Rust, a small town on the western shore of Lake Neusiedl, is known for its idyllic old town, stork population and centuries-old wine culture. The historic town in Burgenland, also known as the "Free City of Rust", attracts many visitors every year who want to enjoy the unique flair of the town and the surrounding nature. Rust is also a popular starting point for exploring the area around Lake Neusiedl.
The city is one of the most beautiful and best preserved small towns in Austria. The old town Rust is characterized by historic town houses, many of them with ornate facades from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The charming, cobbled streets invite you to take a leisurely stroll while you admire the well-preserved architecture.
One of the most striking features of the city are the many storksthat nest on the roofs of the houses. In spring and summer you can watch the majestic birds gliding over the roofs of the city or staying in their nests. The stork has become the symbol of the city over the years and is omnipresent in Rust.
Rust has been known for centuries for its excellent wines, especially the Rust outbreak, a noble sweet dessert wine that is appreciated worldwide. The city is surrounded by vineyards and local winemakers are happy to invite visitors to wine tastings a.
Many wineries offer tours where you can learn more about winemaking in the region and taste the region's excellent wines. The place shines in a special light during the harvest time in autumn, when the grapes are picked and the wine cellars are full of life.
The Seebad Rust is a popular place for bathers and water sports enthusiasts. The outdoor pool offers spacious sunbathing lawns and a shallow entrance into Lake Neusiedl, which is ideal for families with children. In addition to swimming, you can also surfing, Sailing, stand-up paddling (SUP) and pedal boatingVarious rental stations on site offer the right equipment for every water sport.
From Rust, regular departures also take place boat tripsthat take you across the lake and into the neighboring national park. These trips are a great way to experience the beauty of the lake and its surroundings from a new perspective.
Rust is located on the edge of the Neusiedler See–Seewinkel National Park, a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers. The reed belts and the shallow waters of the lake provide a habitat for many rare bird species, which can be observed particularly well here. In addition to the storks that characterize the city, you can also discover various species of migratory birds and water birds.
The region is particularly interesting in spring and autumn, when thousands of birds stop at the lake on their way south or north. Guided tours through the national park offer you the opportunity to get to know the region's flora and fauna better.
The city also has a lot to offer in winter. When Lake Neusiedl freezes over, the region is transformed into a winter landscape. ice skating and walks on the frozen lake are popular activities in the cold season. The region's winemakers also offer tastings in the winter months, so you can enjoy regional wine all year round.