Wachau World Heritage Site

Transcription

THE WACHAU:
A WORLD HERITAGE REGION
Tips, interesting facts and special features for your stay
in one of Europe's loveliest river valleys
www.welterbesteig.at
|
www.wachau.at
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www.wachau.at
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www.wachau.at
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VINEA WACHAU
KUNST UND KULTUR
Rund 200 Mitglieder engagieren
Lassen Sie sich begeistern
sich besonders für die Wachauer
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WACHAUER MARILLE
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und Ausstellungen. www.wachau.at
WELTKULTURERBE
WACHAU
APRICOT
UNESCO
WORLD HERITAGE REGION
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WORLD.CULTURE.HERITAGE.
CONTENTS
This brochure will accompany you as your special travel guide through the
Wachau World Heritage Region. Alongside interesting facts about wellknown locations, you will discover a wealth of valuable tips for pleasurable
hours and pleasant excursions.
4
Krems an der Donau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Wachau apricots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Dürnstein . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
The Wachau and its wines . . . . . . . 12
Weißenkirchen in der Wachau . . .14
Spitz an der Donau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Mühldorf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Wachau delicacies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Maria Laach am Jauerling . . . . . . . 24
Aggsbach Markt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
General map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Emmersdorf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Melk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Melk Abbey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Schönbühel-Aggsbach . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Bergern im Dunkelsteinerwald 38
Rossatz-Arnsdorf. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Mautern an der Donau . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Wachau traditional dress . . . . . . . 44
The joy of movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Göttweig Abbey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Wachau World Heritage Trail . . . 48
Good neighbours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Around the Wachau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Car-free travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Event tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
The Wachau ranks among the most famous and most beautiful natural and
cultural landscapes in the world. As early as 1955, it was declared a Landscape
Protection Area. In 1994, it was awarded the Council of Europe's Natural Conservation Diploma, and in 2000, admitted to UNESCO's World Heritage List.
The internationally renowned »National Geographic Traveler Magazine« even
chose it as 2008's »Best Historic Destination in the World«!
Allow yourself to fall under the spell of the
dramatic river landscape and the diverse
cultural offerings. Treat yourself to precious
moments in spots that inspire you to linger
a little longer. Become one with an eventful
history and an emotional present, with the
harmony of conservation and innovation.
Become one with a variety of culinary addresses. Awaiting you are the most beautiful
hotels, authentic private rooms, holiday relaxation on a wine estate, gourmet
cuisine of the highest order and traditional inn culture, all identified with the
»Best of Wachau« seal of quality.
This accolade is only bestowed upon businesses that make a commitment to
continually improve their quality and, in striving for improvement, don't forget
what it means to be from the Wachau. For the restaurateurs participating in
the »Best of Wachau« initiative, it is a heartfelt desire to transform their guests
into ambassadors for the Wachau, taking their impressions, experiences and
stories out into the wider world. | www.bestof-wachau.at
Whether you are travelling on foot, by bicycle, e-bike or boat: fascinating
insights open up everywhere – along with enchanting views of landscapes
that delight the heart and soul.
Have fun exploring the Wachau!
Sustainability ........ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
|
Wachau World Heritage Region
HERITAGE IN THE
RIVER OF TIME
WELCOME TO THE WACHAU!
If it is your first visit to the Wachau, simply soak up this work of art as a whole:
the winding river valley, the jagged rocks, the characteristic vineyards, the
expansive orchards, the monumental abbeys, castles and ruins, and all of the
picturesque spots. Appreciate richly contrasting nature extending over 33 km,
and cultural treasures bearing witness to a long history.
SUSTAINABLE NATURE PROJECTS
The Wachau is one of the oldest cultural landscapes in Austria and – alongside
the Danube Wetlands National Park – the only part of Austria in which the
Danube flows freely. This diverse river landscape combines residual wetlands
and dry grasslands with near-natural forests and a mosaic of vineyards and
orchards. All of this offers a habitat for many rare species of fauna and flora.
In order to save this unique landscape from crass interference and also to preserve it for future generations, on-going projects and project weeks contribute
to the cultivation and conservation of the region. UNESCO's Paris-based World
Heritage Centre recently declared the nature conservation project »Wachau
Volunteer« a »best practice example«.
LIFE NATURE-PROJECTS
Since 2003 and within the context of the LIFE Nature projects, countless cutoff meanders and tributaries have been reconnected to the Danube, and new
gravel islands and banks created. Numerous fish species have been given new
spawning grounds as a result. Endangered species, such as the kingfisher and
beaver, as well as dragonfly and amphibian species benefit from this linking up of
water bodies, as well as from the restoration of natural forest and dry grassland
areas. The LIFE Nature projects have developed into flagship projects for the
implementation of Natura 2000 goals throughout Europe.
www.life-wachau.at
INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTARY PROJECT »WACHAU VOLUNTEER«
Since 2010, Jauerling-Wachau Nature Park and the »Arbeitskreis Wachau«
have been organising international volunteering projects for the conservation
of the most valuable natural areas in the Wachau and for the cultivation of
traditional landscape elements. The nature conservation focus lies on the
cultivation and mowing of semi-dry and dry grasslands. These once extensively used vineyards, pasturelands and mown areas belong to the biodiversity
hotspots along the Danube and are in danger of becoming overgrown.
In 2009, »WachauVolunteer« was awarded the Natura 2000 prize by the province of Lower Austria, and is supported by the European Union, the Republic
of Austria and the province of Lower Austria. 2011 saw »Wachau Volunteer«
become the first Austrian volunteer project to be included in the »World Heritage Volunteers« campaign by UNESCO.
www.naturpark-jauerling.at
www.whvolunteers.org
|
5
KREMS AN DER DONAU
The twin towns of Krems-Stein are a dynamic cultural centre and university
town. In the old towns, which are part of UNESCO's Wachau World Heritage Site,
you can stroll through medieval cobbled lanes and discover romantic arcade
courtyards, pleasant cafés and many a cultural treasure.
Particularly worth a visit are the five frescoed ceilings by the famous »Kremser
Schmidt« in Krems Parish Church, the »Cathedral of the Wachau«. The oldest
sacred building in Krems still in use as a church is the late-Gothic Piarist Church
standing on a hill. It is considered the »little sister« of St. Stephen's Cathedral
in Vienna.
The Dominican Church today houses »museumkrems«, in which »Fanny vom
Galgenberg« is displayed, among other exhibits. The approx. 32,000-year-old
female figurine is deemed to be the oldest work of art in Austria. Remarkable
frescoes adorn the Gozzoburg. The early Gothic city palace was once home to
the town magistrate Gozzo. A landmark of Krems is the »Steiner Tor«, which is
the only one of the city's four gates to be preserved.
To the east of the historic centre is »Sandgrube 13 wein.sinn«, a wine adventure
world providing insights into the past and present of wine culture. The path from
Krems into the old town of Stein leads through the Krems Art Mile, which is
a rewarding stopping off point – not just for art fans.
TOURIST
INFORMATION
3500 Krems, Utzstraße 1
Tel 02732/82676
Mail [email protected]
www.krems.at | www.krems.info
PLEASURE TIPS
HOUSE OF THE REGIONS
Get to know one another, break down barriers: The House of the Regions – »Volkskultur Europa« at the Krems-Stein
Danube landing is a meeting point for regional folk cultures. With music, dance,
literature, folk art, culinary specialities
and the »Gallery of the Regions«, a shop
selling exclusive handicrafts.
Tel 02732/85015
www.volkskulturnoe.at/vkeuropa/
WEINGUT STADT KREMS (WINE ESTATE)
WINZER KREMS (WINEMAKERS)
With 550 years of history, one of the
oldest wine producers in Austria and
Europe.
A wine adventure tour at »Sandgrube 13
wein.sinn« – a meaningful journey into
the fascination of wine.
Tel 02732/80144
www.weingutstadtkrems.at
Tel 02732/85511 | www.sandgrube13.at
www.winzerkrems.at
6
|
CULTURE IN KREMS
All of the regions of Lower Austria have a varied and multifaceted arts and
culture scene. In this context, Krems as a »City of Culture« plays a special role.
Alongside the unique old town and numerous galleries, it is especially worth
paying a visit to the Krems Art Mile, with its two flagships of Kunsthalle Krems
and Krems Caricature Museum.
www.kunsthalle.at | www.karikaturmuseum.at
Die Kunstwerke der Artothek in Krems geben einen repräsentativen Einblick
in das Kunstschaffen seit 1945 mit Schwerpunkt Niederösterreich.
www.artothek.at
Contemporary art is also shown at Galerie Stadtpark in Krems.
EVENTS
A meeting point for lovers of literature is the »Unabhängige Literaturhaus«
(Independent Literature House) in Krems-Stein. | www.ulnoe.at
Other stops for art and culture in the immediate neighbourhood are the Susanne Wenger Archive, the »Kino im Kesselhaus« cinema at Danube University
Krems, House of the Regions, and '»NÖ Volkskultur«.
www.volkskulturnoe.at
KUNSTMEILE KREMS (KREMS ART MILE)
IMAGO DEI EASTER FESTIVAL
With timeless music originating
from different ethnicities, eras and
religions, the festival is dedicated
to a variety of themes connected
with the Easter ritual.
www.klangraum.at
DONAUFESTIVAL
Taking place on two weekends in
spring is Krems' international platform
for innovative music and performance
art. |
www.donaufestival.at
GLATT & VERKEHRT &
HERBSTZEITLOS
A diverse programme in attractive settings with musical voyages
of discovery around the globe. In
the autumn, Glatt&Verkehrt offers
an epilogue in the form of »Herbst
Zeitlos«.
www.glattundverkehrt.at
Cultural institutions of international standing and high-quality gastronomic offerings are brought together on the Krems Art Mile. The Caricature Museum in Krems
and Kunsthalle Krems – located directly at the Krems-Stein landing pier at the »Gate
to the Wachau« – always guarantee an exciting and entertaining art experience.
Under the new management of Florian Steininger and with established and
contemporary young positions, Kunsthalle Krems will in future promote an interdisciplinary, progressive and international orientation. Starting in 2017, the
Dominican Church in the old town of Krems will also be utilised as an exhibition
space for Kunsthalle Krems.
The Caricature Museum in Krems is Austria's only museum for caricatures,
pictorial satire, comics and cartoons. In addition to the permanent collection
of the celebrated Austrian caricaturist, Manfred Deix (1949–2016), the museum
displays changing exhibitions from renowned national and international caricaturists and illustrators.
Just 5 minutes walk from both exhibition sites lie Forum Frohner, the Ernst
Krenek Forum, and Klangraum Krems, as well as Galerie Göttlicher in the old
town of Stein. Starting in spring 2018, the Krems Art Mile will be enhanced with
a further exhibition site: Landesgalerie Niederösterreich (»Lower Austrian Provincial Gallery«).
www.kunsthalle.at | www.karikaturmuseum.at | www.lgnoe.at
INTERESTING FACTS
KREMSER SCHMIDT
SOUND ART IN KLANGRAUM
KREMS MINORITE CHURCH
The early Gothic Minorite church and
the chapter house are transformed
into unique acoustic sites by sound
art from internationally renowned
artists.
www.klangraum.at
Martin Johann Schmidt, known as
»Kremser Schmidt«, is undoubtedly the
only Baroque painter of international
calibre to come from Lower Austria. The
paintings by the artist, who was born in
1718 in Grafenwörth near Krems, are
characterised by an atmospheric chiaroscuro style.
Alongside frescoed ceilings, which can
be admired in the churches of Krems,
Dürnstein and Herzogenburg, as well
as on the imperial staircase of Göttweig
Abbey, Schmidt created countless altarpieces and devotional images.
www.kirchen-am-fluss.at
|
7
THE OLD TOWNS OF KREMS AND STEIN
While the old town of Krems retreats into the mountain slopes, Stein lies
directly on the river.
The wealth of the former port of Stein is still marvelled at today: richly embellished portals, bay windows and architectural treasures, such as the Göttweigerhof, the Minorite Church and the Parish Church. Visitors coming from
the Danube stroll across the town hall square past the Johannes Nepomuk
monument and the Baroque town hall, along Steiner Landstraße and, in turn,
past the Kunsthalle, the Caricature Museum and the monastery right through
to the Steiner Tor Gate. The only one of Krems' four city gates to be preserved,
it is decorated with inscriptions and coats of arms. It is here that the old town
of Krems begins with Upper and Lower Landstraße, which has served as the
city's principal axis since medieval times.
In the centre of Krems, directly adjacent to the
popular pedestrian zone in the old town – part
of the Wachau World Heritage Site – stands the
former Dominican Monastery on Körnermarkt.
Today it is here that »museumkrems«, the city's
museum, displays its extensive collections,
which include a selection of Wachau paintings,
three self-portraits by the artist Martin Johann
Schmidt, known as »Kremser Schmidt«, Wachau
ceramics, Krems town history and much more.
Also on display is »Fanny vom Galgenberg«, Austria's oldest female
figurine, the second-oldest in the world. Alongside this are selected archaeological findings and rarities. The museum's calendar is further enhanced by
special changing exhibitions of contemporary artists in the monks' former
bedrooms on the upper floor. An exhibition room is devoted to Krems mustard.
