Kolm

In his own words, Chef Michael Kolm loves ‘seasoning Walviertel with the world’. He is definitely no stranger to the exotic and boldly combines foreign ingredients with Waldviertel traditions. At restaurant Kolm, Michael Kolm always succeeds to surprise his guests with inspiring and imaginative culinary creations, made with products from all over the world. On the menu, expect clever dishes such as crispy pork belly with calamari, rice with meat from Alpine oxen served with fried prawns and chili sauce, and white-poppy panna cotta with apricots and a croissant. The wine list is equally impressive and includes the best indigenous grape varieties that Austria has to offer. Expect exquisite vintage wines from Austria, as well as fine beers from the private Zwettl brewery or the Weitra Bräu beer workshop. You can also opt for wonderful spirits that are produced by the Roggenhof, Waldviertel’s number one whiskey distillery.

A nearby forest, Bärenwald Forest, offers a species-appropriate habitat to a small group of brown bears rescued by animal rights groups from the worst possible conditions because of an initiative pioneered by Michael Kolm's father, Gerhard. A truly idyllic setting, Arbesbach is nestled at the southern end of the Waldviertel highlands and features a gentle hill country and colorful meadows. Fans of outdoor sports will find excellent opportunities here, including extensive hiking trails, ski trails, cycling routes, and mountain-bike trails.