Gänsegraben bei Burgschleiniz

The Gänsgraben near Burgschleinitz is a hidden natural gem on the eastern edge of the Waldviertel. The wild and romantic narrow valley with impressive granite formations, shady oak forests and rare dry grasslands offers hikers an unforgettable nature experience. Along the Schleinzbach stream, an idyllic hiking trail leads through one of the last intact natural zones between the Waldviertel and Weinviertel - far away from traffic and the hustle and bustle.

The narrow path from the moated castle of Burgschleinitz into the Gänsgraben is one of the most beautiful hiking routes in the region. The narrow valley was created by millions of years of erosion by the Schleinzbach stream, which has dug deep into the granite. Mighty rocks, cool forest air and the gentle murmur of the stream create an almost mystical atmosphere - particularly pleasant on hot summer days.

The Gänsgraben also has a lot to offer in terms of history: People settled around the Heidenstatt, an important archaeological site, over 7,000 years ago. Visitors to the Krahuletz Museum in Eggenburg can marvel at finds from this period. The Gänsgraben used to extend almost as far as Limberg, where hunters of the Mesolithic period killed bison and deer around 10,000 years ago.

Whether as a quiet Excursion destinations or a shady hike in summer - the Gänsgraben is a real highlight for nature lovers, hikers and history buffs in the eastern Waldviertel.