Best attractions and places to see around Großer Viehofner Lake, located near St. Pölten, Austria, is a central part of the "St. Pöltner Seenerlebnis" recreational area. This area, which also includes Ratzersdorfer See and Kleiner Viehofner See, offers a combination of natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The lake was formed through sand and gravel extraction and has since been developed for both nature conservation and public use. Its eastern side is open for swimming and water activities, while the smaller…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Parking
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Großer Viehofner Lake.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Viehofner Lakes in St. Pölten consist of the Großer Viehofner See and the Kleiner Viehofner See, and together form a popular local recreation area. The lakes are connected by a canal and offer a variety of opportunities for recreational activities such as swimming, boating, walking, and cycling. Well-developed cycling and hiking trails run along the shores, offering magnificent views of the water and the surrounding nature. While the Großer Viehofner See invites you to linger with its lawns, swimming areas, and restaurants, the Kleiner Viehofner See, with its reed beds and breeding grounds, is a nature reserve and provides a habitat for numerous bird species. The area thus combines recreation, sports, and nature experiences in the immediate vicinity of the city.
3
0
Free swimming, parking is subject to a fee, except in winter
1
0
Currently still free. From September 1st, 2022 to April 30th, 2023 no fee - FREE 😉
1
0
Great view over the lakes to St. Pölten and the mountains.
2
1
A beautiful view over the water to Viehofen Castle, a short detour from the Traisental cycle path.
6
0
Located directly on the Traisental cycle path - perfect for swimming. No entrance fee. Beautiful meadows!
5
0
This viewing platform is located between the big and small Viehofner lakes and offers a beautiful view from above over the lakes, over St. Pölten and up to the mountains. It is not far from the Traisental cycle path. You can easily push your bike the short stretch to the platform.
1
0
There are beautiful bathing opportunities in the lake in front of the castle
2
0
The eastern side of Great Viehofner Lake is popular for swimming and bathing. You can also rent various boats, including pedal boats, rowing boats, canoes, and Standup Paddling equipment from Paddle Boat Rental at Viehofner See. Extensive cycling and walking routes encircle the lakes, connecting to the Traisental-Radweg and other regional paths.
Yes, the Observation Tower Between Viehofner Lakes offers panoramic views of the entire St. Pölten lake landscape, including the Viehofner and Ratzersdorfer lakes. It's a twelve-meter-high tower providing a wide vista of the surrounding area.
Beyond the main lake, the Kleiner Viehofner See is dedicated entirely to nature and serves as an important bird breeding ground. The surrounding area also features rich floodplain landscapes (Aulandschaften) and the nearby Traisen River, contributing to the natural ambiance.
Absolutely. The area is very family-friendly, offering swimming, boating, and extensive walking and cycling paths. The adjacent Ratzersdorfer See also provides a broader range of facilities, including multiple playgrounds, beach volleyball courts, and a mini-golf course, making it ideal for a family day out.
There is a dedicated parking area, the Viehofner Seen Parking Lot. Please note that parking is typically chargeable from May to September, with half an hour costing 0.50 euros and a maximum daily rate of 4 euros.
Yes, the Uferrestaurant "Seedose" is located lakeside and offers refreshments and meals. They also provide a unique service where you can order picnics to enjoy by the lake or even on a pedal boat. The nearby "Odysee" also offers gastronomic options.
The summer months are ideal for visiting, especially if you plan to swim or engage in water sports, as the eastern side of Großer Viehofner See is open for bathing. The extensive cycling and walking trails are enjoyable throughout spring, summer, and autumn.
Yes, some areas around the Viehofner Lakes, such as the vicinity of the Information Board at Viehofner Seen and the Viehofner Seen Parking Lot, are noted as wheelchair accessible. The general paths around the lakes are well-maintained and suitable for strollers.
There are several easy hiking trails around Großer Viehofner Lake. You can find routes like the "Ratzersdorfer See – Großer Viehofner See loop" or the "Großer Viehofner See – Kleiner Viehofner Lake loop." For more details and route options, you can explore the Easy hikes around Großer Viehofner Lake guide.
Yes, the area is well-suited for cycling and mountain biking. The lakes are connected to the Traisental-Radweg, offering extensive routes. For mountain biking, you can find trails such as the "Traisen bridge – Großer Viehofner See loop." More routes are available in the MTB Trails around Großer Viehofner Lake guide.
Visitors frequently praise the area for its relaxing atmosphere and natural beauty, offering a welcome change from city life. The opportunity for swimming, boating, and enjoying meals at the lakeside restaurant "Seedose" are often highlighted. The panoramic views from the Observation Tower Between Viehofner Lakes are also a favorite.
While the area is primarily recreational, you can enjoy picturesque views of Schloss Viehofen (Viehofen Castle) from the lake. The lakes themselves were formed through sand and gravel extraction between the 1970s and 1980s, on a site with historical significance.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: