Arbesbach can be explored through a range of highlights: bear watching at BÄRENWALD, granite and water at Höllfall, and historic buildings and trails. The destinations range from a nature spot accessible only on foot to a viewing tower and a fully operational hammer mill. When planning, therefore, the key question is less about choosing a single route and more about whether the landscape, outdoor activities, wildlife watching or local history will shape your stay.
Landscape and trails
At Höllfall, small waterfalls make their way over and between thousands of granite boulders. The area is designated both as a natural monument and as a European protected area. Höllfall can only be reached on foot via the five-kilometre Höllfallweg circular hiking trail, which starts in Pretrobruck near Arbesbach. The access method and starting point are therefore just as important to planning your trip as the waterfalls and granite formations.
The cross-country ski trails near Arbesbach offer a different perspective on the landscape. They pass through forests, scattered settlements and expansive open terrain, with wide views of the characteristic landscapes of the Waldviertel Highlands. The North-South Long-Distance Trail and the Vier-Märkte-Weg also pass through Arbesbach. Cyclists can connect to the Waldviertel cycling and mountain biking region as well as the Mühlviertel Cycling Trail. The routes each have their own focus: ski trails, paths through the town and cycling connections.
Bear watching at BÄRENWALD
BÄRENWALD Arbesbach is a sanctuary run by animal welfare organisation VIER PFOTEN for bears in need. Visitors can watch bears there. The Bärentrail starts and ends at BÄRENWALD Arbesbach—a clear reference point for anyone wishing to combine wildlife watching with a route in their plans.
Buildings and local history
The ruins of Arbesbach Castle are the surviving tower remains of a former Kuenringer castle. The 25-metre-high tower remains have been converted into a viewing tower and offer panoramic views of the characteristic landscapes of the high Waldviertel. Here, the area's architectural past meets views of the regional landscape.
The hammer mill in Kamp near Arbesbach is still fully operational. It offers a different focus from the castle ruins: here, the emphasis is on full functionality, while there, it is on the surviving tower remains. The church in Arbesbach also offers a glimpse into local history. After the great fire of 1756, it was rebuilt by master builder Georg Rueff between 1761 and 1772.
The Steinkreuzweg is an open-air Way of the Cross with 14 stations, laid out as a circular hiking trail; it starts in Arbesbach's main square. The stations are set on natural boulders. The rock is therefore directly part of the design, while the circular trail offers a sequence of stations.
Arbesbach swimming pond
Facilities at Arbesbach swimming pond include a sunbathing lawn, buffet, sandy area, carousel and ropeway. With these varied amenities, the swimming pond offers a distinct focus alongside the trails, scenic attractions and buildings.
Discover more destinations: Bernreith, Friedersbach, Bärnkopf, Schoberhof, Kottes, Griesbach, Bad Traunstein, Schwarzenau
Go to the main travel overview: Zwettl.
