Natura 2000 on the Lower Traun

Your water. Our region. The Lower Traun between Traunfall and Lambach is a European bird sanctuary – and your gateway to nature, culture and adventure.

European Bird Sanctuary

The Lower Traun is protected as a Natura 2000 site under European law. Across 12 river kilometres stretches one of Upper Austria's most valuable river ecosystems – with pristine riverbanks, floodplain forests and crystal-clear water.

As operators of TraunXperience, protecting this unique habitat is close to our hearts. Our tours are designed to experience nature without disturbing it. Slow tourism means: paddle quietly, observe, marvel.

Aerial view of the Lower Traun with floodplain forests and natural riverbanks

Flora & Fauna

Kingfisher perched on a branch by the Traun

Kingfisher

The "flying jewel" – flagship species of the reserve. With luck, spotted while paddling.

Beautiful demoiselle damselfly by the Traun

Demoiselle Damselfly

The beautiful demoiselle indicates the exceptional water quality of the Traun.

Common sandpiper on the gravel banks of the Traun

Common Sandpiper

Breeds on the gravel banks of the Traun – please keep your distance!

Two young mallard ducks resting by the Traun riverbank

Mallard Ducks

Constant companions on the Traun – frequently spotted along the entire route.

Historic salt warehouses in Stadl-Paura

Cultural History on the River

Since the Middle Ages, the Traun was one of Austria's most important trade routes. "White gold" – salt from the Salzkammergut – was transported downstream on flat-bottomed boats called Zillen. The salt warehouses in Stadl-Paura still bear witness to this heritage today.

Historic shipping on the Traun shaped the entire region. The Traun Falls were once a feared obstacle for the boatmen – today they are an impressive natural spectacle and the starting point of our tours.

Points of Interest Along the Way

Schiffleutmuseum Stadl-Paura – history of Traun shipping

Schiffleutmuseum Stadl-Paura

Housed in one of the oldest buildings in Stadl-Paura – the birthplace of Abbot Maximilian Pagl. The history of Traun shipping brought to life.

May–Oct, Sun & holidays 2–4 pm · Adults €8

schifferverein.at →

Historic salt warehouses in Stadl-Paura on the Traun

Salt Warehouses

The salt warehouses in Stadl-Paura were an important hub for "white gold" from the Salzkammergut, connected to the salt shipping on the Traun since 1311.

Holy Trinity Church Stadl-Paura – baroque masterpiece by Prunner

Holy Trinity Church

The pilgrimage church of Stadl-Paura is a baroque masterpiece (1714–1724, by Prunner). A symbol of the Holy Trinity: three gates, three altars, three organs.

On the Way of St. James

The Traun lies along the Austrian Way of St. James – a connection that perfectly fits our philosophy. Slow tourism means taking your time, consciously absorbing your surroundings and savouring the moment.

Whether on foot or on the water: the Lower Traun is a place of deceleration. Pilgrims and paddlers share the same path – only the medium is different.

On the Way of St. James – boat tour through the Traun Gorge near Stadl-Paura
Lambach Benedictine Abbey seen from the Traun river

Lambach Benedictine Abbey

Lambach Benedictine Abbey has stood above the Traun for over 950 years. It is one of the most significant monasteries in Upper Austria – with Romanesque frescoes, a baroque abbey church and an impressive abbey theatre.

For groups, we offer a combination tour: paddling on the Traun followed by a visit to the abbey. Culture and nature in one day.

Request combo tour for groups →

Our Route

Map of the Lower Traun showing tour routes from Traunfall to Stadl-Paura

12 km tour route: Traunfall → Traun Gorge → Stadl-Paura

Meeting point on Google Maps →

Experience this region from the water

The Lower Traun awaits you – whether alone, as a couple, with friends or as a group. Choose your equipment and off you go.

View our tours →