Vienna Woods and Mayerling Tour

Elope into the fairytale forests of the Vienna Woods for this morning tour and discover picture-postcard villages, visit the tragic Mayerling hunting lodge, explore magnificent monasteries and enjoy a sensational boat ride on the largest underground lake in Europe. This spellbinding excursion to the southern woods offers the perfect break from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Barely half an hour away from the capital, the Vienna Woods have for centuries offered a wonderful recreational space to Viennese. Pass by the beautiful spa town of Baden, which dates from Roman times. Its thermal springs have brought it the prosperity that paid for so many beautiful buildings. Continue your adventure through the scenic Helenental valley past the ruins of a medieval castle and towards Mayerling.

The royal hunting lodge at Mayerling was the scene of a tragic end to an affair that would have dramatic consequences for the Habsburg Empire and the history of Europe. It was here that the married Crown Prince Rudolf and his young lover were found dead in 1889. The empire lost its heir and his replacement would be assassinated 25 years later, sparking World War I. Visit the memorial chapel dedicated to their memories.

Head to the stunning Heiligenkreuz Abbey and tour the medieval cloister, which houses the remains of the last Babenberger, the dynasty that ruled before the Habsburgs. Cap off a marvellous morning with a boat cruise 60 metres below the ground on the Seegrotte, Europe’s largest subterranean lake.

Meeting/pick-up point: Hotel (please call 24 hours in advance to confirm), Sudtiroler Platz by the Wiedner Gurtel and Laxenburger Strasse intersection, and the Opera. Duration: Four hours
Start or opening time: 9.45am. Please be there 15 minutes in advance for Sudtiroler Platz and 30 minutes in advance for the Opera.
Languages: English, German, French, Italian and Spanish.

Assistance or guided tour

Admissions

At 9.45 am

Appropriate age for child ticket from 3 to 12 years