THE CHURCHES
Krems and Stein are treasure troves of sacral architecture. Largely constructed on medieval foundations, some of the churches reveal the aspirational
elegance of the Gothic period, such as the Piarist Church and the Bürgerspital
church, or Baroque gloss, such as the Krems Parish Church of St. Veit. Despite
its secularization, the Dominican Church retains much from the Romanic and
Gothic periods. It houses »museumkrems« and the provincial gallery »Zeit
Kunst Niederösterreich«. An insider tip is the early Gothic sacral chamber of
Göttweigerhof Chapel in Stein, the key to which is available from the tourist information office at Utzstraße 1. Hard to overlook is the Baroque Parish Church
of St. Nikolaus in Stein. A further tip is the early Gothic Matthias Chapel at
Förthof. The chapel belongs to the wine-growers of Förthof.
INTERESTING FACTS
KREMS MUSTARD
It is not often that the name of a town is
associated with a culinary product extending far beyond the region itself. Gourmets associate Krems an der Donau with
Krems wine and Krems mustard.
Museumkrems reveals several of the secrets of the sweet Krems mustard, how it
is made and what accounts for its special
taste. Even if the recipes themselves are
well-kept secrets. Rarities from the Peter
Hietzgern collection chronicle the mustard production and the »Original Krems
Mustard«.
Objects from the Mautner Markhof collection prove that »Original Krems Mustard« is today not only valued here in
Europe, but also in the USA, in Australia
and South Africa.
EVENT
ALLES MARILLE
(»IT’S ALL APRICOTS«)
Each year at the time of the apricot
harvest in July, the historic old town
of Krems devotes a two-day festival
of culinary pleasure and culture to
the EU-protected Wachau apricot.
Alongside apricot schnapps distilling, also on the programme are
traditional »Zistel« basket weaving,
jam preserving and world record attempts at baking the longest apricot
strudel – together with music, folk
dancing and a fashion show of traditional costumes. Parallel to this, the
Stein landing pier plays host to a »pub
village« that can be reached by slow
train from the old town.
www.alles-marille.at
The old barrels of »Original Krems Mustard« can today be seen alongside other
exhibits in museumkrems. A special exhibit has been devoted to Krems mustard.
Tel 02732/801-566,567,
[email protected]
www.museumkrems.at
8
|
WORLD HERITAGE CENTRE
The River Navigation and World Heritage Centre in Krems-Stein, directly on the
Danube, does not merely mark the entrance to the Wachau. Situated in front
of the architecturally interesting building is the World Heritage Visitor Centre,
which accommodates the ticket counter for BRANDNER cruises and DDSG
Blue Danube cruises. Furthermore, in the »Wellenspiel« restaurant, you can
dine on typical regional fare and purchase regional products and wines in the
gift shop. Selected wines from the Wachau and Kremstal Valley are to be found
in the wine store. |
www.wellenspiel.at
Information & Advice:
Krems tourist information office
3500 Krems | Utzstraße 1 | Mail [email protected]
www.krems.info
Opening times
Mon to Fri: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Sat: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sun and public holidays: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
RIVER CRUISES
At the River Navigation and World Heritage Centre in Krems, the Wachau and
its culinary delicacies can be enjoyed aboard the modernly designed »MS
Austria« of BRANDNER Schiffahrt on cruises as far as Melk. Stops en-route:
Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen, Spitz, Aggsbach (upon request), Emmersdorf. In
addition, passenger ship lines are also operated by DDSG.
www.brandner.at | www.ddsg-blue-danube.at
OUR RECOMMENDATION:
BEST OF WACHAU – BUSINESSES
THE BEST ADDRESSES FOR DINING AND OVERNIGHT STAYS
Restaurant Zum Kaiser von Österreich
Körnermarkt 9 | Tel 02732/86001 | www.kaiser-von-oesterreich.at
Hotel und Gasthof Klinglhuber ****
Wienerstraße 2 | Tel 02732/82143 | www.klinglhuber.com
Steigenberger Hotel & Spa ****S
Am Goldberg 2 | Tel 02732/71010 | www.krems.steigenberger.at
Café – Konditorei Hagmann
Untere Landstr. 8 | Tel 02732/83167 | www.wachauer-schokolade.at
arte Hotel Krems ****
Dr. Karl Dorrek-Str. 23 | Tel 02732/71123 | www.arte-hotel.at
Hotel »Unter den Linden« ***
Schillerstraße 5 | Tel 02732/82115 | www.udl.at
Weinhof Aufreiter
Krems-Angern, Dorfstraße 34 | Tel 02739/2205 | www.weinhof.at
|
9
THE WACHAU APRICOT PLEASURE REGION
Alongside its reputation as a
world class wine-growing region, the Wachau has also made
a name for itself as an orchard.
Since 2006, the sun-blessed cultural landscape also calls itself
the »Wachau apricot pleasure
region«. Pleasure is promised
by the EU-protected Wachau
apricot, especially during its
blossoming and harvesting period. Depending upon weather
conditions, some 100,000 apricot trees provide a spectacle
with the splendour of their pinkwhite blossom. The countdown
to their full floral display can be
followed every year via webcam
on www.wachau.at
Anyone wishing to savour the unique taste of the much-coveted Wachau apricot
is advised to visit during the harvest period in July.
Some 170 hectares of apricot orchards from 21 municipalities produce the
original Wachau apricot yield. The largest apricot-growing municipality in the
Wachau is Rossatz-Arnsdorf. Two-thirds of the harvest is sold directly from the
farm, the rest is processed into distillates, liqueurs, jams and juice.
Krems apricot farmer Harald Aufreiter takes care of the fragile fruits, and also
of the around 1,000 trees in his own apricot orchards. He only cultivates the
fruity old Wachau varieties such as the Krems Apricot or the Klosterneuburg
Apricot. While in Krems an entire festival takes place mid July under the slogan
»Alles Marille« (»it’s all apricots«) and the Spitz apricot festival or »Marillenkirtag« attracts thousands of visitors every year, in Krems-Angern a special
path leads to the fruit, through orchards and via small stopping-off points with
many interesting facts.
INTERESTING FACTS
When purchasing apricots and apricot products, it is worthwhile to buy
directly from the apricot farmers.
Here, you will receive the delicious
fruits and can also ask for information from the apricot farmers
themselves. You'll find them from
Emmersdorf to Gedersdorf and
from Melk through to Hollenburg.
»Genussregion« signs at the apricot farms and farm signs from the
»Wachau Apricot Association« identify authorised apricot farmers. If
you wish to plant a genuine Wachau
apricot tree, saplings are available
for purchase all year round from the
shop of Göttweig Abbey or at Hick
plant nursery in Weißenkirchen.
Irrespective of whether freshly plucked from the tree or in the guise of
succulent dumplings, cakes, strudels, jams, compotes, juice or schnapps:
the Wachau apricot is sure to make the mouth water.
Further information about the apricot pleasure region is to be found under:
www.marillen-genuss.at
More information about the special
quality of the Wachau apricot can
be found under:
10
|
DÜRNSTEIN
Visible from afar is the blue-white bell tower of Dürnstein. It belongs to the
church of the Augustinian Monastery. Since its dissolution at the end of the 18th
century, the monastery has been under the charge of Herzogenburg Monastery. Dürnstein looks back on a chequered history: The »Dogs of Kuenring«
dwelled here, the Poor Clares retreated into prayer at Dürnstein, Provost
Hieronymus Übelbacher covered the town and vineyards with Baroque excess,
and the Viennese painters of the Romantic period found their artistic subjects
here.
TOURIST
INFORMATION
3601 Dürnstein 25
Tel 02711/219
www.duernstein.at
The former monastery complex, the castle – now an elegant hotel – the
church of Kunigunde and the Pillory Square count among the cultural treasures
of Austrian architecture. Equally a cultural treasure is the story of the English
king, Richard the Lionhearted, who was imprisoned in what is today the ruined
castle above the town. Legend has it that he was freed upon payment of a ransom by his faithful minstrel, Blondl.
A detour to the wine cellars of the Wachau domain is rewarding. The interesting cellar tour ends with a good glass of wine in a magnificently restored
Baroque »Kellerschlössel«.
Particularly beautiful is the view of Dürnstein from the Danube. Anyone arriving
via the overland route is advised to travel to Dürnstein with the bike ferry, a
motorised barge, from Rossatz on the opposite bank.
PLEASURE TIPS
THE SLOW TRAIN
Wine experience trips through Dürnstein, the wine-growing villages of
Oberloiben and Unterloiben, across the
vineyards, via Loibenberg with its panoramic view of Göttweig Abbey. It is possible to organise wine tastings directly
on the mountain, as well as a special
programme for groups.
Tel 0676/512 48 25 | www.kuenringer.at
WACHAU SAFFRON IN LOIBEN
SCHMIDL BAKERY & CONFECTIONARY
Wachau saffron production and show garden in Unterloiben/Dürnstein. In addition to
the spice, Wachau saffron-red wine chocolate, saffron honey, saffron beer and saffron
vinegar are also available to be sampled and
purchased. | www.wachauer-safran.at
A traditional Wachau business, in which
the famous »Wachauer Laberl«, a round
bread roll made of rye and wheat flour,
was created in 1905.
Tel 02711/224
www.schmidl-duernstein.at
|
11
THE OLD TOWN OF DÜRNSTEIN
In the old town of Dürnstein, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture
form an incomparable, romantic ensemble. From the banks of the Danube and
the »Malerwinkel« (painters' corner) – where landscape painters used to set
up their easels in days gone by – through the »Traunergassl«, the path leads
uphill to the courtyard and church of the Augustian Monastery, a unique Baroque jewel. Past handsome town houses, the Pillory Square and the Church
of Kunigunde the path continues out through the »Steiner Tor«, from where
it is possible to stroll through the vineyards of Dürnstein and back to Loiben.
RIVERSIDE CHURCHES
The first convents along the Danube were founded in the 13th century. Dürnstein was home to the Convent of the Poor Clares (today part of the »Richard
Löwenherz« Hotel) and the Church of Kunigunde (the remains of which are
at the eastern town gate). In 1410, Augustinian Canons from Bohemia constructed Dürnstein Monastery, which was later extensively reconstructed in
Baroque style and, with its blue-white tower, has become the landmark of the
Wachau. A parish church is also to be found in Unterloiben, which can be reached
with the slow train.
WACHAU VINEYARD VIEW
Above Domäne Wachau on Dürnstein’s Kellerberg Mountain, situated directly
on the Wachau World Heritage Route, a picnic spot with a wonderful view over
Loiben and the Danube Valley has been created by a young designer from the
New Design University St. Pölten.
www.domaene-wachau.at
RICHARD THE LIONHEARTED
More insight into the life of Richard the Lionhearted is provided by a signposted
path, which leads from Dürnstein up to the ruin. Not a legend, but rather reality, is the fact that Duke Leopold V. received a generous ransom for the release
of the English king with which, among other things, the town of Wiener Neustadt in the south of Lower Austria was built.
FERRIES IN THE WACHAU
From Easter until mid October, a bike ferry connects Dürnstein with Rossatz.
Timetables can be found under www.faehre-wachau.at or Tel 0676/370 9633.
OUR RECOMMENDATION:
Restaurant Loibnerhof
Unterloiben 7 | Tel 02732/82890 | www.loibnerhof.at
Wachauerstube
Unterloiben 24 | Tel 02732/85950 | www.wachauerstube.at
Gartenhotel Pfeffel ****
Zur Himmelsstiege 122 | Tel 02711/206 | www.pfeffel.at
Hotel Richard Löwenherz****
Nr. 8 | Tel 02711/222 | www.richardloewenherz.at
Hotel Schloss Dürnstein *****
Nr. 2 | Tel 02711/212 | www.schloss.at
Bäckerei-Konfiserie Schmidl
Nr. 20-21 | Tel 02711/224 | www.schmidl-duernstein.at
EXCURSION TIP
CANOE AND STAND UP PADDLE
The Wachau can be appreciated
from a very special perspective when
»hiking« on the river itself. In this
way, it is possible to explore quiet
coves, isolated islands as well as tributaries of the Danube. Greg Wimmer
offers this experience either as part
of a canoe trip or by stand up paddleboarding – SUP for short. SUP is
a trendy new sporting discipline from
Hawaii, whereby a sense of balance
is developed and all of the body's
major muscle groups are strengthened. Which participants are eligible
for a river tour is up to the trainer’s
discretion. Beginners' courses are
conducted in nearby calm waters or
coves of the Danube.
www.kanu-wachau.at/sup/
12
|
THE WACHAU AND ITS WINES
Austria's most famous wine region owes its sophisticated and elegant white
wine not only to the great skill of the many winemakers, but also to the virtually ideal natural conditions. World-class wines are created in the special
climate and on the typical primary rock terraces.
The tradition of viticulture extends right back to the Roman settlement of the
Wachau. Its first golden age was experienced under Carolingian rule. In the Middle Ages, Wachau wines had already gained a reputation reaching far beyond
Austria's borders. Wines from Wachau – primarily the white wine varieties of
Riesling and Grüner Veltliner – today garner the highest accolades at national
and international wine tastings.
The winemakers' recipe for success? The combination of a love of innovation, utmost quality awareness and knowledge of the climate and terroir. Wachau winemakers today cultivate an area of vineyards amounting to some 1,390 hectares.
DOMÄNE WACHAU
The quality-conscious winemakers' cooperative rates as one of the ten best
white wine estates in Austria. Following strict guidelines, the members cultivate approx. 440 hectares or around 30 per cent of the wine-growing area
of the Wachau. The grapes come from the best vines. The wines, consistently
in the premium segment, also receive international recognition. The Domäne
Wachau estate in Dürnstein combines the modern with the historic. During an
approx. 1.5 hour guided tour with tastings, visitors are given insight into both
worlds: in the new wine cellars and the Baroque »Kellerschlössel« with its
underlying vaulted cellar.
