Thayarunde Waldviertel - 3. Etappe

During the Thayarunde’s winter closure (approximately November through March), maintenance and upkeep work is carried out on a regular basis. This may result in temporary closures of individual sections of the trail. For your own safety, please be sure to observe these closures.

From the main square in Slavonice, head toward the train station. After passing the large storage yard, the Thayarunde Bike Trail begins, and after a short detour, you’ll reach the old railroad tracks. The tracks from Slavonice to Fratres were dismantled after 1945 to seal the Iron Curtain completely. Once you arrive in Fratres, you’ll see the old brick kiln and tanning facility on your right, where the famous bandit leader Grasel once stayed. We recommend visiting the Humanum Museum or stopping for a break at Casa Angelina. After a refreshing ride through the forest, you’ll reach Gilgenberg, where St. Ägidius Church and the castle offer a worthwhile change of scenery. Your next stop is Waldkirchen. The station grounds are steeped in railway history. Old railcars from the turn of the century, the boiler house, and the station itself are particularly well-suited as photo opportunities. The “Gemeindestüberl” inn is a great spot to take a break.

Continuing on to Dobersberg brings you back to the meandering Thaya Valley. The route’s information center is located at the Dobersberg train station, where you can also gain historical insight into cycling tourism and the route’s history (opening in fall 2017). The fire department museum, the castle, the church, and—above all—the nature park are all worth exploring. The route continues past the Merkengersch and Edlitz stops all the way to Thaya. Just before reaching Thaya, you can admire the first iron-arch railway bridge over the Thaya River, built in 1903. At the Haidl Inn, there’s a flood-filled cellar just waiting to be explored by boat. The local history museum, a campground, or the river swimming area invite you to stay a while longer. Austria’s only “Slow Baker,” Bäcker Kasses, awaits you with fresh baked goods.

On a flat stretch, follow the course of the Thaya River past the Kleineberharts stop to Waidhofen. Here you have the opportunity to visit the Streicher inn in Vestenötting, which features a lovely outdoor dining area next to Thaya Castle. Waidhofen stands out for its commitment to the bald ibis, and their aviary is practically right along the trail. The main square, protected by charming townhouses and city walls, is also a must-see. The town’s cultural life is well-established, featuring a theater, a folk club, an arthouse cinema, and festive events.