Wienerwaldsee

The Wienerwaldsee is a shallow reservoir created in the late 19th century by damming the Wienfluss. It lies 20 kilometres west of Vienna, between Tullnerbach and Neu-Purkersdorf, just north of the West Autobahn. The lake fills a valley behind the dam, which was built between 1895 and 1897. The surrounding area is protected as a nature conservation zone and water protection area. Activities like swimming and ice skating are not allowed, which helps preserve the habitat. The lake has become an important site for wildlife, supporting a wide range of plants and animals. On the northern shore, near the weir, stands a statue of Wilhelm Kress, an early aviation pioneer. Kress tested seaplanes on the lake, but one of his prototypes sank after hitting debris. The Western Railway runs along the northern shore, offering views of the water from passing trains. Visitors find a quiet stretch of water bordered by wooded hills. The statue of Wilhelm Kress marks a spot where aviation history was made. The lake’s protected status keeps it free from crowds, making it a peaceful place to walk or watch birds. The long railway line on the northern side adds a touch of movement to the stillness. The dam and weir are visible reminders of the lake’s origins in the 19th century.