Vienna’s local mountains are often very crowded on weekends. So we’ve found a natural retreat for you, as it’s fortunately just an hour’s drive from Vienna. It’s the Czech Podyjí National Park, which begins right on the border with Austria.
Although it is the smallest of its kind in the Czech Republic with an area of 63 square kilometers , it offers tremendous geographical diversity. Due to its historical location directly on the Iron Curtain, the entire area was strictly sealed off for decades. The Thaya (Dyje) river valley was therefore able to develop undisturbed, so that today nearly 40 kilometers of intact river meanders await you.
Steep rock faces and rare animal species
You ’ll hike through dense, green forests and look down into gorges up to 220 meters deep. Because the local microclimate is extremely mild, heat-loving plants and animals thrive here. With a little luck, for example, you can spot green lizards and rare butterflies on the dry slopes.
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For a leisurely break, head to the Sealsfieldův kámen viewpoint, which offers a sweeping view of the green valley. You can also look up at the sky and spot black storks circling overhead. Furthermore, the well-marked trails lead you right past historic sites such as the Nový Hrádek castle ruins.
Top-quality wines right along the hiking trail
Those looking for a treat for the palate after all that walking will also find what they’re looking for, though you won’t have to leave the expansive nature reserve to do so. Instead , the famous Šobes vineyard lies right in the middle of the park, often ranked by connoisseurs as one of Europe’s finest wine-growing regions. The area benefits from its sunny south-facing slope, which allows the grapes to ripen perfectly.
The white wine produced here is particularly delicious and can be tasted right at the vine in the summer. If you explore the area in winter, be prepared for snow and cold temperatures. There are also other highlights in the surrounding area, such as the Baroque Vranov nad Dyjí Castle, which towers directly above the water.
Thus, this cross-border region—which on our side seamlessly transitions into the Thayatal National Park —combines rugged nature with authentic history and cuisine. That’s why a short trip here is well worth it for both seasoned hikers and leisurely cyclists.
🌲 Podyjí National Park (Národní park Podyjí)
📍 Address: Znojmo (Znaim) and surrounding area, Czech Republic
💶 Admission: Free
⏰ Hours: Open year-round (the visitor center in Znojmo has separate hours)
