An artificially created body of water winds its way through the Waldviertel for about 14 kilometers , its shape reminiscent of winding fjords. If you drive about 90 minutes by car northwest from the outskirts of Vienna, you’ll reach the Ottenstein Reservoir. Although the area is well-known to many, the remote stretches of shore remain pleasantly uncrowded even in the height of summer. Here you’ll learn all about the hidden spots and the best way to rent a boat so you can recharge your batteries in complete peace and quiet.
The dammed waters of the Kamp ensure excellent water quality and a pleasant way to cool off. While there are usually more people gathered around the dam, you can easily leave the hustle and bustle behind. To do so, you simply need to explore the area from the water. While many day-trippers gather at the well-known beach areas, the back area with its steep cliffs remains quiet. By boat, you can reach secluded side channels, as these are virtually inaccessible on foot.
Boat Rental Facilities
Right by the lakeside restaurant on the main shore, you’ll find a boat rental that offers pedal boats, electric boats, and canoes. Since the lake’s branches are extremely extensive, you’ll quickly find your own secluded swimming spots by boat. Afterward, you can relax and dock at the flat granite rocks.
If you want to glide peacefully across the water, rent an electric boat for 27.60 euros per hour. You can also rent a rowboat starting at €15 or a pedal boat to navigate completely silently through the narrow fjord arms.
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How do you find the best spots by boat?
Since the lake is lined with dense coniferous forests, the sun’s rays hit deep green, clean water here. As soon as you leave the first bends in the river behind you, the hustle and bustle at the docks gives way to complete silence. You can also jump into the water right from the boat or tie up at shallow granite rocks.
Once you’ve chosen a boat, it’s worth heading toward the peninsula with the Lichtenfels castle ruins. From the water, you’ll enjoy a fascinating view of the medieval walls towering above the treetops. However, be mindful of the occasional sightseeing boats that operate on the main routes.
If you turn into the narrower coves, however, you’ll have the cool water almost all to yourself. Finally, you can anchor in the shade of the trees while enjoying the snack you brought along with some fresh dark bread. As a result, a tour on the reservoir effortlessly combines relaxation with physical activity.
📍 Ottenstein Reservoir
🏠 Peygarten-Ottenstein 3, 3532 Rastenfeld
🎟️ Free admission (boat rental approx. €15–€25 per hour)
⏰ Shore area freely accessible year-round
🛶 Boat rentals available from approximately May through October
