The Lake Edlesberg is a tranquil natural gem in the southern Waldviertel region and is located just a few minutes' drive from the vacation apartments Gutenbrunn . Nestled among forests, meadows, and marshes, the landscape has an almost Scandinavian feel. Overhanging pine trees, tranquil shores, and the reddish-shimmering water make the lake a special destination for guests who want to enjoy nature away from the hustle and bustle.
Whether for a short outing, an easy hike, a relaxing break by the water, or a peaceful photo walk: Lake Edlesberg can be easily incorporated into a day of your vacation. Its short distance from our lodging makes it especially convenient. From the Gutenbrunn 133 vacation apartments, it’s about 1.85 kilometers to the starting point of the lake-forest trail.
Edlesberger Lake at a Glance
- Location: Edlesberg at Martinsberg, near Gutenbrunn
- Distance from the Gutenbrunn 133 vacation rentals: approximately 1.85 kilometers
- Character: natural peat-and-iron swimming lake
- Water area: approximately 14 hectares
- Elevation: just under 900 meters
- Special features: reddish-tinged water, pine trees, forest, marshy areas, and a historic pine cone shed
- Activities: Walking, hiking, swimming, nature observation, and fishing with a valid fishing license
- Dogs: Welcome, according to the official tour description
- Hiking Trail: Lake-Forest Trail No. 21
- Difficulty: easy
- Length: 4.30 kilometers
- Walking time: about 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Ascent and descent: about 22 meters in elevation each
Why Lake Edlesberg is so special
Lake Edlesberg is quite different from a heavily developed swimming lake. Large sections of the shore are left in their natural state and surrounded by forests, meadows, and wetlands. This gives the landscape a peaceful, unspoiled feel, almost like a small lake in Scandinavia.
The reddish-brown color of the water is striking. According to Waldviertel Tourismus, it is caused by natural pigments from the surrounding wet meadows and by iron-rich rock. This distinctive color is therefore a natural feature of this peat-iron lake.
Depending on the light, the season, and the weather, the lake changes its appearance. In the morning, there is often a particularly serene atmosphere over the water. When the sun is shining, the surrounding trees are reflected on the surface, while on cloudy days, the dark colors of the forest and the marsh appear especially intense.
A historic floodplain pond in the Weinsberg Forest
Lake Edlesberg is not only scenic but also a testament to the region’s forestry history. It was formerly used as a reservoir for timber rafting. The dammed-up water helped transport felled timber further downstream along the waterways.
The historic Zapfenhaus by the lake still serves as a reminder of that era today. It is one of the defining landmarks of Lake Edlesberg and illustrates how closely water management, forestry, and the region’s development were intertwined.
Today, the focus is no longer on the log drive, but on experiencing nature. The lake is a peaceful retreat for hikers, swimmers, anglers, and anyone who wants to spend a few hours enjoying the Waldviertel countryside.
Lake-Forest Trail No. 21
If you'd like to actively explore Lake Edlesberg and the surrounding Weinsberg Forest, you can take Lake-Forest Trail No. 21. The loop trail begins and ends at Lake Edlesberg, House No. 15.
The official route data lists a length of 4.30 kilometers, a walking time of approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, and an elevation gain and loss of 22 meters each. The lowest point is around 871 meters, and the highest is about 893 meters. The downloadable GPX file also shows a distance of just under 4.3 kilometers.
The trail first runs along the lake for a short distance and then enters the Weinsberg Forest. Two gentle inclines add a bit of variety without making the hike unnecessarily strenuous. Along the way, hikers will come across the granite boulders typical of the region. Several benches invite you to take a break.
On the eastern bank stands the seating sculpture „Schwemmen.“ Several hiking trails intersect here, including the Kremstalweg and the Ysper-Weitental Circular Hiking Trail. The sculpture is a lovely spot to pause for a moment and reflect on the landscape’s historical connection to log driving.
Note on Route Information
The description on the official tour page still occasionally lists an older distance of 3.6 kilometers. However, the current tour data and the official GPX route show a distance of approximately 4.30 kilometers. We therefore recommend that you plan your time based on 4.30 kilometers.
Is the Lake-Forest Trail suitable for older guests?
