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About Austria National Parks National Parks

Austria’s national parks epitomize the country’s diverse natural landscapes and rich biodiversity. With six national parks spread across the nation, each park showcases Austria’s stunning alpine scenery, pristine forests, and unique ecosystems.

From the majestic peaks of the Hohe Tauern National Park to the tranquil waters of Neusiedler See-Seewinkel National Park, Austria’s national parks offer visitors a wealth of opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration. These protected areas provide habitats for a wide array of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species such as the ibex and the golden eagle.

Visitors to Austria’s national parks can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, wildlife watching, and nature photography, while also learning about the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. Austria’s national parks serve as vital sanctuaries for nature and play a crucial role in preserving the country’s natural heritage for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

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Austria National Parks's National Parks

Danube-Auen National Park

Danube Auen National Park

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Gesause National Park

Gesause National Park

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Hohe Tauern stream through valley

Hohe Tauern National Park

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Kalkalpen National Park mystic clouds

Kalkalpen National Park

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Neusiedler See-Seewinkel

Neusiedler see Seewinkel

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Nock Mountains

Nockberg National Park

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Hardegg Castle in Thayatal

Thayatal National Park

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FAQ’s

1. How many national parks are there in Austria?

Austria boasts six national parks, each showcasing the country’s diverse landscapes and biodiversity. These national parks are spread across various regions of Austria, from the eastern lowlands to the rugged alpine terrain of the west.

They encompass a range of ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, and grasslands, providing habitats for a wide array of plant and animal species. Austria’s national parks offer visitors opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, wildlife watching, and nature photography, while also serving as centers for environmental education and research.

These protected areas play a crucial role in conserving Austria’s natural heritage and promoting sustainable tourism practices. The national parks of Austria are valuable assets that contribute to the country’s reputation as a destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

2. What is the largest national park in Austria?

The largest national park in Austria is Hohe Tauern National Park (Nationalpark Hohe Tauern). Located in the Austrian Alps, Hohe Tauern National Park spans an impressive area of approximately 1,856 square kilometers (about 717 square miles).

It is one of the largest protected areas in Europe and encompasses a vast and diverse landscape of high alpine peaks, glaciers, valleys, forests, and alpine meadows. The park is renowned for its stunning scenery, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage.

It is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species such as the Alpine ibex, golden eagle, and bearded vulture.

Hohe Tauern National Park offers visitors a range of recreational activities, including hiking, mountaineering, wildlife watching, and nature photography, providing opportunities to experience the beauty and wilderness of the Austrian Alps.

3. What is the smallest national park in Austria?

The smallest national park in Austria is Thayatal National Park (Nationalpark Thayatal). Thayatal National Park is located in the northeastern part of Austria, along the border with the Czech Republic.

It covers an area of approximately 13 square kilometers (about 5 square miles). Despite its small size, Thayatal National Park is significant for its unique landscape of deep river valleys, rocky cliffs, and lush forests along the Thaya River.

The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare plant species and birdlife. Visitors to Thayatal National Park can explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy birdwatching opportunities, and learn about the park’s natural and cultural heritage at visitor centers and educational facilities.

Thayatal National Park provides a peaceful retreat and a haven for nature lovers seeking to experience the beauty of Austria’s northeastern landscapes.

4. What was the first national park in Austria?

The first national park in Austria is Hohe Tauern National Park (Nationalpark Hohe Tauern). Established in 1981, Hohe Tauern National Park is located in the Austrian Alps and encompasses an area of approximately 1,856 square kilometers (about 717 square miles).

It is one of the largest protected areas in Europe and showcases the stunning alpine landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage of the region. Hohe Tauern National Park is home to towering peaks, glaciers, valleys, forests, and alpine meadows, providing habitats for a variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species such as the Alpine ibex and golden eagle.

As Austria’s first national park, Hohe Tauern National Park serves as a flagship conservation area, promoting the preservation of the country’s natural heritage and providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, research, and education.