Hieronymus Übelbacher proudly placed his »Lusthaus im Weinberg« amid
the vines. None other than the Baroque star architect Jakob Prandtauer designed the well-proportioned summer residence for the art-loving Provost of
Dürnstein. After its renovation, it again shines in dazzling white and yellow
against the green of the vine leaves and surprises on the inside with its opulent
wall design.
What was once an idyllic setting where the Provost could enjoy Wachau
wines and his precious collection of engravings and etchings with friends is,
with its climbing roses, open staircase, panorama terrace and Baroque front
lawn, an ideal location for wine tastings and weddings today.
www.domaene-wachau.at
SHOPPING TIPS
A good selection of wines from the Wachau is offered by the diverse vinotheques in which wine can also be tasted:
Vinothek Wein & Wachau, Melk
Tel 02752/54987 | www.weinundwachau.at
Vinothek IWB Fohringer, Spitz/Donau
Tel 02713/2029 | www.fohringer.at
Vinothek Thal Wachau, Weißenkirchen
Tel 02715/2600
Domäne Wachau, Dürnstein
Tel 02711/371-0 | www.domaene-wachau.at
Vinotake Dürnstein-Loiben
Tel 02711/80565
|
BUILT ON STONE
Many centuries ago, in order to be able to cultivate any wine at all on the steep slopes of
the Wachau, suitable areas were created, namely terraces that are protected from sliding
downhill by stone walls. Furthermore, the walls also act as heat reservoirs. In order to
guarantee the water supply and ventilation behind the terrace walls, these walls are even
today made of stones carefully placed one on top of the other and lend the landscape its
special character.
VINEA WACHAU NOBILIS DISTRICTUS
The »Vinea Wachau Nobilis Districtus« association is arguably the most prestigious
winemakers association in Austria. Numbering just 25 Wachau wine estates which vowed
the »celibacy of Wachau winegrowing« in the founding year of 1983, Vinea Wachau today
counts 200 members. For the clear positioning of Wachau wine, the winemakers not only
laid down strict geographic borders, but also a very clear definition of the Wachau style
of wine. »Steinfeder«, »Federspiel« and »Smaragd« have become terms familiar to every
lover of Austrian wines worldwide and are immediately associated with the Wachau. The
wines may only be produced by members of Vinea Wachau. They cultivate some 85 per
cent of the Wachau's wine-growing areas and are especially committed to the protection,
quality and reputation of Wachau wine. The Codex Wachau and the brands Steinfeder ®,
Federspiel® and Smaragd® stand for natural wine production, guaranteed origin and
strict voluntary controls.
www.vinea-wachau.at
STEINFEDER & CO
Steinfeder (English: stone feather) refers to the light, sparkling white wine with a maximum
11.5 % vol. alcohol. The name Steinfeder comes from a feather-light grass that grows in the
Wachau. Federspiel wines are somewhat more robust, with a maximum 12.5 % vol. alcohol.
The word »Federspiel« (English: feather game) has its origins in falconry and describes
the simulated prey that is intended to lure the falcons back to the hand of the falconer.
Smaragd (English: emerald) identifies those great, full-bodied wines that have an alcohol
content exceeding 12.5 % vol. They are named after the green-blue shimmering lizards or
»Smaragdeidechsen«, which feel especially at home in sun-soaked stone terraces.
MYWACHAU
Download the myWachau app on your mobile phone and discover which winemakers you can visit without making an appointment, which wine tavern or »Heuriger« is currently open and which name is given to the individual Wachau vineyards.
www.mywachau.at
TASTING, HIKING AND CELEBRATING
Throughout the year there are opportunities for stylish wine tastings, such as at the
various wine festivals, during »Weinfrühling« (wine spring) and »Weinherbst« (wine autumn), in the wine taverns and restaurants or directly at the wine estates themselves.
www.wachau.at
Countless beautiful hiking trails lead through the vineyards. Guided hikes are also on
offer.
13
14
|
WEISSENKIRCHEN IN DER WACHAU
TOURIST
INFORMATION
3610 Weißenkirchen, Wachaustraße 242
Tel 02715/2600
www.weissenkirchen-wachau.at
The picturesque wine-producing village has long had a special position. Weißenkirchen was once the centre of the »Magistrat Thal Wachau« (Wachau Valley
Municipal Administration) – the original Wachau, so to speak. A particularly
striking building in the town is the imposing fortified church, which towers over
the neat vintners' houses and harvesting complexes with its angular tower and
Gothic tiled roof, inclined at 60 degrees. Equally formidable is the view: From
the parapet of the church, the view extends far over the Danube Valley and the
locality with its expansive vineyards. Situated a little below the church, it is worth
paying a visit to Teisenhoferhof, which is an event venue and home to the gallery
in the Wachau Museum. Also belonging to Weißenkirchen are Joching, Wösendorf and St. Michael – names which are highly familiar to wine connoisseurs. It
is between Weißenkirchen and Joching, in the Ritzling vineyard, that the origin of
the Riesling vine lies – according to one version of the story. On the other hand,
it is certain that two winemakers from Weißenkirchen played a significant role
in the boom of Wachau winegrowing: pioneers Josef Jamek and Franz Prager.
Alongside Wilhelm Schwengler and Franz Hirtzberger, the two are also founding fathers of »Vinea Wachau«. The members of this association of winemakers
commit themselves to the promotion and conservation of Wachau viticulture
and to the fulfilment of the utmost quality criteria.
Also lying at the very top of the romantic spectrum is Wösendorf, with its sleepy
lanes. Although St. Michael only numbers 13 houses, it plays an important
historical role: founded in 987, the parish church was once the only one in the
region.
PLEASURE TIPS
WACHAU CHILLI
A multitude of home-grown chilli varieties
is available from Hick plant nursery in
Weißenkirchen, with 5 categories ranging
from »soft« through to »2hot«.
Tel 02715/2291 | www.hick-wachau.at
PRANDTAUERHOF
WIESER WACHAU
Pleasure of the highest order is offered
by the Holzapfel family in Joching: Prandtauerhof ranks among the leading wine
estates in the Wachau. Also of note is the
estate's own distillery, the fine brandies
of which win awards year upon year.
Tel 02715/2310 | www.holzapfel.at
The homemade schnapps and jams, fine
chocolate, Arabica coffee from the inhouse roastery and natural cosmetics
from Johanna and Markus Wieser are
successfully marketed throughout Europe.
Tel 02715/2544 | www.wieser-wachau.at
|
15
INTERESTING FACTS
THE HARES OF ST. MICHAEL
They can be seen by anyone who looks
closely. The »seven hares« on the roof
ridge of the fortified church of St. Michael
are an architectural curiosity.
If asked, the inhabitants of Wachau are
happy to tell the tale of the hares, which
took refuge on the church roof during
a snowy winter and could not get down
from there after the thaw.
But the »hares« do not look at all like
long-eared creatures – the original terra-
cotta ones are in the Weinstadtmuseum
(wine-growing town museum) in Krems.
They have also been called stags or
»steeds«. What some see as an homage
to the church donor, Siebenrössl, are
viewed by others as religious symbolism:
The persecution of Christ by henchmen,
who are represented by horses. Seen in
this light, the story of the rabbits in the
snow is perhaps more entertaining.
THE TEISENHOFERHOF
As part of the fortification of the church of Weißenkirchen, the courtyard was
expanded in 1542 with a Renaissance-style arcade courtyard and two towers.
Where once crossbowmen tried their skills is now home to the gallery in the
Wachau Museum. Over the past two centuries, the beauty of the region has been
discovered by painters such as Emil Strecker, Max Suppantschitsch and Johann
Nepomuk Geller. They have entered the pages of history as the Wachau painters.
FROM VINE TO VINE
A stroll through the vineyards is always rewarding, preferably accompanied by
a winegrower from Weißenkirchen. However the best views and insights are
nevertheless promised by the Wachau World Heritage Trail. Anyone who takes
the mountain path from Dürnstein in hiking boots will reach the famous vineyards of Klaus and Achleiten, two of the world's best sites for Grüner Veltliner
and Riesling. Further information on guided vineyard hikes in the Wachau can
be found under www.wachau-hiata.at.
During the tourist season, the drive-on cable ferry connects Weißenkirchen
to the historic fortified church of St. Lorenz on the south bank of the Wachau.
From here there is a wonderful, if somewhat strenuous, climb to the Seekopf
hill with observation tower on the Wachau World Heritage Trail.
GETTING MARRIED IN THE WACHAU
The legendary Councillor Geiger and his Mariandl did it, and many famous and
romantically-inclined pairs are happy to follow suit: getting married in the Wachau. The picturesque river valley has always held a magical attraction for lovers and those who wish to put the official seal on their love. This is especially
true in the spring, when the blossoms from thousands of fruit trees spread like
a bride's veil across the gardens and loess terraces. A particularly romantic
variant is a wedding ceremony set amid the vineyards – provided the »weather
god« plays along. A tried and tested wedding venue is Weitenberg vineyard in
Weißenkirchen. Also popular is the combination of festivities in the historic
Teisenhoferhof and a civil ceremony at Weißenkirchen registry office.
Tel 02715/2232-227
www.wachau.at/heiraten | www.weissenkirchen-wachau.at
PLEASURE TIP
WEISSENKIRCHEN RIESLING
FESTIVAL
Rieslings from the Wachau rank
among the best white wines in the
world. In Weißenkirchen, this is fittingly celebrated every August. The
traditional Riesling festival takes
place in the festive Renaissance
ambiance of the Teisenhoferhof.
Here, the best Rieslings from the
region can be tasted, appreciated
and purchased – a culinary and musical supporting programme completes the offer. | Tel 02715/2600
www.weissenkirchen-wachau.at
16
|
RIVERSIDE CHURCHES
The parish church of Weißenkirchen was one of the most important church
strongholds in Lower Austria, with its covered steps and the underlying Teisenhoferhof. It was constructed in the 13th century on a chapel dating from
the 11th century.
By way of contrast, Wösendorf Parish Church is an impressive Baroquestyle building with an altarpiece by Martin Johann Schmidt, also known as
»Kremser Schmidt«.
St. Michael ultimately ranks among the oldest church establishments in Austria. Mentioned for the first time in 987, the place of worship was long the only
parish church in the region. Likely to cause a few goose bumps is the »Schädelpietà« (skull pietà) on the altar table in the Gothic charnel house.
An insider tip for gourmets: The chapel built by Jakob Prandtauer at Prandtauerhof winery and restaurant in Joching.
INTERESTING FACTS
HARVESTING YARDS
OF THE WACHAU
In the Middle Ages, the economic
and cultural life in the Wachau was
largely shaped by its monasteries.
At the end of the 15th century, almost
three quarters of the Wachau's vineyards were owned by the church. In
order to press the wine, the monasteries constructed grand harvesting
yards. At that time, harvesting yards
were established by more than 50
monasteries. Many of these yards
house wineries until this present day.
OUR RECOMMENDATION:
Hofmeisterei Hirtzberger
Wösendorf, Hauptstraße 74 | Tel 02715/22931 | www.hofmeisterei.at
Restaurant Heinzle
Wachaustraße 280 | Tel 02715/2231 | www.heinzle.at/
Hotel-Restaurant Donauwirt ***
Wachaustraße 47 | Tel 02715/2247 | www.donauwirt.at
Hotel-Restaurant Kirchenwirt ****
Kremser Str. 17 | Tel 02715/2332 | www.kirchenwirt-wachau.at
Weingut Holzapfel – Prandtauerhof
Joching, Prandtauerplatz 36 | Tel 02715/2310 | www.holzapfel.at
Gästehaus »Turm Wachau«
Auf der Burg 140 | Tel 0664/2013850 | www.turm-wachau.at
Hotel Garni Donauhof ****
Donaugasse 298 | Tel 02715/2353 | www.hotel-donauhof.at
Hotel Weinquadrat ****
Landstraße 238 | Tel 02715/20008 | www.weinquadrat.at
Pension »Gästehaus Heller« ***
Kremser Straße 14 | 02715/2221 | www.gaestehaus-heller.at
Weingut und Ferienwohnung Pomaßl
Im Schild 175 | Tel 02711/286 | www.herbstzauber.at
|
17
SPITZ AN DER DONAU
Like a precious collar, Spitz encircles the Tausendeimerberg – a prominent vineyard in the middle of the village. Marktstraße Street snakes its way up from the
Danube, past harvesting yards, the Baroque Aggsteinerhof and old stone wells
until it reaches the parish church, with its characteristic kinked nave. A small
lane leads from Kirchenplatz to a town gate, the walls of which – as legend has
it – were coloured with blood in the battle with besiegers during the Thirty Year
War. Hence it was given the name »Rotes Tor« (red gate). Today it rates among
the most beautiful viewpoints in Spitz.
Situated not far from the late Gothic church of St. Mauritius is Spitz Castle. Its
Renaissance hall is a popular choice for events and weddings. Heading back
towards the Danube, the medieval town hall with its Gothic details stands at the
top of the main street. The Wachau railway runs through its inner courtyard.
Anyone wishing to discover more about Spitz should ask Hans Hamberger to
open up the historic merchant's shop or pay a visit to the innovatively designed
river navigation museum in Erlahof Castle.
