By decision of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, the European Diploma for Protected Areas of the Council of Europe has been awarded to the National Park of Thayatal for the very “natural” state of the park, its biological components and the model co-operation on either side of the border with the Czech Podyjí National Park. The Austrian part of the National Park covers 1.360 ha, of which 1.231 ha are nature zones and 106 ha. are nature zones with management interference for the protection of ecosystems and 23 ha. are declared outer zone. The buffer zone comprises less than one hectare.

The Thayatal is an impressive valley with steep cliffs and gentle meadows, natural forests and a fascinating fauna. In places where economic interference has left its marks, where conifers were planted in inappropriate locations, the national park staff is trying to foster the growth of indigenous trees. Research is an important activity in national parks as it enables to gain insight on natural processes through long-term observation.