If, during your stay in Gutenbrunn once really Breathe deeply then Bärnkopf a perfect destination for a relaxing day or half-day trip. The village lies in the middle of the Weinsberg Forest, the largest closed forest area in Austria, and is one of the most 1,000 meters above sea level the highest municipality in the Waldviertel. Bärnkopf also bears the title „climatic health resort“ - and that's exactly how it feels: clear, calm, green.
Why you should visit Bärnkopf
1) Because it slows down there immediately
Bärnkopf is not a noisy tourist hubbub - but a place for everyone who appreciates nature, tranquillity, forest paths and fresh air. Ideal for switching off, going for a walk, leisurely hiking or simply „looking into the greenery“.
2) Because the Schlesinger pond is a real summer highlight
The Schlesinger pond attracts many bathers in the summer months - with a sunbathing lawn, WC, beach volleyball court and a kiosk (open when the pool is open). There is also a round 1 km long circular route with fitness stations and information boards - perfect for a short, leisurely walk.
3) Because the Opfersteinweg is a particularly harmonious hike
The Opfersteinweg (No. 62) leads past the Schlesingerteich and on through the forest to impressive rock formations - the „sacrificial stones“. And best of all: in summer, you can combine the hike with a dip in the pond.
4) Because the Woodchipper Museum brings history to life
If you want to understand the Waldviertel better, you should visit the Woodchipper Museum Bärnkopf stop by: It's all about life and work in the forest - particularly exciting in combination with a walk around the village. Visits/guided tours are possible all year round by appointment.
Our suggestion for your perfect Bärnkopf excursion
Relaxed„ variant (approx. 2-3 hours):
- Walk/short round on Schlesinger pond
- Break on the sunbathing lawn or a short stop at the kiosk (if open)
Active„ variant (half-day excursion):
- Opfersteinweg hiking (No. 62)
- Afterwards: Cooling down at the Schlesinger pond
Nature + culture„ variant (ideal for mixed weather):
- Schlesingerteich circuit
- Afterwards Wood chipper museum (against advance reservation)
Practical tips for your planning
- Swimsuit & towel pack (almost always worth it in summer).
- For walks/hikes: sturdy shoes, in the forest it can also be slippery after rain.
- Please as always in nature: Take your garbage back with you and consideration for other guests.
Further blog articles on our website
If you would like more details in advance - we have prepared our own articles on this subject or linked them here for you:
- Schlesinger pond in Bärnkopf (bathing, circular route, equipment)
- Opfersteinweg Bärnkopf (Hiking highlight with rock formations)
- Woodchipper Museum Bärnkopf (Regional history & guided tours)
