Take a Walk in Lainz Game Reserve

Another place where you can go for a walk in Vienna is the Lainz Game Reserve. 2,450 hectares of the unique cultural and natural landscape are available to anyone who would like to stretch legs, breathe fresh air, get away from the city noise. Dress warmly and enjoy a stroll through this beautiful area.

Why visit Lainzer Tiergarten in Vienna?

1. A huge natural escape near the city

The Lainzer Tiergarten spans about 2,450 ha (24.5 km²), much of it woodland. It provides a green, peaceful area for walking, relaxing, being in nature, a contrast to the urban bustle. You can find here many hiking routes, from short strolls to longer walks.

2. Wildlife & nature richness

The area is a protected nature reserve with free-roaming wildlife: deer, wild boars, mouflons, etc.

3. History and culture

The site was originally an imperial hunting ground (dating to 1561) and later turned into a public reserve. Inside the Tiergarten is the Hermesvilla (built 1882–1886, for Empress Elisabeth) a historic villa you can visit.

4. Scenic viewpoints

Scenic viewpoints like the Hubertuswarte tower offer panoramic views across Vienna and beyond.

6. Good for families, solo walkers, all ages

The reserve has playgrounds, nature trails, and is accessible for families. Even if you’re alone or just want a quiet walk, there are peaceful trails where you can go at your own pace.

7. Free admission

Tips for visiting:

Visit Hermesvilla

Wear comfortable shoes: many trails and forest paths.

Bring water / snacks: while there are restaurants, you’ll likely be out in nature for a while.

Respect the wildlife: keep distance, stay on trails.

Check the gates and opening hours (some parts may have seasonal access restrictions) and plan accordingly.

Hermesvilla

The Hermesvilla is a historic palace located in the heart of the Lainzer Tiergarten nature reserve on the outskirts of Vienna. It was built between 1882 and 1886 by order of Franz Joseph I for his wife Empress Elisabeth of Austria (also known as “Sisi”), with the aim of creating a peaceful and beautiful retreat—what he called a “castle of dreams”.

The name “Hermesvilla” comes from a marble statue of the Greek god Hermes (“Hermes der Wächter” – “Hermes the Guardian”) that stands in the garden.

The Empress’s gymnasium (yes, she exercised!) and a special riding corridor were part of the estate: because Sisi loved horseback riding, the surrounding meadows were flattened and cleared so she could ride more easily.

The villa was a gift from Franz Joseph to Sisi in an effort to encourage her to stay closer to Vienna, rather than constantly travelling.

Sisi did use the villa, though perhaps not as frequently as her husband might have hoped. The couple stayed there each spring for a few days to a few weeks until her assassination in 1898.

After the end of the Habsburg monarchy, the building’s status changed over time: it fell into neglect after WWII, underwent major restoration between 1968–1974, and is now managed by the Wien Museum as a museum and exhibition venue.

photo by @djtdsdad (IG)

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