Extending an invitation for an evening stroll is the Donaulände promenade in
Spitz, which has been enhanced with a new light concept by the artist Siegrun
Appelt. | www.siegrunappelt.com
TOURIST
INFORMATION
3620 Spitz, Mittergasse 3a
Tel 02713/2363
www.spitz-wachau.com
Still to be conquered are the ruins of Hinterhaus fortress. The view richly
rewards the climb up to the ruins on the local mountain. From here you can
go into the Spitzer Graben Valley or continue further south to Schwallenbach
with its distinctive little fortified church.
PLEASURE TIPS
HISTORIC MERCHANT'S SHOP
In the vaulted cellar of his house, Hans
Hamberger has recreated a general
store dating back to the first decade of
the 20th century, with old furnishings,
historic merchandise, documents and
advertising material from a traditional
Spitz trading house.
Guided tours upon request:
[email protected]
Tel 02713/2074
DER BUSCH
Wine and apricot specialities, as well as
products from the natural cosmetic range
»Die schöne Wachauerin«. Segway rental
with guided tours through the Wachau.
Tel 0676/6704776
www.derbusch.at
www.segway-wachau.at
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SPITZER GRABEN VALLEY
The Danube once flowed through the Spitzer Graben. This gentle valley along
the Spitzer Bach (Spitz stream) is thus the largest side valley in the Wachau.
The Wachau's steepest vineyard terraces are to be found in Gut am Steg, Viessling and Elsarn. At the top end of the valley lies Mühldorf, set amid a thriving
landscape of meadows and orchards. It is hard to believe that graphite was
once mined at the edge of this locality. Natural spectacles, such as the apricot
blossom, can today be admired there and many award-winning Grüne Veltliner,
Rieslinge and Neuburger wines sampled.
Tip: It is worthwhile filling a picnic bag with Wachau specialities and wines and
taking a break at one of the many beautiful spots.
RIVERSIDE CHURCHES
PLEASURE TIP
MARILLENKIRTAG
At the traditional Spitz »Marillenkirtag«, homage has been paid to
the Wachau apricot every summer
for more than 50 years. Visitors' palates are tantalised every July with
delicious apricot dumplings, fruity
apricot punch and the finest apricot
brandies. Among the programme's
highlights is the traditional procession of King Marillus and Princess
Aprikosia, which passes through the
locality and culminates in the awarding of the Golden Apricot. The festival
is brought to a close with folk dancing
and songs.
www.spitz-wachau.com
Art historians are still arguing about the »kink«. Indeed Austria only has eight
examples of such an axial kink in the nave of a church, and the one in Spitz
Parish Church is the most skewed. Dating back to the 14th century, the tower
and sacristy are the oldest structural components. The richly decorated nave
took a full two hundred years to build.
Tip: Look out for the famous »Christ and the twelve apostles« group of sculptured figurines, dating back to the Gothic period.
Also preserved is the Gothic style of the chapel in Schwallenbach, built in 1420.
It was only after the Thirty Years War broke out in Schwallenbach that the
church tower went up in flames. Subsequently, the pragmatic citizens of the
Wachau gave the new tower a »stone helmet« – as a form of fire protection.
Tip: The altarpiece of St. Sigismund was created by the famous »Kremser
Schmidt«. The key can be obtained from Walter Bergkirchner, opposite the
church. Here too, the nocturnal illumination has been designed by Siegrun
Appelt.
The car ferry in Spitz-Arnsdorf connects both banks of the Danube. If the
natural backdrop is not enough, a change of perspective can be gained with
a visit to the art installation by Olafur Eliasson in the ferry cabin: a camera
obscura that, like the cable ferry itself, works on the river current without any
electrical current. Since 2012, the River Navigation Museum in Spitz provides
information about ferries, their history and their importance for the Wachau
and its people.
A STRANGE TALE
THE WHITE LADY
OF HINTERHAUS FORTRESS
Over 600 years ago, Hinterhaus Fortress
was ruled by Heinrich »der Eiserne« (the
iron one) of Kuenring. He was as unfaithful to his wife, Adelheid, as he was faithful to serving his king. The former died
after a brief marriage and, two months
later, Heinrich married for a second
time – despite the fact that it was customary to wait a whole year in those
times. When Heinrich then also died
suddenly, it was seen as God's punishment for his deed. Ever since, a lady in
snow-white clothing appears at the window of the fortress ruins every year on
the night of Heinrich's death. According
to legend, this is the ghost of Adelheid,
who is unable to find peace because of
her husband's unfaithfulness and who
constantly wails: »Nit ein Jahr!« (Not
even a year!)
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19
RIVER NAVIGATION MUSEUM
The history of river navigation can be explored in the innovatively designed
River Navigation Museum in Erlahof Castle. A special place is given to the many
accurately reproduced and award-winning model ships.
www.schifffahrtsmuseum-spitz.at
ART IN PUBLIC SPACES
As is the case in many municipalities in the Wachau, a new flood protection system
has also been installed in Spitz. The stretch of meadow between the Donaulände
and the flood protection centre has been designed by artist Anita Leisz. Gottfried
Bechtold's »Spitz« project is a four-and-a-half meter high, narrow bronze cone,
which addresses the ordinary subject of an aesthetic symbol. Standing in the
park in front of the River Navigation Museum is a sculpture by Ulrich Rückriem.
More about the art in public spaces can be found under www.publicart.at
OUR RECOMMENDATION:
Gasthaus Mariandl
Kirchenplatz 2 | 02713/2376 | www.gasthaus-mariandl.at
Gasthaus Prankl – Altes Schiffmeisterhaus ***S
Hinterhaus 16 | Tel 02713/2323 | www.gasthaus-prankl.at
Café-Konditorei Bruckner
Hauptstraße 9 | Tel 02713/2329 | www.cafebruckner.at
Strandcafe
Donaulände 7 | Tel 02713/2320 | www.strandcafe-spitz.at
Barock-Landhof Burkhardt ****
Kremser Straße 19 | Tel 02713/2356 | www.burkhardt.at
Boutiquehotel »Das WeinSpitz«
In der Spitz 3 | Tel 02713/2644 | www.donabaum.at
Gästehaus Datzinger
Rote Torgasse 13a | Tel 02713/2493 | www.datzinger-spitz.at
Gästehaus »Weinbergblick«
Rote Torgasse 18 | Tel 02713/2168 | www.weinbergblick.at
Gasthof »Goldenes Schiff« ***
Mittergasse 5 | Tel 02713/2326 | www.goldenesschiff.at
»Haus Oestreicher« ***
Hauptstraße 26 | Tel 02713/2317 | www.haus-oestreicher.at
Laglers Hotel Weinberghof ****
Am Hinterweg 17 | Tel 02713/2939 | www.weingut-lagler.at
Pension 1000-Eimerberg ***
Marktstraße 3 | Tel 02713/2334 | www.pension-1000-eimerberg.at
Weingut FJ Gritsch – Mauritiushof
Kirchenplatz 13 | Tel 02713/2450 | www.mauritiushof.at
Weingut Özelt
Kirchenplatz 3 | Tel 02713/2302 | www.weingut-oezelt.at
INTERESTING FACTS
ELIT – EUROPEAN
LITERATURE DAYS
Every year, Spitz Castle becomes a
stage for the European Literature
Days, the highlight of the year's activities of the ELit Literaturehouse
Europe.
Here, authors, journalists, scientists and cultural decision-makers
discuss current literary issues and
review interconnections and differences in the individual literature and
literary markets in Europe.
www.literaturhauseuropa.eu
INTERESTING FACTS
TAUSENDEIMERBERG
The landmark mountain set in the middle
of Spitz actually has two names: Burgberg
(Castle Mountain) towards the cemetery
and Tausendeimerberg (Thousand Bucket
Mountain) towards the Danube. One thousand buckets of wine, which amounts to
approx. 56,000 litres, is what the Bavarian monks are said to have harvested on
the 310-metre-high mountain. This was
in a good year, of course. Narrow, wind-
ing paths lead from the cobbled lanes up
onto the steep slopes, on the ancient stone
terraces, which have made the mountain
a sought-after location. The climb is re-
warded with a panoramic view over the
Danube and the rooftops of the Renaissance and Baroque houses of Spitz, enabling the exertion to be quickly forgotten.
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MÜHLDORF
The Danube air wafts gently through the Spitzer Graben Valley to Mühldorf
and merges with the cool breeze from the north. This enables the grapes to
thrive with a special fruitiness and the apricots to be particularly aromatic. The
Wachau World Heritage Trail also leads this far, to the foot of the Jauerling,
along the Spitzer Graben Panoramic Trail, a trail created and maintained by
»Marivino«, the local apricot and winegrowing association. The millstone is a
symbol of the locality. This is because numerous water wheels, saws, hammer
mills and also ordinary mills were once operated on the Spitz stream.
www.muehldorf-wachau.at
Almost as old as the late Gothic fortified church of Trandorf and the parish
church of St. Margaretha in Niederranna is the bakery. The Stummvoll family
maintains it as a bakery museum and, once a month, bakes bread in the almost
400-year-old clay oven. Suitably revived, the outing continues to the Baroque
»Kalvarienberg« (Cavalry Hill), the stations of which were lovingly restored by
the people of Mühldorf a few years ago, and then on to the impressive Oberranna Fortress. It can pride itself on never having been conquered. The highlight here – in addition to the taverns and panoramic terraces – is the almost
thousand-year-old St. George's Chapel, with its romantic crypt. The fortress
itself is today used as a hotel.
PLEASURE TIPS
SPITZER GRABEN
PANORAMIC TRAIL
Why the wine and the apricots in the
Wachau ripen to such exceptional quality
can be best appreciated on the Spitzer
Graben »From Wine to Apricots« Panoramic Trail, with its countless wine taverns
and gourmet addresses for the purchase
of wine and apricot products.
www.marivino.at
SISSY STUMMVOLL BAKERY MUSEUM
WACHAU WHISKY
A museum created with a great deal of love
and specialist knowledge, with a 17th century clay oven. A farmers' market takes place
every second week in the picturesque inner
courtyard of Cafe Stummvoll.
Tel 02713/8243
www.baeckereimuseum.at
The Kausls not only conjure up homemade
delicacies, juices, liqueurs and brandies
from the fruits at Marillenhof Kausl. A special treat at the distillery is Wachau whisky
in a variety of flavours.
Tel 02713/8225
www.wachau-genuss.at
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21
LOWER AUSTRIA'S HIGHEST VINEYARD
The village of Elsarn marks the upper end of the Wachau wine-growing region.
Converging on the slopes of the hill are vineyards and apricot orchards and
forest.
Here, on Trenning Mountain, is also the highest vineyard in Lower Austria, situated at 575 m above sea level. Several mountain bike trails also run around
Mühldorf. In line with the motto »between wine and stone«, the Weinstein tour
leads from the Wachau vineyards across the summits of the neighbouring
mountains and through the forests of the Southern Waldviertel region.
RIVERSIDE CHURCHES
Oberranna Fortress is an impressive sight with its enchanting towers, mighty
circular walls, moats and its location in the orchards high above the Spitzer
Graben Valley. A gem is the Romanesque chapel, dedicated to Saint George. It
is a rare example of a building style with two transepts, two crossing towers
and a westward-facing crypt. Worthy of note are the massive capitals, one of
which – the famous »Würfelkapitell« – depicts a hunting scene.
INTERESTING FACTS
THE FIRST RAIFFEISEN BANK
A SPECIAL NIGHT HIKE
As part of the Wachau's light project, Vorarlberg
artist Siegrun Appelt has designed an installation
on the path between Niederranna and Oberranna
Fortress. Based on the spatial situation in the locality – the view onto the vastness of the landscape
and the star-filled sky – there is no functional lighting en-route, but rather visitors are able to activate the lighting themselves
as required and can walk through three-dimensional scenic images as they
go. |
www.st-or.at
OUR RECOMMENDATION:
Spitzer Graben is the valley of
superlatives. In addition to the
steepest vineyard terraces in the
Wachau, it is also home to the first
and oldest Raiffeisen bank in Austria. A milestone in farming history:
In the second half of the 19th century, Friedrich Wilhelm Raiffeisen's
revolutionar y cooperative ideas
were also taken up in Austria. 1886
saw establishment of the first Raiffeisen bank in Mühldorf in the
Wachau – 13 years before the
founding of the Austrian Raiffeisen
Cooperative (Österreichische Raiffeisenverband).
Gasthof Weißes Rössl ***
Markt 17 | Tel 02713/8257 | www.7handl.at
EXCURSION TIP
PILGRIMAGES
IN THE WACHAU
One insider's tip is the baroque Calvary hill
in Unterranna.
Admission is free at all times. Not far from
here, at the northern edge of the Jauerling
nature park, you will find the richly furnished pilgrimage church of Heiligenblut.
WEINSTEIN-BIKE
In line with its motto of »between wine
and stone«, this exceptional mountain bike
tour takes you from the vineyards of the
Wachau, across the summits of the neighbouring mountains and through the dark
woods of the southern Waldviertel region.
The stretch between Wachau and Waldviertel offers a uniquely diverse landscape.
The circular route with many great views
starts at the main square in Mühldorf and
can easily be cycled in sections. And best
of all: you can get back down to your starting point from anywhere.
www.weinsteinbike.at
www.weinsteintour.at
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WACHAU DELICACIES
The Wachau ranks amount the top culinary regions in Europe. Few regions
treat visitors to such a large number of culinary addresses and delicious
products.
