National Park Thayatal, National park in Lower Austria, Austria

Thayatal National Park is a 13.3 km² protected area along the Thaya River on the Austrian-Czech border, adjoining the Czech Podyjí National Park. The river forms deep meanders through steep, forested slopes; the highest point is the gneiss Umlaufberg, a hill encircled by the river. The park includes the town of Hardegg, Hardegg Castle and the Kaja ruin.

The protected area was officially established in 2000 after a hydroelectric power plant project threatened the valley. Legislation passed in 1997 ultimately enabled the protection of this transboundary natural space.

The area takes its name from the Thaya River, which forms the border between Austria and the Czech Republic here. Locals and visitors use the trails to explore both countries and experience the transnational landscape.

The visitor center in the valley offers maps and information for hikes and wildlife observation points. Good footwear is essential, as steep hillsides can be slippery and the trails are demanding.

After the Iron Curtain fell, moose and wildcats that had vanished from Austria were sighted again in the Thaya valley. The park's 250 ha core zone is certified WILDForest by the European Wilderness Society, and 2 km of the Thaya are certified WILDRiver.