Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Nationalpark Neusiedler See-Seewinkel, established in 1993, encompasses one of Central Europe's largest endorheic lakes, Neusiedler See, and the surrounding Seewinkel region characterized by alkali steppe, salt marshes, reed beds, and shallow lakes. Located in the Austrian state of Burgenland near the Hungarian border, the park spans approximately 320 square kilometers and offers a rare blend of steppe and wetland ecosystems. It hosts a remarkable biodiversity, especially notable for bird species, making it a vital stopover for migratory birds along the East Atlantic flyway, with over 300 bird species recorded, including the globally threatened great bustard and the pygmy cormorant. The park's landscape features a mosaic of habitats such as salt meadows, reed belts, and shallow soda lakes, interspersed with scattered small villages and traditional vineyards. Visitors can explore well-marked hiking and cycling paths, go birdwatching at numerous hides, and enjoy boating and sailing on the lake during warmer months. Cultural heritage adds to the appeal with local wine culture, historic settlements, and traditional fishing methods still practiced. The park is internationally recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, emphasizing its global conservation significance. Visitors appreciate the tranquil, open landscapes where nature and cultural use coexist harmoniously, offering expansive views, rich wildlife encounters, and peaceful outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the year.
