How about a sweet treat after a relaxing walk? We are standing in front of the famous Oberlaa cafe. This is not just any cafe. It is an integral part of Vienna’s Kurpark Oberlaa.
Oberlaa boasts a rich history intertwined with relaxation and recreation. The area transformed significantly when Vienna hosted the International Garden Show in 1974. This event created a large green space. It adjoined the gardens of the Oberlaa health resort.
Thermal sulphur springs were discovered here in the 18th century. Oberlaa became known as a place to “take the waters.” The 1974 Garden Show was designed by international landscape gardeners. They created show gardens within an extensive park landscape. The park features meandering paths and lines. It has gardens for children and the elderly.
Today Kurpark Oberlaa is a major recreation area for residents. The famous Oberlaa cafe and cake shop are very popular. But there is much more to Oberlaa.
Oberlaa is near the new southern terminus of the U1 U-Bahn line. It opened on September 2, 2017. Before that, the tram line 67 ended here. The U-Bahn extension included a storage and inspection hall for trains. It also added a park-and-ride facility for commuters.
My travel guide tells me that Kurzentrum Wien-Oberlaa opened in 1974. It describes it as a spa treatment establishment. The park has attractions that date back to that year. These include a sculpture and a Japanese garden.
Oberlaa has one of the strongest and hottest sulfur springs in Austria. The sulfur smell is noticeable as you exit the U-Bahn station. Oberlaa quickly established a park and a famous patisserie. These are essential to any Kurort.
The park offers paved paths and benches. It has flowerbeds and tamed bodies of water. Visitors can enjoy a petting zoo and different kinds of gardens. There is even an allergy garden.
A Kur is a stay at a place with special springs for medical treatments. It is often prescribed for physiotherapy or feeling run down. The national health system covers much of the cost.
A Kurort is a town with such an establishment. A Kurpark is a park attached to it. A Kurkonditorei is a patisserie associated with it. Austrians enjoy the pleasures of life. They don’t deny themselves treats if they can help it.
So, let’s step inside Oberlaa. Let’s savor a delicious pastry and coffee. We will embrace the Viennese way of life.