Jägersteig im Kamptalwald

The Jägersteig trail in the Kamptalwald forest near Zwettl Abbey leads through one of the quietest and most pristine landscapes in the Waldviertel. Rare, near-natural hillside forests grow here between the Neumühle mill and the monastery, with mighty lime, oak, beech, fir and maple trees that have thrived undisturbed for decades. Some of these old stands are under special protection and are allowed to develop completely freely. If you hike along the Jägersteig trail, you will experience what a real natural forest looks like: diverse, lively and full of tranquillity.

Natural forests can be recognized by their diversity, old and young trees, dense canopy and the interplay of light and shade. Standing and lying deadwood provides a habitat for insects and birds and strengthens the forest's natural resistance to storms and drought. Around Zwettl Abbey, a start was made early on to transform monocultures into species-rich mixed forests. Today, the abbey forests are a healthy, diverse and particularly atmospheric landscape in which the course of nature is consciously allowed to take its course.

Anyone walking along the Jägersteig trail immediately senses this special atmosphere: the scent of damp moss, the rustling of leaves, the play of light between ancient giant trees. In this sublime tranquillity, it is easy to pause and let nature take effect on you. A walk here is more than just a hike - it is an invitation to contemplate.

Tip: Combine the Jägersteig with a visit to the Zwettl Cistercian Abbey. The monastery with its Gothic church and Romanesque-Gothic cloister is an impressive destination for culture and nature lovers alike.