Burgenland

INTRODUCTION

Burgenland is one of Austria’s most tempting destinations. Wide open spaces, idyllic rolling vineyard hills, Lake Neusiedl – a paradise for water sport and a unique nature preserve, imposing fortress and castles are impressions of Austria’s most easterly provice. 300 days of sunshine per year yield high-quality agricultural products, in particular wine of international fame. Hidden deep under the earth’s surface is Austria’s most abundant source of mineral water as well as geothermal hot spring that feed places of relaxation and convalescence with therapeutic water. One third of the land is a nature preserve and provides an ideal environment for harmonious nature holiday retreats. There are 2.500 km of bike path, 1.300 km of horse riding trails, and three golf courses that offer exceptional athletic enjoyment. A versatile assortment of cultural events stems from the rich multi-cultural traditions of Austria that also inspired the composers Joseph Haydn and Franz Liszt.

1. INFORMATION

1.1. Location, numbers and facts

- Location: southeast of Austria (ANNEX 1)

- Area: 3,965 km²

- Inhabitants: approx. 280.000

- Capital: Eisenstadt(population approx. 13.200)

- Administrative division:

• 2 Statutarstädte(towns with a charter)

• 7 Districts(Neusiedl am See, Eisenstadt-Umgebung, Matlersburg, Oberpullendorf, Oberwart, Güssing, Jennersdorf

- Ethnicity: 88% German-speaking, 7% Burgenland Croatian, 2,5% Burgenland Hungarian, Romani

- Borders Lower Austria and Styria as well as Hungary, Slovakia and Slovenia

- Includes the foothills of the central Alps (Leitha, Rosalien, and Güsser mountain ranges). The Leitha Mountains continue into the Hungarian Steppe

- Mild climate throughout the year with continental and Pannonian influences. The north is tempered by Lake Neusiedl (320 km², most westerly and Europe’s second largest steppe lake).

1.2. Directions

How to reach?

By plane – Nearby international airport are located in Vienna, Bratislava, Graz and Maribor. If you happen to own your own sports plane, you will like the fact that there is a small military and hobbyist airport next to Güssing in Punnitz, which is usable throughout the year. For bigger machines you will need to consider Maribor.

By train – Regional lines pass through from Styria and Lower Austria. Wiener Neustadt especially is a good train hub for northern Burgenland. If you want to go to southern Burgenland, you might prefer the destination “Fürstenfeld” to Jennersdorf and then take the local Bus to the desired village. There are many train stations in Burgenland, you can search Detsche Bahn website for timetables.