Neusiedler See

Introducing Neusiedler See

Neusiedler See, Europe’s second-largest steppe lake, is the lowest point in Austria. But what it lacks in height, it makes up for in other areas. Ringed by a wetland area of reed beds, it’s an ideal breeding ground for nearly 300 bird species and its Seewinkel area is a particular favourite for bird-watching.The lake’s average depth is 1.5m, which means the water warms quickly in summer. Add to this prevailing warm winds from the northwest and you have a water enthusiast’s dream come true. Thousands of tourists flock to the lake for windsurfing and sailing during the summer months. The best swimming beaches are on the eastern side of the lake, as the western shore is thick with reed beds. The lake’s shallowness also attracts many families – the only drawback is that the water has a slightly saline quality, as there is no natural outlet.

The area is also perfect for cycling; a flat cycle track winds all the way round the reed beds, the ferries crisscrossing the lake carry bikes and most hotels and pensions cater well to cyclists. It’s possible to do a full circuit of the lake but as the southern section stretches into Hungary, remember to take your passport (path open April to November).

To top it all off there are acres upon acres of vineyards, producing some of Austria’s best wines. Rust, on the western shore of the lake, is a perfect place to sample wine in a Heuriger.

Much of the Neusiedler See closes down from October to late March. If you’re overnighting, ask whether the place you’re staying at issues the free Neusiedler See Gästekarte (most do), which provides free admission to swimming areas and museums (including many in Sopron), the national park, free use of public transport (travel on ferries is half-price) and other perks.

Neusiedler See Tourismus (02167-8600; www.neusiedlersee.com; Obere Hauptstrafe 24, in Neusiedl am See; 8am-5pm Mon-Fri) is the information centre for the lake region for telephone, post and email enquiries.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009