Historic alleyways, bustling squares, lush forests and peaks offering stunning views: in Waidhofen an der Ybbs, town life and nature go hand in hand. Here, the path into the countryside often begins right in the heart of the old town. Regional cuisine, special spots and the landscape of the Ybbstal Alps make Waidhofen the perfect destination for anyone wishing to combine enjoyment, exercise and culture.
Waidhofen is a place where town and countryside blend together quite naturally. Historic streets, a vibrant cultural scene, our forests, mountains and the River Ybbs are all just a stone’s throw away from one another. It is precisely this proximity that makes Waidhofen so special and invites you to discover our town with all your senses.
Waidhofen combines the best of both worlds. The historic old town tells a story spanning centuries, whilst all around, forests, mountains and the River Ybbs characterise the landscape. Schloss Rothschild, museums and cultural events sit alongside hiking trails, nature experiences and cosy places to stop for a bite to eat. So you can climb a peak in the morning, stroll through the old town in the afternoon and enjoy regional cuisine in the evening.
Rothschild Castle rises directly above the Ybbs River as the town’s landmark. Here, historic walls meet modern architecture, creating an extraordinary place for culture and social interaction. The glass cube, the view over the town, and the unique atmosphere between the castle grounds and the old town make the castle a must-see on any visit to Waidhofen.
The nature experience begins just a few steps from the town. Buchenberg, Schnabelberg, Glatzberg, and other peaks around Waidhofen invite you to discover the town from new perspectives. Whether you’re taking a leisurely hike or a challenging trek, peace, nature, and sweeping views await you at the top. What makes it special: The path from the town square to this nature experience is surprisingly short.
At the 5-Elements Museum, visitors can experience the history of Waidhofen from different perspectives. Fire, water, earth, wood, and metal guide visitors through the town’s past and tell the story of the forces that have shaped Waidhofen and the region. New hands-on activities and interactive elements invite visitors not only to observe history but to discover it for themselves.