Throughout the year, a selection of regional products and delicacies can be
found under:
www.wachaushop.com
SWEET TREATS
The Göttweiger »Originale Benediktiner Torte« (Original Benedictine Cake) is
a speciality: It is baked in accordance with a recipe dating back to 1401. The
nut cake filled with apricot jam and with a delicate chocolate glaze can be
enjoyed in the monastery restaurant.
www.stiftgoettweig.at
In the style of the Wachau's famous Kalmuck check, Café-Konditorei
Elisabeth in Weißenkirchen has created the »Kalmucktorte« – an artistically
decorated composition filled with chocolate mousse.
www.kalmucktorte.at
The »Original Wachauer Kugeln« (Original Wachau Balls), created by CaféKonditorei Raimitz in Krems, comprise a core of nougat, enveloped in apricot
marzipan and dark chocolate. | www.raimitz.at
A creative atelier for sweet dreams is Café-Konditorei Hagmann in the pedestrian zone of Krems. The finest chocolates are produced without preservatives by the premiere chocolate manufacturer of Krems.
www.wachauer-schokolade.at
HIGH-PROOF SPIRITS
Bailoni, the »1st Wachau Apricot Distillery« arguably ranks among the most
well-known manufacturers of apricot liqueurs and apricot brandies. In addition,
apricot jams and apricots marinated in high-proof spirits are also on offer here.
The distillery can be visited in Krems, where tastings can be enjoyed and products purchased. | www.bailoni.at
For more than 50 years, the Hellerschmid family has been producing brandies
and liqueurs in their private distillery in Krems. Also included in their range are
syrups, jams, chutneys and mustard. | www.hellerschmid.com
Johanna and Markus Wieser create their homemade schnapps in line with
traditional recipes and new, multifarious ideas in their very own distillery.
www.wieser-wachau.at
REGIONAL CULINARY DELIGHTS
Wining and dining is typically enjoyed in the countless »Heuriger« (wine
taverns). A »Buschen« (bundle of twigs) on the entrance door indicates that
it is »ausg’steckt«, in other words that the tavern is open.
Furthermore, there is a series of stylish country inns and a surprisingly
large number of restaurants that have been awarded the Gault-Millau
toque.
Good addresses in which to take a look at the seasonal fruit and vegetables
on offer are the numerous farm shops and farmer's markets.
All addresses, opening times and the »Heuriger« calendar can be found
under www.wachau.at
WACHAU SAFFRON, CHILLI AND CULTIVATED PLANTS
Saffron and chilli are the exotic species among the plants from the Wachau.
Saffron is produced by the »1st Wachau Saffron Manufacturer« at Dürnstein
railway station, where there is also a shop and culinary seminars can be attended on the subject. | www.crocus-austriacus.at
Various chilli types, from mild through to very hot, can be purchased at
Gärtnerei Hick in Weißenkirchen. Furthermore, the plant nursery range
also includes typical plants from the Wachau, such as vines, vineyard
peaches, apricot and almond trees, chestnut, oleander and many more.
www.hick-wachau.at
THE WACHAU LABERL
Baked in accordance with a secret family recipe since 1905, the wonderfully
light white bread roll tastes as good with jam as it does with ham, hearty
»Heuriger« spreads and a glass of wine. The »Original Wachauer Laberl« is
available from Franz Schmidl's bakery in Dürnstein or in Krems.
www.schmidl-duernstein.at
ORGANIC CHEESE DAIRY
Single-origin cheese enjoyment in the best organic quality is produced by
Roland Berger in his Emmersdorf-based cheese factory. From his courtyard
farm at the base of the Jauerling, he only processes organically farmed milk
from sheep, goats and cows. The range includes specialities such as Gouda,
Camembert, Brie, red culture varieties, as well as cheese enhanced with chilli
and pepper. | www.biokaeserei-berger.at
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24
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MARIA LAACH AM JAUERLING
Maria Laach has a box seat in the Wachau. In summer, Jauerling Nature Park is
a wonderful hiking area. From the »Wachau balcony«, the terrace of the Nature
Park House, the view extends far beyond the Danube Valley. The Wachau World
Heritage Trail also leads to Maria Laach and over the summit of the Jauerling,
the highest elevation along the entire course of the Danube. In winter, walkers
and snowshoe hikers delight in nature. There is even a ski lift – and a modern
ski chalet extends an invitation to après ski.
www.marialaach.at
History also has a powerful presence here. For many hundreds of years, Maria
Laach has been a much-visited pilgrimage site. The pilgrims' destination is the
pilgrimage church of Maria Laach, with its double-winged altar and the miraculous image of »Mary with six fingers«. The virtually unchanged historic decor
of the church's interior is impressive. Delights of an earthly nature are available from the farmers' market, which takes place every Saturday. The Three
Churches Trail and the Power Trail, both of which start in Maria Laach, allow you
to experience forces of both a spiritual and physical nature.
PLEASURE TIPS
REISINGER FRUIT FARM
»From the tree to the bottle« is the
maxim of Franz Reisinger, who cultivates a 15-hectare fruit farm at an altitude of 800 m on the Jauerling, and
produces fruit juices, nectars, cider,
brandies, liqueurs and jams – harvested by hand when fully ripe and processed while fresh. | Tel 02713/2855
www.obsthof-reisinger.at
MARIA LAACH
FARMER’S MARKET
NATURE PARK HOUSE &
JAUERLING LOOKOUT POINT
Every Saturday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. –
fresh agricultural produce direct from
the farm.
www.marialaach.at
Warm meals served all day and the highest
and most beautiful view of the Danube from
the Wachau Terrace. | Tel 02713/30017
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25
JAUERLING NATURE PARK – WACHAU
Sitting at an altitude of 915 metres and gazing far into the countryside – that's
how to enjoy a sunny day on the Wachau Terrace of the Nature Park House on
the Jauerling. Encircling the lookout point are the forests and meadows of the
Jauerling Wachau Nature Park. When the weather is clear, you can see from
the Carpathian range across the Ötscher mountain right through to the Watzmann. With its seven stages, the Jauerling Circuit is suited to experienced and
casual hikers alike. The detailed descriptions and GPS tracks can be found on
the website of the Wachau World Heritage Trail.
|
And when winter arrives, the inhabitants of the Wachau point to their own
skiing area with pride. The skiing area is ideal for either a quick warm-up
run or for beginners. However, it has also already played host to the International Ski Federation Snowboarding World Cup. Support is provided by two
ski schools – and there is also a ski chalet. Tip: Floodlit night skiing is possible
from Wednesday to Saturday.
www.jauerling.at
INTERESTING FACTS
THE THREE CHURCHES TRAIL
With historic roots, this well-marked
path traces a line between the three
most distinctive churches in the Nature Park: Maria Laach Pilgrimage
Church, the late Gothic St. Andreas
Pilgrimage Church in Heiligenblut
and the fortified Gothic Weitental
Church.
Car-free routes, expansive views
across the Jauerlinger uplands and
the Weitental Valley, and finally the
hearty specialities in the town's inns
most definitely provide for renewed
energy.
THE POWER TRAIL
PILGRIMAGES IN THE WACHAU
It is not precisely known when pilgrimages to Maria Laach began. Church researchers believe it to be a tradition that goes back almost 1000 years.
The destination, Maria Laach Parish Church, lies on the southern slope of the
Jauerling and has largely retained its medieval decor. 1380 saw construction
of the Gothic place of worship begin at the site of the previous church, and the
number of pilgrimages increased. Pilgrimage vows at the time of the plague
and miraculous healings in the 18th century drew increasing numbers of pilgrims to the double-winged Gothic altar and its miraculous image of »Mary
with the six fingers«. According to legend, the sixth finger of the Virgin Mary
always reappeared even after having been painted over.
OUR RECOMMENDATION:
Dorfhotel Grüner Baum ***
Am Hauptplatz 3 | Tel 02712/8303 | www.beim-ringl.at
Maria Laach is not just a place of
power in the figurative sense: the
village well marks the start of the
1.5 km long Power Trail. The circuit
was initiated by Edmund Binder, who
senses the phenomena of earth energy. The power of the landscape
can be felt at ten stations. The trail
leads from the »Steinernes Tor«
(Stone Gate) and the »Sternzeichenplatz« (Star Sign Place) via the power
bench and sound station up to the
highlight – Maria Laach Pilgrimage
Church. | www.kraftweg.at
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AGGSBACH MARKT
The community of Aggsbach Markt rose to fame on account of a special archaeological find in the village of Willendorf. The annals state: »On a glorious August
morning in 1908, a Wachau lady was torn from her sleep of 29,500 years during
railway works.« The Venus of Willendorf – 11 centimetres tall, made of limestone
and originally covered in red chalk – continues to be an archaeological sensation
today.
Worth paying a visit to are the buildings dating back to the 16th century. The fishing industry and trade provided the inhabitants a modest wealth in those times.
www.aggsbach.gv.at
The three-nave parish church of Aggsbach Markt was built at the end of the
13th century in the late Romanesque style. It was later extended in Gothic style
and finally converted with Baroque extravagance. With its surrounding wall, the
church is considered to be a typical example of a Wachau parish church complex.
In days gone by, it was a much-visited pilgrimage site to the Virgin Mary. The long
history lends a romantic note to a stroll through the town.
Providing a dynamic contrast is the wind blowing from the Jauerling, the local
mountain in the Wachau. It provides the people of Aggsbach with a striking natural hiking arena. Aggsbach, just like Willendorf, is a stage on the Jauerling
circuit.
EXCURSION TIP
HUBHOF FAMILY PARK
Fun and thrills are provided by a prehistoric show with life-sized dinosaurs,
a Neanderthal family, gigantic insects, a
nostalgic, enchanted forest, a dwarf goat
enclosure, a gnome exhibition, an Indian
village, paddle boats and much more.
Tel 02712/241
www.hubhof.at
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VENUS OF WILLENDORF
The small statuette was probably the beauty ideal of an era in the history
of mankind: Corpulent, with heavy breasts and wide hips, is how the limestone figurine from the Stone Age appears. Recommended for a brief journey
through time: the »Venusium« is situated just a few steps away from the excavation site. This small but interesting museum transports its visitors back to
the Stone Age, with findings from archaeological digs and information about
the first female figures in human history.
The original Venus is to be found in the Natural History Museum in Vienna.
www.willendorf.info
RIVERSIDE CHURCHES
Situated in the district of Aggsbach are Aggsbach Parish Church, with the
Baroque presbytery by Jakob Prandtauer, the 19th century Groisbach Chapel,
the Willendorf village chapel, and the free-standing wooden bell tower of
Köfering.
TOURS APP
The Wachau-Nibelungengau-Kremstal app is recommended for the simple
and convenient planning of tours via the Smartphone. Those preferring to
travel with a hiking map can request one for free from Donau Niederösterreich Tourismus GmbH.
Further information, as well as detailed route descriptions and GPS tracks, is
available for downloading under www.welterbesteig.at.
INTERESTING FACTS
THE JAUERLING CIRCUIT
Paying homage to the »Roof of the
Wachau« or as a route to the highlights
of the World Heritage Region – in seven
stages, the Jauerling Circuit leads
around and up the highest mountain in
the Wachau. The long-distance hiking
trail begins and ends in Spitz. It can also
be started or ended at any other stage of
the route – ideal for families and ambitious long-distance hikers alike.
Anyone setting out from Spitz goes past
the ruins of Hinterhaus and past Willendorf, where the Venus was found,
and back to Aggsbach Markt. Overgrown stone terraces and romantic
villages, such as Groisbach and Köfering, lie en-route to the municipality
of Aggsbach. Over hills and through
forests, heading for Maria Laach,
from where the trail climbs up to Emmersdorf and past Rothenhof Castle.
Meadows and hamlets line the route
to the village of Weiten and its fortified
church. After the lofty villages of Heiligenblut and Raxendorf, the route leads
downhill towards the Spitzer Graben
Valley, to the fortified church of Trandorf and finally to Mühldorf. And at last
comes the royalty among the stages:
From Mühldorf past the highest vine-
yards in Austria, the 960-metre-high
Jauerling is conquered, before one
again turns towards the Danube, where
the circuit ends in Spitz.
GPS tracks, elevation profiles and
stage descriptions are available on the
Wachau World Heritage Trail website.
WELCOME TO THE REG
WACHAU-NIBELUNGENGAU-KREMSTA
Caricature Museum Kre
www.karikaturmuseum.at
(winemakers)
Winzer Krems erk
rems.at
ww w.w inz
Ar tstetten Ca stle
ww w.schloss-artstetten.a
Linz – approx. 80 km
t
GION
AL VALLEY
Vienna – approx. 80 km
ems
Göttweig Abbey
ww w.stiftgoet tweig.at
Agg stein
Ruin
w w w.r uin
eaggstein
.at
Information
e-bike
charging station
ship station
top excursion
destinations
church, abbey,
monastery
castle, ruin
museum
ferry
y
Melk Abbk.eat
w w w.stif tmel
World Heritage trail
Jauerling circuit trail
Nibelungengau
long-distance hiking trail
cycle path
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EMMERSDORF AN DER DONAU
Emmersdorf arguably has the most beautiful view of Melk Abbey. A narrow strip
of land is all that separates the old Wachau town from the gently flowing River
Danube. Both have always been a source of visitors and wealth. Once due to
the water toll, today thanks to the many cyclists and culture-interested visitors.
Liners also stop at the new shipping pier near the Danube bridge.
