Ostrong, Großer Peilstein

With two peaks and magnificent views, the Ostrong mountain range in the southern Waldviertel is one of the most popular hiking areas in the region. The densely forested low mountain range starts at the Danube - and stretches all the way to Yspertal and Weitental. There are several routes ranging from easy to challenging, making it ideal for hikers of all ages. The highest points are the two peaks: the Kleine Peilstein stretches 1,024 meters into the air, the Große Peilstein reaches 1,061 meters - making it the highest peak in the "Donauwaldviertel".

Particularly exciting for children: the Ostrong is the subject of many a legend, which the adults are sure to enjoy telling during the excursion. You can also follow in the footsteps of the monarchy here: It is said that Emperor Franz I himself had the route of today's Kaiserweg trail laid out.

Location
Southern Waldviertel, in the Yspertal valley

Hiking tips on and around the Ostrong

The Peilstein-Yspertal hiking trail no. 33 is particularly scenic: it leads past the summit cross of the Kleiner Peilstein and directly up to the Großer Peilstein - with breathtaking views over the Danube valley and the Alps.
The easy Laimbach circular hiking trail - which is particularly suitable for inexperienced and small feet - does not lead up to the Ostrong, but offers a great view of its highest peak.
The challenging Peilstein Summit Experience Laimbach tour leads to the summit cross of the Kleiner Peilstein.

Legends from the Ostrong mountain range

Children's ears prick up when the legend of the giant fish is told: It is said to live inside the mountain in a strange lake - and occasionally strikes the rocks with its golden-scaled tail. Then it thunders all over the Yspertal. Another legend is about the mermaid from Ostrong: it is said that a poor young craftsman was helped by a beautiful woman during a thunderstorm on the mountain. He married her. However, she always went into the forest when the moon was full. He became suspicious and followed her - and saw her turn into a mermaid. However, because he had seen this, she was unable to return to him. And another legend awaits at Ostrong: Ysper Castle is said to have once stood at the summit between Münichreith and Yspertal. Today, however, there is nothing at all to be seen of this mysterious aristocratic residence.