Temperatures in Vienna are hovering around the 30-degree mark, and the city’s outdoor pools will soon be bursting at the seams. Anyonelooking for an alternative to the Old Danube on hot days this year doesn’t have to travel far for a refreshing dip. Just a short distance upstream lies a spacious stretch with excellent water quality that offers a surprising amount of tranquility. We’re talking about the Greifenstein branch of the Danube
By bike or train to the water
Getting there is completely straightforward and can be perfectly combined with some exercise in the fresh air. From Vienna, you can take a leisurely bike ride along the flat Danube Cycle Path and enjoy unobstructed views of the landscape the whole way.
If you prefer the convenience of public transit, hop on the S40 S-Bahn line and simply get off at the Greifenstein-Altenberg station. From there, it’s just a short walk to the swimming area, so you won’t have to lug your packed cooler very far.
Right here, at the Greifenstein branch of the Danube, a spacious riverside landscape stretches out, dotted with many old, shady trees. Perched high on the cliff is the striking GreifensteinCastle, which was built as a fortification as early as the 11th century.
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The historic complex is now privately owned and currently closed to visitors, but it offers an excellent photo opportunity from the shore. Instead of touring the castle’s narrow walls, you can spread out your towel here and jump into the cool water completely free of charge.
Picnic on the shore and short distances
This quiet stretch of the river is perfect for swimming a few long laps or breaking in your own stand-up paddleboard in peace. For a classic picnic in the great outdoors, just grab a free spot on the sunbathing lawn right by the water.
If you arrive without any provisions, there are small eateries in the immediate vicinity where you can grab a cold drink or a snack. Drivers also have it very easy here by the river: the Donaulände in St. Andrä-Wördern offers convenient parking right next to the facility.
If you’re looking for a scenic view after swimming, you can hike from the train station to the Tempelbergwarte in about an hour. The trail takes you through a shady forest, which is especially pleasant on sunny days. At the end of your relaxing outing, simply hop back on the S-Bahn and you’ll be at Franz-Josefs-Bahnhof in under half an hour.
📍 Location: Greifenstein Danube Arm
🗺 Donaulände, 3422 St. Andrä-Wördern (parking lot / boat transfer facility)
🚂 Directions: S40 to Greifenstein-Altenberg station, Danube Cycle Path, or by car (Donaulände parking lot)