Sun-worshippers come into their own at Luberegg, on one of the most beautiful
sandy beaches in the Wachau. The people of Emmersdorf have something in
store for anyone seeking a special experience on the Danube: A trip on a faithful
replica of a wooden »Zille«, a flat-bottomed boat, from Emmersdorf to Spitz and
Dürnstein, in the heart of the Wachau. A cultural tour and navigation training are
optional extras (see Tips – Speckner boat trips).
TOURIST
INFORMATION
3644 Emmersdorf, Nr. 22
Tel 02752/70010
www.emmersdorf.gv.at
Impressive sights in the historic centre of Emmersdorf are the late Gothic parish
church of St. Nikolaus, Rothenhof Castle, 16th century vintners' houses and the
500-year-old vaulted ceilings in the town hall. Nearby, on the Wachau World
Heritage Trail, lie the ruins of Gossam, a Romanesque-Gothic castle chapel,
which was once a popular pilgrimage destination.
Also worth visiting is the »Kramurigwölb« – over 2,000 exhibits from the 17th to
19th centuries are on display in Alois Zipperle's museum of local heritage.
(Reservations under Tel 02752/71764).
PLEASURE TIPS
BAUER & WIRT LANGTHALER
A family-run business with a cosy restaurant and the option of romantic picnics.
Children love the horses, rabbits and
guinea pigs. In addition, there are approx.
25 red deer living on the premises.
Tel 02752/71427
www.gasthaus-langthaler.at
SPECKNER BOAT TRIPS
Danube adventure trips travelling downstream in the 10-metre »Wachowia«, a
historic flat-bottom boat typical for the
Danube, from Melk or Emmersdorf to the
Wachau World Heritage Site.
Tel 0664/79 009 68 | www.naufahrt.at
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THE WACHAU RAILWAY
Since 2012, the more than 100-year-old Wachau railway has been travelling in
a new design and with a new programme. It runs from Krems to Emmersdorf
on weekends and public holidays, and daily in the summer. The line follows
an impressive, elevated route and offers wonderful views across the Wachau.
Combined »Boat & Train« tickets are a new addition, for example travelling out
by train and back by boat – or vice-versa.
www.noevog.at
RIVERSIDE CHURCHES
Enthroned on the hill is St. Nicholas Parish Church, with its lofty late
Gothic nave. From here a path leads over the »Kolomanistiege« (St. Coloman
Steps), with the statue of Saint Coloman, into the town centre. At this point it is
worth paying a visit to the Chapel of Mary Magdalene (reservations for group
tours Tel 0664/9242668).
As night falls, light installations by Vorarlberg artist Siegrun Appelt
can be enjoyed at the parish church, the Chapel of Mary Magdalene, and
on the viaduct.
Situated directly on the Wachau World Heritage Trail, heading towards
Aggsbach Markt, lie the ruins of the former of Gossam Castle Chapel, which
was once a popular pilgrimage destination. From Emmersdorf it is also
not far to one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in Austria: Maria Taferl
in Nibelungengau.
INTERESTING FACTS
DONKEY TREKKING
OUR RECOMMENDATION:
»Bauer & Wirt« Langthaler
Pömling 14 | Tel 02752/71427 | www.gasthaus-langthaler.at
Hotel-Restaurant Donauhof **** & Gasthaus Weißes Rössl
Nr. 40/Nr. 8 | Tel 02752/71777 | www.pichler-wachau.com
Hotel-Restaurant »Zum schwarzen Bären« ****
Nr. 7 | Tel 02752/71249 | www.hotelpritz.at
Landhotel Wachau ****
Luberegg 20 | Tel 02752/72572 | www.pichler-wachau.com
They go by the names of Abraham,
Balduin, Kasimir or Sokrates, have
impish long ears and, good-natured and not at all stubborn, are on
standby for various donkey adventures in the Wachau: Anita Brunner
and her donkeys in Rantenberg near
Emmersdorf offer introductory tours,
hikes, obstacle courses and carriage
rides. »Hiking is a donkey's delight«
is the name of an approx. 3-hour trek
into the back country of Emmersdorf.
Anyone choosing an obstacle course
on a donkey, and who completes the
accompanying questionnaire, is allowed to refer to themselves as the
proud owner of a donkey driver's license – a novel idea for company and
club outings.
Tel 0660/3911465
www.eselabenteuer.at
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MELK
Standing on the cliff above the town, Melk Abbey annually attracts hundreds
of thousands of tourists from across the globe. Beneath the world-famous
Benedictine Abbey, another gem of cultural history is revealed: the UNESCO
World Heritage Town of Melk.
The town of Melk opens itself up to visitors like a magnificently illustrated book.
More than 1000 years of history can be experienced in the lanes and squares
of the historic town centre. The »most beautiful post office in Austria«, the city
tower, the Gothic parish church, the »Cottage« district with its famous Villa
Loos or the countless burgher houses are among the tourist attractions of
the old town. Visitors can also now explore and experience this rich historical
heritage and the town's unique flair first hand on four themed trails.
TOURIST
INFORMATION
3390 Melk, Kremser Straße 5
Tel 02752/51160
www.stadt-melk.at
Today, the town of Melk is also well-known far beyond the country's borders
with its top-class cultural events. Virtuosos arrive from all corners of the
globe for the International Baroque Days at Melk Abbey, which is celebrated
at Whitsun. Ambitious theatre and humorous music revues are offered every
year by Melk Summer Festival in the Wachau Arena. Shows and cabaret can
be enjoyed at the Kulturwerkstatt Tischlerei Melk directly in the town centre.
From the crazy »Fasching« (carnival) parade, the culinary Melk »Höfefest«
(Courtyard Festival) in summer, the atmospheric Melk Advent right through
to the high spirited New Year celebrations, the World Heritage Town of Melk
offers a diverse programme throughout the year and is always worth a trip.
PLEASURE TIPS
ADVENT IN MELK
In the days leading up to Christmas, the 24
windows of the »Alte Post« are transformed
into the largest Advent calendar in the town
of Melk. An extensive programme awaits
visitors at the Advent village on Hauptplatz
(Main Square). Culinary delights and handicrafts exclusively from local producers are
to be found in the huts. The Advent village is
open during the weekends of Advent and on
New Year's Eve, respectively.
www.melkeradvent.at
MELK SUMMER FESTIVAL
SWEET DELICACIES
Major works from world literature and
mythology, outstanding actors and a
unique atmosphere between the Danube,
the alluvial forests and Melk Abbey: all
the ingredients that guarantee fascinating
theatre evenings, summer upon summer.
Tel 02752/540 60
www.sommerspielemelk.at
The delicious »Melker Taler« (Melk Coins),
a handmade chocolate speciality and the
»Original Melker Torte« (Original Melk Cake),
a sweet temptation consisting of a fine chocolate-almond paste with apricot jam were
created by Café-Kondtorei Mistlbacher.
Tel 02752/52350
www.mistlbacher.com
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RIVERSIDE CHURCHES
The Wachau is a cultural landscape that has been powerfully shaped by Christianity since Roman times. It started with Saint Severin, who lived in Mautern,
following whom many monasteries – primarily in the Bavarian region – set up
harvesting yards in order to cultivate wine, thereby leaving a lasting mark on
the landscape. Today, the large number of churches along the Danube testifies
to a long tradition of Christianity.
Further information is available under www.kirchen-am-fluss.at, where it is
also possible to have a glimpse inside churches that are otherwise inaccessible.
THEMED TRAILS
In a creative and diverse manner, the themed trails »Goldene Stiege« (Golden
Staircase), »Blaue Welle« (Blue Wave), »Grüner Pfad« (Green Path) and »Roter
Faden« (Red Thread) lead the way to countless attractions in Melk. In existence
since 2009, the creative trails Golden Staircase and Blue Wave are identified
by gold and blue glass stones in the ground. These stones are arranged as a
sequence of Morse Code.
The Golden Staircase leads from the Well of Coloman in the pedestrian zone
via Sechsergasse up to Melk Abbey. The Blue Wave guides visitors directly from
the Danube into the Melk town centre. The artists Rudy and Martinmaria Gritsch
have worked the blue and golden stones into the granite pavement of both creative trails.
The Green Path leads visitors from Wachau Info Center Melk on Kremser Straße
through to the renovated municipal park.
The heart of the themed trails is the Red Thread – a new one-and–a-half kilometre long historic circuit to the 30 attractions in Melk. The point of departure
is likewise the Wachau Info Center. Available here are folders in German and
English, information sheets in 15 other languages, as well as audio guides.
OUR RECOMMENDATION:
Hotel-Restaurant »zur Post« ****
Linzer Straße 1 | Tel 02752/52345 | www.post-melk.at
Hotel Wachau **** & Restaurant »Wachauer Stube«
Am Wachberg 3 | Tel 02752/52531 | www.hotel-wachau.at
Café Konditorei Mistlbacher
Hauptstraße 1 | Tel 02752/52350 | www.mistlbacher.com
PLEASURE TIPS
PROTESTANT TRACES
The Reformation found its way to the
Wachau in the 16th century. Virtually
the entire population converted to the
Protestant faith. Several years after
the »Agenda« (the church service
edict) came into force in 1571, Protestants were pushed into illegality.
From 1781 onwards, the Patent of
Tolerance permitted a Protestant
belief once more. Today, the »Evangelische Heilandskirche« in Krems,
consecrated in 1913, and the »Erlöserkirche«, consecrated in 1959
for the parish community of MelkScheibbs (Lutheran Church and
Reformed Church), are places of worship for the Protestant community.
2010 saw the opening of the Protestant Community Centre in Melk.
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MELK ABBEY
TOURIST
INFORMATION
3390 Melk,
Abt-Berthold-Dietmayr-Straße 1
Tel 02752/555-0
www.stiftmelk.at
Towering on a high cliff above the town and the River Danube, visible from afar
and imposing in size: Since Leopold II, the Babenburg Margrave of Austria, gave
his castle and church on the Melk cliffs to the Benedictine monks in 1089, Melk
Abbey has developed into a spiritual and cultural centre in Austria. A school was
founded here as early as the 12th century and the foundation stone laid for the
abbey's library, which remains one of a kind today. Constructed in accordance with
plans by Jakob Prandtauer between 1702 and 1736, the magnificent sunny-yellow
Baroque building reflects the importance of the abbey and is considered to be a
perfect example of the high Baroque period. The abbey is today affiliated with 23
parish churches. In addition, it houses a secondary school with almost one thousand students. Melk Abbey is a standard item on the travel itineraries of tourists
from across the globe. In 2008, it was chosen by the National Geographic Magazine
as the »Best Historic Destination in the World«. Visitors experience highlights at
every turn: the Imperial Staircase, the Abbey Museum, the Marble Hall and the
abbey library, featuring frescoes by Paul Troger, the abbey church and the view
over the Danube from the balconies. Finally, the abbey park enchants the visitor
with a frescoed garden pavilion, the »Paradiesgärtlein« (Little Paradise Garden),
an alley of 250-year-old lime trees and many other highlights.
Every year at Whitsun, the abbey is the setting for the globally renowned »Melk
Abbey International Baroque Days« or, in August, the stage for summer concerts
in the Baroque garden pavilion or in the abbey church. Throughout the year, Melk
Abbey plays host to many concerts and other cultural events.
www.stiftmelk.at
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35
THE ABBEY
The magnificent Baroque building was constructed in the 18th century according to plans by Jakob Prandtauer. The Marble Hall and the abbey library,
which is decorated with wonderful inlays and today holds 100,000 books, are
decorated with grandiose ceiling frescoes by Paul Troger. The abbey church
impresses with its barrel vault and 64-metre-high drum cupola, each featuring
frescoes by Johann M. Rottmayr. The largest bell in Lower Austria rings out
from the tower on Christian high holidays.
THE ABBEY PARK
Arranged over several levels, the Abbey Park is an exquisite example of garden
design on an intact Baroque ground plan. The eye-catcher and focal point is
the garden pavilion and its exotic frescoes. Although the majority of the plantings date from the 19th century, new impetus has nevertheless been given in
recent years. Modern »talking stones« for example, a »Benedictine Path« for
meditation, a drinking water fountain bubbling out of a fossilised tree, and a
fire pit. Creating the link to the early days of the order is the »Little Paradise
Garden«, based on the gardening book »De Cultura Hortorum« dating back to
the 9th century.
THE »WACHAULABOR«
The future is in the making in the northern bastion. Students from the abbey secondary school are presenting their own exhibition in a display area on the first
floor of the northern bastion. The »Wachaulabor« (Wachau Laboratory) is a critical
appraisal of the past and addresses a possible future for the Wachau, as envisaged
by the students.
www.wachaulabor.stiftsgymnasium-melk.org
EXCURSION TIP
SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS
IN MELK ABBEY
Alternating special exhibitions of domestic and international artists in
the columned hall and other areas of
the abbey, as well as the »Wachaulabor« in the northern bastion, grapple with very diverse topics from the
fields of past and present, art and
culture.
WACHAU CULTURE MELK
Whether it is at Whitsun for the International Baroque Days in Melk Abbey,
directed by world renowned tenor Michael Schade, Melk Summer Festival with
its sensory theatre experience, the cultural atelier »Tischlerei Melk«, which attracts audiences in autumn and in spring with a colourful cabaret and concert
programme, or the autumnal culture programme »Wachau in Echtzeit« (Wachau in Real Time), for which the actress Ursula Strauss curates a programme
every November, including a variety of wonderful artists – the spectrum of
cultural delights in the Wachau covers the entire year and offers all manner of
diversity. |
www.kultur-melk.at
INTERESTNG FACTS
HISTORY & STORIES
Books hold secrets, and these can be
dangerous. This message is illustrated
by Umberto Eco's bestseller »The Name
of the Rose«. However, his novel is not
based on the library of Melk Abbey, but
rather on the fictive manuscripts of the
supposed chronicles of a 13th century
monk – Adso of Melk. The truth is that
discipline became slack in many 15th
century monasteries.
