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: You can reach Fertö/Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape from Vienna by public transport in the following ways:
Where to stay: Here are some suggestions for places to stay in Austria:
Guide to the Hungarian side
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: You can reach Fertö/Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape from Vienna by public transport in the following ways:
- Train: There are several trains that run between Vienna and Eisenstadt, which is the nearest town to Fertö/Neusiedlersee. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and tickets can be purchased at Vienna Hauptbahnhof or online at OBB website.
- Bus: You can take a bus from Vienna to Eisenstadt, which is the nearest town to Fertö/Neusiedlersee. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and tickets can be purchased at Vienna Bus Station or online at Postbus website.
Where to stay: Here are some suggestions for places to stay in Austria:
- Rust: Rust is a beautiful historic town on the western shore of Lake Neusiedl, and is known for its charming old town and excellent wine. There are several hotels and guesthouses in Rust, ranging from budget options to luxury accommodation.
- Eisenstadt: Eisenstadt is the capital city of Burgenland, and is located just a short distance from Lake Neusiedl. It is home to many historic landmarks, including the beautiful Esterházy Palace. There are several hotels and guesthouses in Eisenstadt, as well as some holiday apartments and houses.
- Illmitz: Illmitz is a small town on the eastern shore of Lake Neusiedl, and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and excellent birdwatching opportunities. There are several guesthouses and holiday apartments in Illmitz, as well as some restaurants and cafes.
- Sankt Margarethen im Burgenland: Sankt Margarethen im Burgenland is a small town located just a short distance from Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape, and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and historic landmarks. There are several hotels and guesthouses in the area, as well as some holiday apartments and houses.
- Neusiedl am See: Neusiedl am See is a larger town located on the eastern shore of Lake Neusiedl, and is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts. There are several hotels and guesthouses in Neusiedl am See, as well as some holiday apartments and houses.
Guide to the Hungarian side