European Protected Area Lower Steyr and Enns Valley

The Lower Steyr and Enns Valley European Protected Area extends around the city of Steyr. In addition to the extensive riparian forests along the Steyr River, which are also protected in the Untere Steyr and Unterhimmler Au nature reserves, parts of the Enns Valley are also integrated into the larger European Protected Area. While the Enns is subject to heavy human intervention due to the impoundment areas of several power stations, the Steyr can still flow quite freely in this area. With its characteristic gravel banks, framed by willows, the Lower Steyr is a valuable green and recreational area in the immediate vicinity of the city. A popular walk through this natural landscape begins at the Kruglwehr car park below the pilgrimage site of Christkindl. Although the gravel banks are a popular excursion destination for those seeking relaxation, rare bird species such as the black woodpecker, kingfisher, dipper and grey wagtail live and breed here. The European nature reserve continues after the Steyr flows into the Enns and encompasses the entire river landscape in the municipalities of Garsten, Sierning and Steyr as well as further on via Kronstorf to Enns. The Steyrtal cycle path and the Enns cycle path offer good opportunities to experience this natural area in a sporty way.