Fertö / Neusiedlersee
Cultural Landscape
Shared Listing: Austria and Hungary
Date of Inscription: 2001
Selection Criteria: (v) to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change.
Overview: Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the eastern part of Austria and western part of Hungary. It covers an area of about 800 square kilometers and includes the Fertö Lake, which is the second largest steppe lake in Europe. The landscape has been shaped by the interaction of human activities and natural processes for over eight millennia.
Prominent Features: The site is characterized by a unique blend of natural and cultural elements, including traditional farming practices, vineyards, and the use of the lake for fishing and transportation. The Fertö Lake is an important bird habitat and is home to over 340 species of birds, including many migratory species. The site also includes several historical monuments, such as the Esterházy Palace, which was the residence of the powerful Esterházy family and is now a museum.
Fun Fact: The Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape is home to the Hungarian grey cattle, a rare breed of cattle that is only found in Hungary and Austria. The cattle are well adapted to the harsh local climate and have been an important part of the traditional agricultural practices in the region.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape.
How to reach it: From Budapest, you can reach Fertö/Neusiedlersee by public transport as well. The most convenient option is to take a direct train from Budapest Keleti station to Sopron station, which is the closest train station to the Fertö/Neusiedlersee area. The journey takes approximately 2-2.5 hours, and there are several trains departing from Budapest Keleti station daily.
Once you arrive at Sopron station, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the Fertö/Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape. The journey takes around 30 minutes by bus and 20 minutes by taxi.
Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Budapest to Sopron, which takes approximately 2-2.5 hours as well. From the Sopron bus station, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the cultural landscape area.
Where to stay: There are several towns on the Hungarian side of Fertö/Neusiedlersee where you can stay, depending on your preferences and budget:
Date of Inscription: 2001
Selection Criteria: (v) to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change.
Overview: Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the eastern part of Austria and western part of Hungary. It covers an area of about 800 square kilometers and includes the Fertö Lake, which is the second largest steppe lake in Europe. The landscape has been shaped by the interaction of human activities and natural processes for over eight millennia.
Prominent Features: The site is characterized by a unique blend of natural and cultural elements, including traditional farming practices, vineyards, and the use of the lake for fishing and transportation. The Fertö Lake is an important bird habitat and is home to over 340 species of birds, including many migratory species. The site also includes several historical monuments, such as the Esterházy Palace, which was the residence of the powerful Esterházy family and is now a museum.
Fun Fact: The Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape is home to the Hungarian grey cattle, a rare breed of cattle that is only found in Hungary and Austria. The cattle are well adapted to the harsh local climate and have been an important part of the traditional agricultural practices in the region.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape.
How to reach it: From Budapest, you can reach Fertö/Neusiedlersee by public transport as well. The most convenient option is to take a direct train from Budapest Keleti station to Sopron station, which is the closest train station to the Fertö/Neusiedlersee area. The journey takes approximately 2-2.5 hours, and there are several trains departing from Budapest Keleti station daily.
Once you arrive at Sopron station, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the Fertö/Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape. The journey takes around 30 minutes by bus and 20 minutes by taxi.
Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Budapest to Sopron, which takes approximately 2-2.5 hours as well. From the Sopron bus station, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the cultural landscape area.
Where to stay: There are several towns on the Hungarian side of Fertö/Neusiedlersee where you can stay, depending on your preferences and budget:
- Sopron: This historic town is located at the foot of the Alps and is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. It's only a short drive or train ride from Fertö/Neusiedlersee and offers plenty of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to upscale hotels.
- Fertőrákos: This small village is located on the northern shore of the lake and is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. There are several guesthouses and B&Bs in the area that offer a comfortable and authentic Hungarian experience.
- Hegykő: This charming town is located on the eastern shore of the lake and is known for its thermal baths and spa resorts. It's a great place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the surrounding area.