Natural monuments around Braunau am Inn are characterized by the Inn River and its surrounding natural environment. The region, part of the Innviertel in Upper Austria, features diverse landscapes including rivers, forests, and unique geological formations. The area offers opportunities to explore natural heritage and scenic routes.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
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Is actually only worth it if you are there anyway. The best thing is the view from the opposite slope.
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Passing west of the beautiful Bettenauer Weiher (driving is prohibited all around).
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The Bettenauer Weiher lies in a depression between Wildberg and Uzwil, entirely within the municipality of Oberuzwil, in the Toggenburg region in the Swiss Alpine foothills. The pond's bottom consists of peat soil. The pond includes the smaller peat ponds to the east. The Bettenauer Weiher was originally a moor pond, the origin of which can ultimately be traced back to the formation of a depression between the Wildberg and Vogelsberg mountains during the Würm glaciation, when the entire Toggenburg region was covered by the Rhine glacier. The area around the Bettenauer Weiher is a fen of regional importance. It is part of an amphibian spawning area of national importance. For this reason, the pond has had an amphibian guide structure, a protected road underpass, since 1993. [Source: Wikipedia]
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The recommended diversion due to the new road closure from January 24, 2025 is listed on Swiss Topo (road closures).
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The passageway is now TOTALLY closed: https://www.bischofszell.ch/aktuellesinformationen/2346937
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The path was completely closed on January 24, 2025. https://www.thurgauerzeitung.ch/ostschweiz/oberthurgau/baum-zerstoert-abschrankung-sicherheit-ist-nicht-mehr-gewaehrleistet-bischofszeller-haldenstrasse-nun-auch-fuer-velofahrer-und-fussgaenger-ab-sofort-sperred-ld.2724978
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A very varied and interesting hike with good signage and paths
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The region around Braunau is characterized by the Inn River and its tributaries, offering diverse landscapes. You can find impressive waterfalls like Giessenfall Waterfall, tranquil lakes such as Bettenauer Pond, and various viewpoints that provide panoramic vistas. The area also features forests and unique geological formations, including a notable landslide area known as Landslide Road.
Yes, the area combines natural beauty with historical significance. For instance, Last Ruin is a natural monument featuring the old ruined tower of a hilltop castle dating back to the 12th century. Additionally, in the broader district, the village of Fugging is home to two linden trees designated as natural monuments, often associated with a small chapel, suggesting historical importance.
Several natural monuments are suitable for families. Giessenfall Waterfall offers paths through the forest and a picnic area. Bettenauer Pond is a popular local recreation area perfect for a walk. Nollen, a viewpoint, also welcomes families to enjoy its panoramic views.
The region offers various outdoor activities. For cycling enthusiasts, there are routes like the 'Nollen Loop' or the 'Nollen Panoramic View – View of Wuppenau and the Alps loop'. Hikers can enjoy trails such as 'Braunau Chapel – View of Säntis loop' or explore the 'Singletrack at the Hartenaubach'. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Braunau and Hiking around Braunau guides.
Yes, there are numerous hiking trails. For example, you can explore the paths leading to Giessenfall Waterfall through the forest. The 'Braunau Chapel – View of Säntis loop' is an easy 6.3 km hike, and the 'Singletrack at the Hartenaubach – Braunau Chapel loop' offers a moderate 8.6 km option. More hiking routes are available in the Hiking around Braunau guide.
Visitors frequently appreciate the scenic beauty and tranquility. For instance, the Giessenfall Waterfall is praised for its impressive cascade and the picturesque view from below. The Nollen viewpoint is highly regarded for its magnificent panoramic views of Lake Constance, the Alps, and the Hegau. Many also enjoy the peaceful walks around places like Bettenauer Pond.
Absolutely. Nollen is a prominent viewpoint, standing at 735 meters high, offering extensive panoramic views of Lake Constance, the Thur Valley, the Hegau, the Säntis, and the Churfirsten. Last Ruin, a historic castle site, also provides a good vantage point from its hilltop location.
The natural landscape of Braunau is significantly shaped by its rivers. The Inn River itself defines much of the area, and the Mattig river, while partly regulated, still boasts a very natural upper course. While not designated as individual monuments, the rivers and their ecosystems, home to otters and crayfish, are central to the region's natural appeal. Giessenfall Waterfall is a direct example of a water-related natural monument.
Exploring by bike or on foot is highly recommended. The Inn Cycle Path offers excellent opportunities for cycling along the riverside scenery. For walking, there are numerous trails, from easy strolls around ponds like Bettenauer Pond to more challenging routes leading to viewpoints or waterfalls. You can find specific routes in the Cycling around Braunau and Hiking around Braunau guides.
Yes, the Landslide Road is a unique geological feature and natural monument where the terrain has been gradually sliding towards the river. It's accessible for pedestrians and cyclists, offering a distinct natural experience.
While many sites are easily accessible, some, like the path to Giessenfall Waterfall, can be quite traily and potentially slippery when wet, involving a steep and narrow staircase. The Landslide Road, while passable, is a dynamic natural feature that requires awareness of its changing conditions.


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