The former floodplain pond is fed directly from the adjacent bog, giving the water a deep black color. Since the dark bog water warms up quickly in the sun, the pond offers a pleasant temperature for a swim surrounded by nature. Thanks to the surrounding forest, however, it stays pleasantly cool even in the height of summer, and this spot is still a real hidden gem!
Natural swimming fun and stand-up paddleboarding
The sunbathing areas at the edge of the dense forest provide shade. In addition to restrooms and changing rooms, there’s a sandy beach for kids, a barbecue area, and a small pond-side snack bar for a down-to-earth snack.
Plus, when the weather is nice starting in May, you can rent a board daily between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. SUP rentals cost €8 per hour and don’t require a reservation, since there are 4 stand-up paddleboards available on-site.
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Historic timber rafting route and imperial firewood trails
Before the site became a recreational area, however, it served a very different purpose for the region. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, lumberjacks used the body of water as a log-floating pond, from which the felled timber could be transported away. Previously, firewood was even floated from here all the way to Vienna, giving the site a direct historical connection to the capital’s history.
After you’ve gone for a swim, it’s worth making a quick detour to the local pond snack bar. There you’ll find a small woodcutter’s museum with historical tools, while a replica section of the old drift canal vividly illustrates the hard work of those days.
The pond is just a short walk through the woods. Dog owners are allowed to bring their four-legged friends on a leash, but dogs are strictly prohibited in the water.
📍 Location: Stierhübelteich (Karlstift, Lower Austria)
🚗 Distance: About 2 hours from Vienna
🎟️ Admission: Free
🚣 SUP Rental: €8 per hour (starting May 1, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. in good weather)
🐕 Dogs: Allowed on a leash (no swimming allowed)