With its short walking time, minimal elevation changes, and „easy“ difficulty rating, the Lake-Forest Trail is well-suited for many older guests who are sure-footed. However, it’s important to realistically assess your own fitness level and allow enough time for breaks.
Part of the trail runs along forest and nature trails. After rain, some sections may be damp, soft, or slippery. Sturdy shoes with good traction are therefore recommended. Hiking poles can provide additional safety.
The loop trail should not automatically be considered a barrier-free should be taken into account. For people in wheelchairs, using walkers, or with more severe mobility issues, accessibility depends heavily on the condition of the path and the specific section of the lakeshore chosen. Anna and Herbert are happy to help their guests choose a shorter route that’s best suited to their individual needs for a visit to the lake.
Swimming in Lake Edlesberg
On warm summer days, Lake Edlesberg offers a natural way to cool off. Waldviertel Tourism describes it as a moor-and-iron swimming lake and recommends a swim as a refreshing way to end a hike.
Since this is not a fully developed beach area, guests should expect a natural shoreline. Water shoes, a towel, and a seat pad may come in handy. Before swimming, it is advisable to check the local guidelines and current conditions at the lake.
The reddish color of the water is a natural feature of the lake. It is caused by substances from the surrounding wet meadows and by iron-rich rock.
Fishing and Nature Observation
Lake Edlesberg is also well-known among anglers. According to the official visitor guide, fishing is permitted year-round with a valid fishing license. Anyone wishing to fish should check in advance for the current regulations, permits, and conditions.
Those who prefer observing to fishing will find numerous quiet spots around the lake. Especially during the quieter times of day, you can spot waterfowl, insects, and the unique plant life of the wet shoreline areas. Please stay on the designated trails, take your trash with you, and respect the sensitive natural areas.
A Trip to Lake Edlesberg with Your Dog
According to the official description, dogs are welcome at Edlesberger See. For a relaxing outing, however, we recommend bringing a leash, water, and a drinking bowl. It’s especially important to be considerate of other visitors, fishermen, and wildlife in the quiet forest and lakeside areas.
What should you bring?
If you're planning a visit to Lake Edlesberg, we recommend:
- sturdy shoes with good tread
- enough water
- a small snack
- Sun and Rain Protection
- a charged cell phone
- In the summer, a towel and flip-flops
- hiking poles, if needed
- Insect Screen
- a small trash bag for your own trash
Since places to eat and opening hours may vary depending on the season, it’s especially handy to bring a small snack. Please also check the current weather conditions before you set out.
A short drive from the Gutenbrunn vacation rentals
The Gutenbrunn 133 vacation rentals are an ideal starting point for a trip to Lake Edlesberg. The estimated distance by road to the starting point of the lake-forest trail is about 1.85 kilometers, and the drive takes only a few minutes.
This proximity also makes the lake an attractive destination for a spontaneous outing. Visitors can combine their visit with a short hike, simply take a stroll along the shore, or come at a quiet time of day to take photos and relax.
GPS Coordinates for Directions
- Gutenbrunn 133 Vacation Rentals: 48.368830° N, 15.124330° E
- Lake Ednesberger: 48.380278° N, 15.108056° E
- Ednesberger Lake in degrees: 48°22′49.0″ N, 15°06′29.0″ E
- Starting point of Lake-Forest Trail No. 21: 48.377852° N, 15.109153° E
Our Take on Lake Edlesberg
Lake Edlesberg is an ideal destination for anyone who wants to discover the tranquil side of the Waldviertel. The reddish-shimmering water, the overhanging pine trees, the historical connection to log driving, and the easy lakeside forest trail combine to create a diverse nature experience without a long drive.
For guests staying at the Gutenbrunn vacation apartments, the lake is especially convenient: It’s very close by and can be easily incorporated into your day—whether as a short outing or a brief hike. Anyone who appreciates peace and quiet, forests, and water should definitely visit Lake Edlesberg during their stay.
Book a vacation rental in Gutenbrunn directly
Would you like to explore Lake Edlesberg, the Weinsberg Forest, and other attractions in the southern Waldviertel? Our vacation rentals offer peace and quiet, plenty of space, and personalized service from Anna and Herbert.
You can book your vacation rental directly with us here:
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