Ottenstein Reservoir

Water sports and hiking in the Ottenstein Reservoir recreational area

The reservoir was created in the 1950s and is 4.5 square kilometers in size. It has become a popular leisure-time destination in the Waldviertel thanks to its many sports and recreational activities.

Ottenstein is the furthest upstream and also the largest of the three reservoirs along the Kamp River. It offers landscapes of striking beauty and a host of popular recreational activities. The deep inlets along the lake shore are reminiscent of Scandinavian fjords, a land form that is not really typically Austrian. They are part of the special charm of this region around Ottenstein Reservoir.

Big choice of sports and recreational activities

The wooded banks of the Ottenstein Reservoir are perfect for hiking and walking. A number of cycling, hiking and horse-back riding paths run along the lake, inviting you to explore this countryside. If you prefer a refreshing dip in the lake instead, there are plenty of idyllic spots on one of the numerous bays and sunbathing lawns to swim and relax. 

Many of these secluded places are difficult to reach from shore but readily accessible by boat. You can rent electric boats, paddle boats or rowboats at the boat rental next to Seerestaurant Ottenstein. If you prefer not to navigate the boat yourself, you may want to take a relaxing 30-minute boat tour of the lake.

Besides swimming, other water sports are becoming increasingly popular at the lake. Boats2Sail offers a variety of courses for everyone from novices to experts and also rents out the required surfing and sailing equipment.

The Ottenstein Reservoir is well-known for its abundance of fish. Pike, carp, perch, zander, tench and trout splash about in the water there. Fishing licenses are available from the Ottenstein Forestry Office (phone: +43 2988 6530) and from the Niedernondorf farm and forestry operation (phone: +43 2826 7578).