Gabrielental
Description
The Gabrielental in the upper Lainsitztal near Weitra delights visitors with its natural meadows, floodplains and mixed forests. Named after the Landgravine von Fürstenberg (1821-1895), the valley was lovingly landscaped by Oberamtmann Franz Weyringer in the 19th century. Today it is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers and families.
The Lainsitz still flows largely untouched here, with natural floods that create colorful meadows and diverse habitats. Rare animals such as the river pearl mussel, brook lamprey, otter, lynx, black stork and corncrake feel at home here. The near-natural mixed forests at Riesenkopf and Ahornstein, which are reminiscent of primeval forest relics in the Czech Republic, are particularly worth seeing.
Walking paths, footbridges, fountains and stone benches lead through the historic landscape park. Worth seeing are the memorial stone commemorating the wedding of Emperor Franz Josef I and Elisabeth, the stone pyramid "Carolinen Wiese 1865" and the wooden wayside shrine. A highlight in summer is the Kneipp facility in Weitra - two minutes in the ice-cold water has a refreshing and health-promoting effect.
Whether hiking, observing nature or relaxing walks: the Gabrielental offers a varied destination for the whole family.