Intriguesand extravagances were the order
of the day – even in the Benedictine abbey
of Melk, which was drowning in debt. However, a strict reformation of monasteries
was decreed at the Council of Constance
and Melk Abbey was the starting point
(hence the name »Melk Reform«).
Under the aegis of Abbot Nikolaus Seyringer, the Melk Reform became the
basis of a broad reform movement,
and monks were instructed to implement these in other monasteries
as friars. In this way, the Melk Reform
encompassed Austria and all of Southern Germany right through to the Black
Forest.
36
|
SCHÖNBÜHEL-AGGSBACH
Aggsbach-Dorf and Schönbühel are primarily known for the imposing ruins
of Aggstein Castle, with a wonderful panoramic view over the Danube and the
striking complex of Schönbühel Castle. With its round fortified towers and red
tiled roof – as seen from the Danube – it is already an attractive eye-catcher
from a distance. However, the private property is not open to the public. Not
far away stands a second distinctive building – the former Servite monastery.
A special feature is its underground replica of the Church of the Nativity in
Bethlehem. Anyone wishing to visit both buildings must notify the monastery.
www.kloster-schoenbuehel.at
www.aggsbach-dorf.at
The former sphere of activity of the Carthusians is documented in the Carthusian
Museum in Aggsbach village (see »The Carthusians«). Worth visiting today is the
simple Gothic Carthusian church, which was impressively renovated in Baroque
style, with its partially intact remains of the former cloisters and the meditation
garden. Following a visit to the cultural attractions, a cycle tour through the Wachau along the southern bank of the Danube is recommended. The Danube cycle
path is now freely accessible all the way from Melk through to Mautern near
Krems. Rest areas with comfortable bike shelters extend an invitation to linger.
Detours into the natural back country demand a certain level of physical fitness.
This is rewarded by wonderful views and insights into the landscape and the
wonderful peace and quiet. Of course, this can also be enjoyed while hiking.
Stages 9 and 10 of the Wachau World Heritage Trail lead to the most beautiful
spots on the right bank of the Danube.
EXCURSION TIPS
HAMMER MILL
A »living museum« with a restored 16th
century apparatus, the only one of its
kind in the whole of Central Europe. The
hammer, bellows and a grinder are operated here by three waterwheels. The
hammer mill's stone outbuilding is today
used as »Steinstadel Mineral Centre«.
Opening times are available under:
www.kartaeuserland.at
STEINSTADEL MINERAL CENTRE
With more than 300 exhibits, the geological
diversity of Lower Austria is impressively
documented in this museum in a natural
stone building.
www.kartause.net
AGGSTEIN CASTLE RUINS
The former fortress of Aggstein perches like a falcon's nest over the Danube.
Among the ruins it is easy to immerse oneself in the medieval world, in the time
of the castle's builder Nizzo von Gobatsburg and the Kuenringer, whose job it
was to protect the Danube trade route.
You may indeed feel a shiver go down your spine at the legend of robber knight
Scheck vom Wald, who placed his prisoners on a rocky precipice, the »little rose
garden«, giving them the choice: starve or jump. Today, torch-lit medieval banquets
are held here in authentic costumes. Weddings, too, take place either in the open
air or in the knight's hall. Especially popular is the atmospheric Christmas market.
www.ruineaggstein.net
RIVERSIDE CHURCHES
Following the establishment of Aggsbach Charterhouse in the 14th century,
residence was taken up by the silent monks, the Carthusians. Following the
Turkish wars and the Reformation, reconstruction, and finally dissolution by
Kaiser Joseph II, a decorative monastery complex remains today. Worth seeing
is the church with its Gothic arches. The Carthusian Museum houses special
exhibits from Carthusian orders. The torn down part of the complex – where
the cells of the monks once stood – quite literally blossoms in renewed splendour: The meditation garden's ground plan follows the exact layout of that of
the former house and provides a new spatial impression of the central part of
the Charterhouse in former times.
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37
INTERESTING FACTS
THE KUENRINGER
Chains stretched over the Danube and malicious ambushes – the
»Dogs of Kuenring« come off worse
in legends than they do in history.
Descendants of Azzo von Gobatsburg, they were not robber knights
but faithful ministers for the most
part, followers of the local sovereigns. They came from Trier to
Lower Austria in the 11th century
with the then Margrave Leopold II.
The Kuenrings settled in Aggstein
Castle, in Dürnstein and in the Waldviertel district, among other places.
They helped to defend, keep the
peace in and cultivate the region –
and so laid the foundations for the
flourishing of trade and agriculture.
A special pilgrimage destination in the Wachau is that of Schönbühel
Monastery. Further information can be found on page 39: Interesting Facts.
OUR RECOMMENDATION:
Aggsteinerhof
Aggstein Nr. 13 | Tel 02753/8350 | www.aggsteinerhof.at
Gasthof-Camping Familie Stumpfer ***
Schönbühel Nr. 7 | Tel 02752/8510 | www.stumpfer.com
Residenz Wachau ****
Aggsbach Dorf Nr. 19 | Tel 02753/8221 | www.residenz-wachau.at
INTERESTING FACTS
THE CARTHUSIANS
In the tradition of the great hermits, the
Order of the Carthusians was founded
by Saint Bruno of Cologne in 1084 in the
Chartreuse Mountains, near Grenoble.
The monks were expected to live in silence and solitude, with individual cells
and small gardens separated from one
another and only connected by the cloister. Communal chanting in praise of God
was permitted, but all types of musical
instruments were forbidden. Austria’s
Carthusian monasteries have since
been abolished, but there are still over
20 monasteries of this strict order left in
the world. ARGE Kartäuserland and, in
particular, the Aggsbach Association of
Friends of the Carthusians are dedicated
to documenting this silent order. In the
Carthusian Museum, the Association has
collected records of the life of the order’s
founder and of the life and work of the
Carthusians. Exhibits include original objects from today’s Carthusians and furniture from a Carthusian cell at the Sélignac
Charterhouse in France. The wonderful
effect of the world-famous Chartreuse
liqueur, distilled from 130 herbs, can be
sampled on site. The monks’ liqueur is
still made according to a recipe dating
from 1605.
www.kartaeuserland.at
www.kartause.net
38
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BERGERN IM DUNKELSTEINERWALD
www.bergern-dunkelsteinerwald.at
The small community in the mysterious, tranquil Dunkelsteinerwald Forest lies
somewhat secluded from the Danube. Unterbergern, with its vineyards, is part
of the Wachau landscape conservation area. From a geographical perspective,
Bergern is part of the Mostviertel district, though geologically the Dunkelsteinerwald belongs to the Waldviertel district. In this expansive, mysterious forest
area, with its clearings and valleys, there are plenty of cultural treasures and
special places to discover. Arguably the most beautiful view of the Danube can
be seen from the Ferdinand lookout point in Unterbergern, which can be reached
from the church square in less than 20 minutes. From the wooden lookout point
on the steep cliff there is a clear view across the Danube Valley, from Mautern
in the east through to Rossatz in the west. Recalling the very first masters of the
woods – the Celts – is a megalithic stone circle in Geyersberg, along with numerous archaeological findings from the Stone, Bronze and Iron Age. The stone
circle precisely marks the beginning of winter, when the shadow of the south
stone reaches the centre of the circle. From the stone circle it is just a few minutes to one of the main pilgrimage destinations in the region – the Baroque Maria
Langegg Pilgrimage Church, its monastery and the Pilgrimage Museum. The
municipality of Bergern is the starting point for »Wander-DUREN« hikes in the
Dunkelsteinerwald Forest region, which stretches almost all the way to St. Pölten
and Schallaburg. The Dunkelsteinerwald Circuit complements the World Heritage Trail and the Jauerling Circuit and, via nine stages and four connecting paths,
leads to magnificent lookout points, passing monasteries, castles, fortresses and
ruins and leading through idyllic forest areas. Guest houses, wine taverns and
lodges ensure culinary pleasure and extend an invitation to linger. The »DUREN«
is accompanied by fairytales and legends from the region.
GENUSSTIPPS
ALL ABOUT THE WILD ROSE
12 different wild rose varieties have been
native to the Dunkelsteinerwald Forest
area for centuries. The inhabitants and
wild rose fans devote themselves to their
blossom and fruit – the rosehip. The petals are processed into liqueur, syrup and
desserts – the rosehips are transformed
into jams and liqueurs.
www.arge-dunkelsteinerwald.at
GEYERSBERG STONE CIRCLE
True-to-scale reproduction of a megalithic Celtic stone circle, representing a
recap of the megalithic and Celtic cultures.
INTERESTING FACTS
SCHÖNBÜHEL MONASTERY
AND MARIA LANGEGG CHURCH
When Count Starhemberg had the former Schönbühel Monastery built, he did
everything in his power to make it a faithful reproduction of the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. When the first monks
of the Order of the Servite were called
here in 1666, they soon had their hands
full in caring for the worshippers of Saint
Rosalia, who flocked here after the plague
at the end of the 17th century. Shortly be-
forehand, Matthäus Häring from Salzburg had built a chapel in Maria Langegg,
fulfilling a vow he made upon the healing
Since early medieval times, Christians have made pilgrimages along the Way
of Saint James to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, in order to pray for forgiveness or mercy at the grave of Saint James. The Wachau stretch of the route
between the Benedictine abbeys of Göttweig and Melk is one of the scenic highlights on the Austrian section of the pilgrimage trail. Passing through verdant
vineyards, it leads into the Roman town of Mautern before continuing on to the
Ferdinand lookout point. From Unterbergern, marked trails lead past seven
Celtic/Illyric burial mounds to the Maria Langegg pilgrimage church.
The former Servite monastery in Maria Langegg was always a popular place
for mercy and miraculous healings. Today, a portable info panel accompanies
you on four themed circuits through the church.
Tip: The picturesque pilgrimage church is the ideal setting for a romantic
wedding.
www.maria-langegg.kirche.at
EXCURSION TIP
MARIA LANGEGG
The Pilgrimage Museum is worth a visit
and, among other things, provides an insight into other pilgrimage destinations
in the Wachau and surrounding area.
Additional rooms can be viewed with a
guide, including the library with its decorative frescoes and late Baroque decor,
and the treasury with Votive offerings.
Tel 02753/20741
www.maria-langegg.kirche.at
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39
of his sick child. Further miraculous healings followed, with 381 miracles in 1783 –
according to the parish chronicles. Maria
Langegg, the Church of »Mary, Salvation
of the Sick« became a place of mercy and
miraculous healing, and a lively pilgrimage route was soon established between
the two churches. Thousands of pilgrims
came every year to the »Österreichischer
Hilff- und Heylberg« (Austrian Mount of
Succour and Salvation) in the Dunkelsteinerwald Forest. The pilgrimage trail
still exists today with its 15 Baroque rosary stations between »Little Bethlehem« in Schönbühel und Maria Langegg.
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ROSSATZ-ARNSDORF
Stretching out opposite Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen and Spitz is the market community of Rossatz-Arnsdorf. The annual apricot blossom season is a special
experience in Austria's largest apricot-growing community. At the end of March/
early April the countryside along the apricot mile is transformed into a fragrant
red-white sea of blossom. However, with their inviting apricot orchards and romantic lanes, the picturesque localities are also a rewarding travel destination
for the summer solstice in June and for the apricot harvest in July. A variety
of fruity delicacies can be purchased here direct from the producers. Bearing
witness to the long history is the parish church of Rossatz, the core of which is
Romanesque. Another of the architectural gems is Rossatz Castle. The Church
of St. Lorenz houses one of the oldest bells in Lower Austria. Equally worthy of
admiration is a Roman road and fortification tower in Bacharnsdorf.
www.rossatz-arnsdorf.at
A formidable object of contemporary art is the »Wachauer Nase« (Wachau Nose)
at St. Lorenz ferry station. The nose, which was manufactured from concrete by
the artist group Gelatin, has nostrils that can be entered and is consciously designed to surrender to the influences of nature. The nose changes its appearance
a little, depending upon the season and the water level of the Danube.
A fabulous view across the Dunkelsteinerwald Forest and into the Danube Valley
is enjoyed from the »Seekopf«, a lookout point that towers above the Wachau
World Heritage Trail at a height of 671 metres. A wonderful camping site also
exists on the Danube opposite Dürnstein (Tel 0676/848814800, open from Easter
until 31.10.).
SPECIAL TIPS
APRICOT MILE
A network of trails through the apricot orchards of Austria's largest apricot-growing community. The western apricot mile
runs from St. Johann via Oberarnsdorf,
Hofarnsdorf and Mitterarnsdorf through
to Bacharnsdorf. The villages of Rührsdorf, Rossatz und Rossatzbach make up
the eastern apricot mile.
Tel 02714/6217 | www.marillenmeile.at
RUPERTIWINZER
DANUBE SALMON BREEDER
Since 2003, the »Rupertiwinzer« have
stood for first-class Wachau wines from
the best vineyards on the southern bank
of the Danube, combined with the unique
flair of the World Heritage Region.
www.rupertiwinzer.at
On account of his passion for breeding
Danube salmon (Huchen), Josef Fischer
of the Fischer wine estate is also known
as »Huchenpepi«. Tip: Wine tastings and
visits to the fish farm.
