When the heat beats down relentlessly between the urban canyons, it’s time for a trip out of Vienna—toward nature, history, and a chance to cool off. While you can immerse yourself in the fascinating world of dinosaurs right here in Vienna, sometimes the forest calls!
And who would have thought that a trip to the bygone world of knights and the even more distant world of dinosaurs is just an hour’s drive away? The tranquil village of Muthmannsdorf at the foot of the Hohe Wand offers both.
From Vienna, following in the footsteps of the Struthiosaurus
It was the year 1855 when miners in the local “Gute Hoffnung” coal mine stumbled upon some strange bones. They made a sensational discovery: the Struthiosaurus austriacus. This armored, herbivorous dwarf dinosaur roamed what is now Lower Austria some 80 million years ago.
Today, you can get up close to this spectacular piece of prehistoric history. A themed trail in Muthmannsdorf takes you on a journey into the past. The trail is perfect for families and anyone who wants to let their inner paleontologist’s heart race. In a display case right in the middle of the village, you can even see real fossil fragments!
Cooling off and highlights in the surrounding area
The Dino Trail is great! But when the sun is beating down, the shade of the forest and the cool air of the mountains and gorges beckon.
- Johannesbachklamm (Würflach): Just a few minutes’ drive from Muthmannsdorf, you can hike through a wild and romantic gorge here. The dense canopy of leaves and the cold, rushing waters of the Johannesbach stream provide the perfect natural air conditioning.
- Hohe Wand Nature Park: Since you’re already there, head up the mountain! It’s usually a few degrees cooler up there than in the valley. The famous “Skywalk” offers a breathtaking view over southern Lower Austria.
- Emmerberg Castle Ruins: This mystical gem is hidden at the entrance to the Prosset Gorge. The climb through the shady forest is rewarded with thick, historic walls and a real sense of discovery. A wonderful photo opportunity for all romantics (and amateur knights)!
(To avoid disappointment, please note that entering the castle ruins is not permitted for safety reasons!)
Getting there from Vienna made easy
From Vienna, you’ll be in “Austro-Jurassic Park” in no time:
- By car: Take the Südautobahn (A2) to the Wöllersdorf exit. From there, continue at a leisurely pace toward the Hohe Wand until you reach Muthmannsdorf. Travel time: A relaxed 45 minutes.
- By public transit: From Vienna Central Station, take the Railjet to Wiener Neustadt. There, transfer to the regional train heading toward Puchberg am Schneeberg and get off at Winzendorf. From there, it’s just a few stops on the regional bus directly to Muthmannsdorf.
It’s best to start in the morning, while the heat is still bearable, with the short dinosaur hike in Muthmannsdorf. When the midday heat sets in, escape to the shade of the Johannesbachklamm gorge to cool your feet in the cold water. Or, around noon, head to the Emmerberg castle ruins under the shelter of the forest.
Toward evening, when your stomach starts to growl, you don’t have to drive back to Vienna on an empty stomach. The region around Winzendorf and Muthmannsdorf is home to wonderfully rustic wine taverns. An ice-cold spritzer, a hearty platter of cold cuts and cheese, and the view of the Hohe Wand—a summer day could hardly end any better.
