On the track of wild cats

Hiking with children in Lower Austria: hiking through Mendling Valley, in Thaya Valley National Park (Nationalpark Thayatal) or in the Vienna Alps.

Fun and games, interesting animals and easy routes: Thanks to small highlights along the way and easy to walk routes, kids will take to hiking here in no time. Then the whole family can enjoy hiking their way through the colorful fall or mild winter.

A Salamander on rails? The highest elevation playground in Lower Austria? An excursion to the Vienna Alps including a ride on the Schneeberg railroad is sure to motivate young hikers, especially with all the little attractions along the way. And there is plenty to see besides the trains, too, in this recreational area near Vienna. Theme and adventure trails invite visitors to take off on fascinating and easy to walk outdoor tours.

A special theme trail awaits you in Göstling an der Ybbs: “On the Lumber Trail” takes you through the last functioning lumber driving operation in Europe. The route traverses narrow gorges and the alluvial forest over wooden bridges to numerous stations: The house for journeymen smiths with smoke room, the old grain mill or the baking room all bear witness to traditional handicrafts. A good tip: the regularly scheduled lumber driving demonstrations.

Thaya Valley National Park also offers hiking adventures in the fall. Young hikers will soon forget their tired feet at the big playground and on exciting guided tours to wild animals. Wild cat fans will want to explore the Wild Cat Hiking Trail with public feedings up to October and experience the two cats Diego and Carla up close.