Vienna may be internationally renowned for its classical music and delicious food but there’s more to the Austrian capital than these two great facts. In terms of natural surroundings, Vienna has plenty to offer. Some of these are the lakes and rivers that provide people with a peaceful and relaxing environment while they’re on vacation.
A truly hidden gem you need to explore when in Austria is the Lake Neusiedl, the largest steppe lake in the European continent. This is surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards and boasts of bright turquoise water. This particular lake is popular not only among tourists but even among local residents. And why is this so? Because of the wide range of outdoor activities that can be done in the area among them bird watching, kite surfing, biking and hiking.
Lake Neusiedl is situated near the border between Austria and Hungary. It’s a perfect place to see some 300 different species of birds that live in the area all year round. The reason is that some parts of the area are wetland which means the lake has vast reed beds spanning five kilometers and these are what attract birds to the spot. One area of the lake famous for birdwatching is Seewinkel. It is also here where white donkeys, horses and grey cattle can be found.
But apart from being a wildlife sanctuary, this lake boasts of clear water that is of drinking quality. In fact, it has been considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001 not only due to its beautiful landscape but also because of its old villages that feature great architecture.
Lake Neusiedl is an ideal vacation spot particularly during the summer season because the water gets warm making it very ideal for swimming. This lake is easily accessible to visitors via buses and trains from the capital of Vienna. Car and bike rentals are also available.
