Lake Neusiedl

Lake Neusiedler is the 4th largest lake in Europe (315 square kilometers). Most of it is located in Austria, only 13% belongs to Hungary, where it is called Ferte. It is included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. Under the lake there is its "twin" – an underground lake, exactly copying the outlines of the surface.

According to scientists, the salt lake was formed more than 20 thousand years ago. The lake is shallow, with a maximum depth of only 1.8 m. It has dried almost completely several times. To the south-east of the lake there are salt marsh steppes, in which there are nature reserves and national parks in both Austrian and Hungarian territories. There are limestone hills to the west of the lake. The area is quite wooded, and the variety of plant species, including rare ones, will impress any biologist.

Flora and fauna of Lake Neusiedler

The shape of the lake cannot be called correct – it stretches from south to north. The shore of the lake is heavily indented, forming many bays. Reeds cover most of the surface of the reservoir. The abundance of fish attracts many fishermen, but you need to get a special permit for fishing. There are carp, pike, loaches, walleye. There are more than 15 species in total. There are more than 300 species of different birds nesting on the lake, among them there are quite rare ones – harrier, hawks, goose duck, herons, white-tailed eagle. Ornithologists are constantly monitoring them.

Students and faculty at the University of Vienna have created highly popular "open-air laboratories." The main theme of the work is lake rescue. Their efforts were not in vain – in 1993, the Neusiedler-Seewinkel National Park was opened here. On the Hungarian side, protected areas have also been created around the lake.

Tourism

Lake Neusiedler has long attracted thousands of tourists from Austria and around the world. Since it is shallow, the water in it warms up quickly, there are practically no currents, and it is safe to swim in it. Some are interested in the magnificent local natural landscapes, flora and fauna of the lake, fishing and well-equipped beaches, while others prefer active recreation. They can rent boats and surfboards. Windsurfing and sailing on the lake are very popular. In winter, tourists are attracted by surfing on the ice. Those who wish can use the services of instructors.

Near Lake Neusiedler, Przewalski's horses are bred in a special center. A riding school is open here. Instructors are happy to teach everyone. Tourists often spend time in the reeds – it's so interesting to watch birds. To get around, you can rent bicycles or go horseback riding. There are many hotels near the park. One of the largest resorts is the town of Neusiedl am See, located in the north of the lake. There are many boarding houses, good cafes, and most importantly, a wide, well–maintained beach. Tourists stay not only in coastal towns, but also in hotels located right in national parks. The well-maintained beaches on the lake are mostly grassy, most often located near towns.