Discover Hoheneich

Hoheneich combines an impressive pilgrimage history with a varied pond landscape in the Waldviertel. Those planning a trip combining culture, nature and active exploration will find a range of options for planning their days here. When looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home in Hoheneich, you can therefore consider whether your trip should focus more on sacred art, paths along the water, a cycling tour or time spent at the bathing pond.

Church and pilgrimage in Hoheneich

A defining cultural landmark is the Parish and Pilgrimage Church of the Immaculate Conception. The late Baroque central-plan building was constructed by Andreas Zach in 1776–78. Inside, the high altar dates from around 1780 and includes a statue of the Virgin Mary and Child from around 1480/90. A miracle door dating from 1621 complements the historic furnishings.

The pilgrimage tradition is also part of Hoheneich’s history. At this pilgrimage site, the miracle of Count Kollonitsch’s conversion in 1621 plays a central role. The pilgrimage tradition was particularly associated with annual celebrations on the Feast of the Nativity of Mary on 8 September. Those interested in church art, religious history and historic sites can take this focus into account when planning their trip. In this way, accommodation in Hoheneich can be combined with a culturally oriented stay without missing out on nature experiences.

Ponds, moorland and paths along the water

The Hoheneich ponds form a pond landscape between Hoheneich and Pürbach in the Waldviertel. Paths run along larger and smaller bodies of water. The ponds were created in the 13th century through human intervention and today provide valuable habitats for rare plants and animals. They are also among Austria’s “Important Bird Areas”. Nature-loving travellers can therefore enjoy opportunities for observation and walks in which the landscape itself is the main focus.

The Mitterteich is a bathing pond surrounded by reeds and moorland. The Fischersteig offers another way to experience the landscape: the narrow path runs along the Braunaubach stream. After a small hill, it opens up to a view of Hoheneich and its church. These different walking and landscape impressions make it possible to tailor your stay according to your interests – with a cultural and historical destination, a route along the water or a view of the town.

Cycling and refreshments between May and September

The Mitterteichhütte is also relevant for planning an active day. It is located at a natural bathing pond in the middle of the Hoheneich forest, as well as along the Waldviertel cycle path and cycle path no. 73. Between May and September, the hut offers holidaymakers and locals chilled soft drinks as well as small cold and hot dishes. Those travelling by bicycle or wanting to include a break in their day can take this seasonal option into account when planning.

The choice of a holiday apartment in Hoheneich therefore depends above all on the desired mix of activities: the church and its furnishings appeal to visitors interested in culture, while the ponds, Fischersteig, bathing pond and cycle paths offer different highlights. If travelling with children or in a mixed group, you can spread different interests over several days and get to know Hoheneich from various perspectives.

Further places to consider when planning your trip

If you would like to compare other places in addition to Hoheneich, here is a compact selection: Moorbad Harbach, Kirchberg Am Walde, Gmünd, Haugschlag, Weitra, Heidenreichstein, Lauterbach, Waldenstein.

To the higher-level travel overview: Gmünd.