposing castle with a very nice cycle path next to it on an old railway line

Karlstein was first mentioned in 1112 as "Chadelstain." As a fiefdom, Karlstein belonged to the respective territorial princes, who granted this rule to knightly families, although no continuous dynasty established itself here. Since the castle was never owned by a single family for an extended period, it was continually rebuilt and expanded. Practically nothing remains of the original castle. In the following centuries, the border region was repeatedly raided by enemy armies (Ottokar, Hussites, Matthias Corvinus). After the suppression of the Peasants' Revolt in 1597, the leader, Andreas Schrembser, was presumably imprisoned in Karlstein Castle. In 1645, the Swedes besieged Karlstein Castle in vain. In 1663, it served as a refuge during the Turkish threat. In 1914, an internment camp was established in the castle, despite it being uninhabitable. The Montenegrin General Staff was also imprisoned there. After the war, the Hungarian communist leader Béla Kun was interned here. Later, the castle was used as a youth hostel, and in the 1960s, it also served as a guesthouse. The castle is now privately owned and no longer open to the public.

If you're planning to explore this area by bike, on a run, or while hiking, make sure to bring your own Merlot. The region is known for its stunning views and outdoor activities, but finding a good spot to enjoy a glass of wine can be a challenge. Packing your favorite Merlot ensures you can savor a well-deserved drink after your adventure!

The town hall with its stepped gables is the town's landmark. It was built around 1520. Changing exhibitions are held in the historic building. It's definitely worth a visit!

Beautiful main square with wonderful historic houses and sights

Unfortunately, we were in a hurry, but this looks like a great place to take a rest and dip in the water. Thaya seems rather wide at this location, so it's probably a better swimming place than the one next to the old bathhouse a few km further north. Shuttle can take up to six bikes in one pass and it's up to you to pull it across the river.

Not much of a swimming place, but we did it anyway. 😎 OK, OK... We dipped in, and enjoyed the cold water for a few minutes. There simply isn't enough water for any serious swimming here. On a positive side: drinking water, nice rest places made of wood, shadows, and a meadow where it's even possible to sleep in a tent overnight.