Attractions and Places To See around Herzogenburg - Top 20

Why do I just not feel comfortable near nuclear power plants?

A really beautiful cycle path along the Traisen

The Zwentendorf nuclear power plant on the Danube, near Tulln in Lower Austria, was planned in the 1970s as Austria's first commercial nuclear power plant. Construction began in 1972 and was essentially completed in 1976. The plant was designed as a boiling water reactor with an electrical output of 730 MW and was considered modern and safe by the standards of the time. Despite its complete construction, the power plant was never put into operation. The decisive factor was the referendum on November 5, 1978, in which 50.47% of Austrians voted against its commissioning. The National Council subsequently passed a law prohibiting the use of nuclear energy for electricity generation in Austria. Thus, Zwentendorf remains the only completed but never commissioned nuclear power plant in the world. In the following decades, the plant was not dismantled but continued to be used. Since the 2000s, it has served as a training and education center for power plant and safety personnel, as a real reactor without radioactive radiation offers a unique training environment. Guided tours, technical training sessions, film shoots, and events also take place there. A photovoltaic system was later installed on the site, making it a symbol of the energy policy shift and Austria's decision against nuclear power.

The Traisen Valley Cycle Path runs from the Danube near Traismauer to Mariazell. The section between Traismauer and St. Pölten is just over 20 kilometers long and is considered a particularly family-friendly route, as it is largely flat and well-maintained. The route mostly runs directly along the Traisen River and through tranquil, scenic floodplain landscapes. Especially in the lower reaches, there are many renaturalized riverbanks that provide habitats for rare bird species, fish, and beavers. The route is also suitable for beginners and families.

The St. Georg Danube Bridge is accessible to cyclists and pedestrians via a separate pedestrian and cycle path. Cyclists have their own dedicated cycle path running alongside the bridge, ensuring a safe crossing of the Danube. Access to the bridge is via a specially constructed spiral ramp, which is convenient and safe to navigate. The bridge is a key junction on the Danube Cycle Path, which runs along the river. It connects the northern and southern routes. Cyclists and pedestrians enjoy magnificent views of the Danube and the surrounding landscape from the bridge. The original bridge opened in 1980, and the modernized version with improved infrastructure was completed in 2010. The St. Georg Bridge is a central component of the region's infrastructure and an important crossing point for cyclists exploring the Kamptal, Traisental, or Danube region.

Here you can quickly get to the other side of the Danube. At the top you have a great view over the river.

Beautiful crossing of the Danube

The Traisen Valley Cycle Path is the ideal route for families and beginners. The Traisen Valley Cycle Path stretches from the Danube near Traismauer to Mariazell and offers particularly family-friendly sections. The approximately 20-kilometer section between Traismauer and St. Pölten is characterized by its flat and well-maintained route, making it suitable for both novice cyclists and families. This scenic route runs primarily directly along the Traisen River and leads through tranquil floodplains that invite you to linger. Especially in the lower reaches of the Traisen, you will find many renaturalized riverbanks where rare bird species, fish, and beavers have found a habitat. Enjoy nature on this relaxing bike tour, which is not only fun but also offers educational insights into the local flora and fauna. Whether with children or as a beginner, this route promises an unforgettable experience!