Dinner with a view:
The 8 most scenic picnic spots
As the first warm rays of sun kiss the earth, signalling the arrival of perfect picnic weather, one is drawn to the tranquil watersides or cosy forest clearings of Upper Austria. Here, we’ve curated the most splendid settings for an al fresco dining experience spread upon a blanket.
The concept of picnicking was popularised by none other than Queen Victoria. The British monarch enjoyed her meals in the open air, setting a trend that quickly swept across Europe in the 19th century. Interestingly, the term “picnic” derives from the French words “piquer” (to pick) and “nique” (small thing), suggesting a meal of small bites. Today, picnics often feature a range of finger foods — from classic sandwiches and antipasti to vegetable sticks, cupcakes and biscuits. In many regions, it’s possible to assemble a picnic basket filled with local specialities. In Upper Austria, we have unearthed the most picturesque spots for your dining pleasure.
01 Barge picnic on Lake Hallstatt
Imagine a basket overflowing with wine, cheese and local fare — this is what awaits with Navia Barge Cruises on Hallstätter Lake. Guests can enjoy themed excursions like moonlit cruises, lakeside breakfasts or the barge picnic, where they are provided with a picnic basket and left at a secluded lakeside spot to enjoy two hours of romantic solitude before being collected.
02 Picknic at the Schafferteich pond, Vorderstoder
Nestled within a breathtaking mountainous backdrop, the Schafferteich pond in Vorderstoder offers a tranquil and secluded setting. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around this idyllic natural swimming pond, perhaps taking a refreshing dip.
Not far away in Hinterstoder, take the Höss Express for a scenic ride into a prime hiking area. Here, at the Schafkogelsee reservoir, you can indulge in a scenic picnic, surrounded by the spectacular views of the Totes Gebirge.
03 Picnic on the Danube at the Schlögener Schlinge
The Schlögen Loop, a scenic 180-degree bend in the Danube River, is celebrated as one of Upper Austria’s iconic natural wonders. Riverresort Donauschlinge offers a unique barge picnic experience here. Accommodating up to five guests, with a picnic basket prepared for four, it’s an ideal setting for a family day out by the water.
04 Vitalwelt Bad Schallerbach - Picnic under cider trees
Spread out the fluffy blanket, put down the bulging picnic basket, take a deep breath and let the view take effect on you. Take a seat in the middle of the orchards and soak up this unique ambience.
Let the sun shine on your stomach and enjoy a romantic time together. Fine specialities and delicacies are already prepared in the picnic basket and a selected cider or juice is also included. This is the way to live.
05 Picnic in the ‘Unterhimmler Au’ nature reserve in Steyr
Whether in a meadow with fruit trees or right next to the crystal-clear waters of the Steyr: the Unterhimmler Au nature reserve is the perfect place for a picnic. Hearty food from local farmers tastes particularly good: for example, fresh goat's cheese from the Seyerlehner family in Wolfern or first-class sheep's cheese from Spirs in Kleinraming as well as meat and sausage specialities from the Eisenhuber family in Bad Hall! And when it comes to drinks, cider and natural juices from Steinbacher Natursäfte in Steinbach an der Steyr are a must!
06 Barbecue and picnic area in Wolfsegg with panoramic views
The ‘Schanze’ in Wolfsegg in the district of Vöcklabruck is a large recreational area with an exciting playground. In addition to park benches and tables, there is also a barbecue area (pre-booking at the municipal office). Located directly on footpath no. 7, you can combine a picnic with some exercise. Special tip: In fine weather, a fantastic panoramic view of the Salzkammergut awaits.
07 Picnic along the Feldaist, barbecue at the mill
Thurytal is the name of the Feldaist valley in the picturesque Mühlviertel. It stretches from Freistadt to the Neumühle mill in the district of Helbetschlag. Numerous sights can be found along the way: the Calvary Church towers majestically above the rocky slopes. The tower cross of St Anne's Chapel rises majestically on a rocky spur and looks down to the hammer mill. The old Herrenbad baths await visitors. The cave near the Bruckmühle can be visited without barriers. The Summerau railway crosses the river on a huge bridge and the fascinating water adventure park for children offers variety and fun. Doesn't that sound like perfect picnic conditions?
08 Grein - Picnic spots along the Donausteig
The Upper Austrian Danube town of Grein was once called the ‘Pearl of the Strudengau’ by poets. The three Donausteig rest areas here are perfect for a picnic. Ten minutes' walk from the centre, you can enjoy a great view of the Danube from the Calvary. A special feature there is the ‘Gallery in Granite’. The marvellous panoramic view also takes centre stage at the Gobelwarte. 300 metres from the town square is the Storchenblick. Nomen est omen - here you can see the stork's nest in Grein. Everyone should fill their own picnic basket and take it with them from home.
