Waidhofen an der Ybbs begins with a striking topographical setting: the settlement arose on a sheltered rocky spur at the confluence of the Ybbs and Schwarzbach rivers. The well-preserved late medieval townscape keeps this history in view. The uniform architecture of the town centre combines traditional building styles with influences from Italy.
Townscape and traces of the fortifications
Various historic features can be discovered along the town fortifications. A defensive moat ran alongside the town wall; three large towers served as watchtowers and have survived to this day. Of the former town gates, only the Ybbstor remains. The round tower behind the parish church was also part of the fortifications and once housed the city’s arsenal as an armoury for its defence.
Climbing the castle tower offers a different perspective: climb more than 100 steps and be rewarded with a view across the entire town. Rothschild Castle is located in the centre of Waidhofen an der Ybbs and serves as a venue for weddings, celebrations, cultural events, seminars and other occasions. A guided tour offers insights into the history of the castle and that of its owners, residents and users. On a guided tour around Rothschild Castle, participants also stop at three local establishments to drink cider, beer and wine.
Water, energy and regional history
The 5 Elements Museum presents the history of Waidhofen and the region as a pre-modern industrial landscape shaped by ironworking. Modern installations, historical insights and interactive experiments make the museum an experience for visitors of all ages. The exhibition “From Waterwheel to Turbine” focuses on the development of hydroelectric power in Waidhofen: it displays historic types of turbines, including a Kaplan turbine. Guided tours of the Schwellöd demonstration power plant explain how energy generation developed on and with the Ybbs.
Guided tours of the 5 Elements Museum can also be booked outside opening hours by prior arrangement. During museum opening hours, the Schwarzbach site is freely accessible via the information point. A picnic there includes provisions from Hartner Bakery in a gourmet hamper.
Exploring the Ybbs and the high-level trails
The Ybbs Riverbank Trail starts at Ybbsturm and follows the Ybbs on a walking route. Those looking for a route with views and several trail options will find selected cycling and hiking routes, with picnic spots along the way, on the Panorama Heights Trail. It is known for its magnificent views.
The central section of the Ybbstal Cycle Route between Waidhofen an der Ybbs and Lunz am See also makes planning a trip straightforward: it has hardly any inclines and is car-free. Waidhofen is a popular starting point for the cycle route; Ă–BB and Westbahn take travellers to it. The Radtramper bus runs daily between Waidhofen an der Ybbs and Lunz am See during the summer holidays. In May, June, September and October, it runs only on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Check the service dates for your chosen travel period before setting off.
More discoveries and events
At Buchenberg Adventure Park, experiences include a programme about raccoons and donkey hikes, which introduce visitors to animal behaviour and habitats. The park is home to raccoons and raccoon dogs, as well as lynx, wolves and wildcats. Archery enthusiasts can choose between two 3D archery courses with around 50 stations in total.
The cultural programme also adds its own highlights throughout the year: the Waidhofen Volksbühne stages its Schlosshofspiele every July and also presents a children’s production each spring. The Advent market at Rothschild Castle takes place every year on the second weekend of Advent; check the current dates before travelling. Filmbühne Waidhofen screens curated films outside the mainstream.
Local culinary specialities include Ybbstal trout, organic Mostviertel beef and Mostschober. Waidhofen offers a variety of things to discover side by side: its late medieval townscape, the history of hydroelectric power, trails along the Ybbs and seasonal cultural events. Choose which ones will shape your stay according to your interests.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Waidhofen an der Ybbs, Neunkirchen, Gänserndorf, Baden, Waidhofen an der Thaya, Korneuburg, Amstetten, Lilienfeld.
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