Tel 02714/6229 | www.huchenfischer.at
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41
THROUGH WETLANDS AND GARDENS
Walks through the renaturalised alluvial forest along the cut-off meanders of
the Danube reveal the enormous variety of the world of fauna and flora. It is
here that rare fish species such as nase, streber or the famous Danube salmon
have found a habitat and sanctuary once more.
A splendid view of the wetlands and the northern bank of the Wachua can be
enjoyed from the Panoramic Trail. Leading along the edge of the forest from
Rührsdorf to Rossatzbach, this is the perfect spot for pleasure walkers.
RIVERSIDE CHURCHES
A route of cultural and historical interest connects the churches of the community of Rossatz-Arnsdorf. It is also easy to navigate by bike. The tour begins with the parish church of Rossatz, which is Gothic with a Romanesque
core. The next stop is the branch church in St. Lorenz, which can be visited
every Friday from 5 p.m. until 6 p.m. The Gothic chapel of St. Catherine in
Mitterarnsdorf can be admired at any time. In neighbouring Hofarnsdorf, St.
Rupert impresses with a wonderful stone pulpit and paintings by »Kremser
Schmidt«.
The last stop on the trail through the community of Rossatz is the branch
church of St. Johann in Mauerthale (the keys are available in the house opposite).
Legend has it that, because of this pilgrimage destination, the Devil wanted
to dam up the Danube in order to flood the church. Today, the Wachau railway
runs through part of this »failed« damming attempt – the tunnel through the
so-called »Devil's Wall« is the shortest railway tunnel in Austria.
INTERESTING FACTS
SLOW LIGHT
With her project »Slow Light«,
Vorarlberg artist Siegrun Applet has
created art in the form of light. The
churches in St. Johann, Hofarnsdorf
and St. Lorenz have been illuminated
anew.
OUR RECOMMENDATION:
Landgasthaus Essl Winzerstüberl
Rührsdorf 17 | Tel 02714/6384 | www.winzerstueberl.at
Weingut Polz
Rührsdorf 22 | Tel 02714/6326 | www.polzwachau.at
INTERESTING FACTS
LIFE NATURE WACHAU
Tributary branches that flow all year
round are a rarity along the Danube. The
three residual backwaters of the Venedigerau and the Pritzenau wetlands, as
well as the pools of Schopperstatt, Anzug
and Sportplatz have been reconnected
with the Danube and offer spawning
grounds to countless fish species. Danube salmon, Danube roach, striped ruffe
and nase have again found a habitat and
sanctuary. Threatened species such as
kingfishers, beavers, dragonflies and
amphibians also benefit from the linking
of water bodies between Rührsdorf and
Rossatz. Walks through the wetlands
reveal the great diversity of the flora and
fauna.
www.life-wachau.at
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MAUTERN AN DER DONAU
florianschulte.com
florianschulte.com
www.mautern-donau.at
Mautern's roots stretch far back to Roman times, during which the village was
once a Roman military camp. The Romans were also responsible for bringing the
art of wine-growing to the »Limes«, the northern border of the Roman Empire on
the Danube. The area surrounding the Roman settlement of Favianis, as Mautern
was known back then, offered the best conditions for this, and the wine cellars
dating back to Roman times are still safe from flooding today. It is for this reason
that St. Severin, who settled in Mautern in the 5th century A.D., called his hermitage »Ad Vineas« (To the Vineyards). Today, between Roman walls and vineyards, award-winning innkeepers serve their guests the best from the kitchen
and the wine cellar. The traces of the early »vintners« can be admired in
»Favianis-St. Severin« Roman museum. Mautern has always been situated on
an important trading route: As early as the 15th century, the locality was connected to Stein via a wooden bridge – the first Danube bridge in Lower Austria.
Today's Danube bridge, a steel-framed bridge, was constructed in 1895.
In the atmospheric town centre, you can stroll past attractive burgher houses.
Here, at the gateway to the Wachau, the traditional Wachau costume is also at
home, and those who wish to admire golden bonnets and »Kalmuck« jackets
are in the right place at the »Trachtenmuseum« (Costume Museum). Attracting
attention at the so-called »Rotes Kreuz« (Red Cross) on the Wachau World
Heritage Trail is a stone sculpture. Sculptor Peter Paszkiewicz has given himself the task of uniting basic shapes – the concave, the convex and the straight
line – in a block of granite. He invites the observer to touch, understand and
take a seat.
PLEASURE TIPS
LANDHAUS BACHER
NIKOLAIHOF
The Nikolaihof is one of the oldest wine
estates in Austria and one of the top culinary addresses in the Wachau. The multi-award-winning wines are pressed in
accordance with the bio-dynamic criteria
of the Demeter Association and partially
processed by a historic wine press. The
modern guest house is only a few steps
away.
Tel 02732/82901 | www.nikolaihof.at
Lisl Wagner-Bacher's »L andhaus
Bacher« ranks among the world's best
culinar y addresses. Award-winning
haute cuisine composed of select ingredients, enhanced with regional and
Mediterranean accents, served in a comfortably elegant atmosphere and an idyllic garden dining area.
Tel 02732/82 937
www.landhaus-bacher.at
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ROMAN MUSEUM
Many archaeological finds in Mautern testify to the long presence of the Romans
and the fortified settlement of Favianis, which later formed the foundation for
Mautern. The Roman Museum in the Baroque granary displays lovingly collected
finds of drinking glasses and vases, jewellery and clay pots. Children, in particular, have fun in the »Roman room« with faithfully reproduced murals and in the
kitchen, with genuine crockery from five centuries. Opening times: Apr – Oct, Thu – Sat
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., Sun 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., group guided tours
possible with prior notification (Tel 02732/83151).
GOLDEN BONNET MUSEUM
Not as old, but no less valuable from a cultural perspective, are the many
golden bonnets that are to be admired in the Mautern Costume Museum
(Trachtenmuseum) in the Old Chapel of St. Margaret. Visits by prior telephone
reservation only. Tel 02732/72643. www.mautern-donau.at
florianschulte.com
MAUTERN ROMAN HALL
Mautern Roman Hall (Römerhalle) has established itself as a versatile event
room in the region. In addition to weddings and corporate events, it also plays
host to regular concerts and cultural events. Tel 02732/83151
www.roemerhalle.at
NATURE AND STONE
An interesting overview of the types of stone and diversity of flora and fauna to be
found in Lower Austria can be gained while hiking along the »Nature and Stone«
themed trail. During a walk lasting from 2.5 to 3 hours, panels provide a great
deal of information on shrubs and rock types, various bird and bat species and
the deadwood habitatz.
RIVERSIDE CHURCHES
In addition to the parish church of Mautern, a visit to the medieval chapel of
St. Margaret as well as the branch church in Hundsheim is worth your while.
OUR RECOMMENDATION:
Landhaus Bacher ****
Südtirolerplatz 2 | Tel 02732/82937 | www.landhaus-bacher.at
Nikolaihof Wachau & ad vineas Gästehaus
Nikolaigasse 3 | Kainzstr. 14 | Tel 02732/82901 | 0676/4331828
www.nikolaihof.at | www.advineas.at
INTERESTING FACTS
SEVERIN OF NORICUM
It is probable that he came from
Italy. He is also thought to have been
of noble descent, and yet Severin of
Noricum opted to live as a monk. The
saint ultimately chose »Ad Vineas«
as his place of retreat, a hamlet in
the vineyards of Mautern, formerly
known as Favianis. As Eugippius,
his student, reported on the life of
this cross-cultural man, it was here
that he founded his monastery and,
from his hermitage, arranged for the
distribution of food and clothing and
brought about the release of many a
prisoner of war.
The themed trail through Mautern
begins at the Roman Hall.
florianschulte.com
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GOLD BONNETS & KALMUCK JACKETS
The Wachau festival costume is one of the few Austrian traditional costumes to be worn by the population without interruption since its emergence in the Biedermeier period. The gold bonnet (Goldhaube) embellishes the festive dress for women,
while the Kalmuck jacket (Kalmuckjanker) is typical for the men.
SILK AND BROCADE
The traditional everyday costume for women in the Wachau is a blue printed dirndl, which
is worn with a white blouse with frilled sleeves and a dark blue apron.
By way of contrast, on festival days and on special occasions, where the ecclesiastical and
the secular come together, a festive dress is worn by the women of the Wachau.
Small patterned or silk or brocade material with a woven pattern is used for this elegant
costume. Worn with the long, ample skirt is a spencer-type top with puffed sleeves which,
like the collar, are edged with frills. Placed in the décolleté is a fluted or lace insert. The
apron is made of a matching, single-coloured fabric.
GOLDEN BONNET
The jewel of the festival costume is the golden bonnet (Goldhaube), an elaborate creation
handcrafted from brocade, gold braid and lace. The golden bonnet, which is also part of
the traditional costume in other regions, arrived in the Wachau some 200 years ago. The
wives of very wealthy citizens, ship owners and wine-growers of that time had these works
of art made for them. This skill is only practised by a small number of bonnet makers today.
CHECK, MOTHER OF PEARL AND FEATHER GRASS
A typical component of everyday Wachau costume is the Kalmuck jacket (Kalmuckjanker).
The robust fabric from which this jacket is made is said to have been used as saddlecloth
by the Kalmyk horsemen and thus imported into the region.
Impressed by the quality of the material, the boatmen used it to make jackets for their
everyday work wear. The vintners were also soon convinced of its properties. With its typical pattern – a small white/brown check – and mother of pearl buttons, it has been part of
the traditional Wachau costume ever since. To this day, it is still worn with black trousers
and a white cotton shirt.
On their heads, Wachau men wear a round, black hat with a narrow, curved brim, decorated
with feather grass (Steinfeder). This protected type of grass may only be picked for use with
the Wachau costume.
SHOPPING TIPS
Traditional costume fabric: Kaufhaus Gurtner, Hauptstraße 26, Spitz
Kalmuck design & fabric: Brigitta Lipold – LebensKunstRaum Krems
Eisentürgasse 3-5, Krems | www.lipold.at
Wachau costumes:
Gerda Gartler – Steiner Landstraße 24, Krems
www.meisterstrasse.at/mode-nach-mass
Theresa Hirtzberger – Kremser Str. 8, Spitz
www.theresahirtzberger.com
Gold bonnets (upon request):Elfriede Kristament, Mautern | Tel 02732/72643
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THE JOY OF MOVEMENT
WACHAU WORLD HERITAGE TRAIL
The most beautiful views in the Wachau are to be seen when hiking on the Wachau World
Heritage Trail. Over the course of 14 stages, the 180-kilometre-long hiking trail links every
community in the region. The route connects three monasteries, 20 castles, ruins and palaces,
the wine-growing regions of the Wachau and Kremstal Valley, as well as Jauerling Nature
Park and the Dunkelsteinerwald Forest (interactive tour planner at www.welterbesteig.at).
PILGRIMAGE AND TOUR APP
Three ferries (Rossatz-Dürnstein, St. Lorenz-Weißenkirchen, Arnsdorf-Spitz) bring hikers
from one bank to the other. Hiking enthusiasts who wish to create their own tours, are advised to download the »Wachau Touren App« (Wachau tour app), which will provide help in
selecting hikes on the Wachau World Heritage Trail in terms of themes, difficulty, altitude
or length. www.welterbesteig.at
ON YOUR BIKE
The Danube Bike Trail (Donauradweg) is arguably one of the most famous continuous
bike trails in Europe. One of its prettiest stretches runs through the Wachau. Peaceful
village streets line the north and south banks, with bike ferries connecting the two.
Those taking a little more time can discover hidden jewels in the back country on road
and mountain bike stretches.
Practical tip: bicycles, e-bikes and even Segways can be rented from many locations.
WATERY FUN
Situated directly on the Danube and on cut-off meanders, lidos extend an invitation for
summery refreshment. Anyone choosing a sandy beach for bathing on the banks of the
Danube would be advised to first ask locals about any prevailing strong currents.
Rowing and canoeing are also possible on the Danube.
Wachau Waterskiing Club, Aggsbach-Dorf, www.wsc-wachau.at
Wachau Canoeing, Dürnstein-Oberloiben, www.kanu-wachau.at
GOLF & CLIMBING
Three golf courses lie in close proximity: the 9-hole Maria Taferl course, the Lengenfeld GC
with two 18-hole courses and the St. Pölten GC near Goldegg Castle. The Maria Taferl golf
course is situated near the famous pilgrimage basilica, standing high above the Danube.
www.gc-mariataferl.at | www.golflengenfeld.at
The climbing park in Dürnstein is a good place in which to learn and practise rock climbing.
Climbing is only permitted in designated climbing parks.
www.alpenverein.at/krems/klettern/wachauklettern
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GÖTTWEIG ABBEY
Anyone travelling upstream on the Danube does not require a map to know
where the Wachau World Heritage Region begins. High on a hill, Göttweig Benedictine Abbey beams out like an illuminated signpost. Most impressive in the Baroque abbey, which was founded in 1083, is the monumental imperial staircase
with famous frescoes by Paul Trogers, the abbey church and former regency
and imperial rooms.
INFO ABOUT
GÖTTWEIG ABBEY
3511 Stift Göttweig
Tel 02732/85581-0
www.stiftgoettweig.at
The collection of prints and drawings comprises some 30,000 works by European masters – the largest collection in Austria outside the Albertina. Annually
new selections of these are presented in the special changing exhibitions. Take a
browse through Göttweig Abbey: Since 2006, sections have been digitalised and
made available on the Internet.
www.gssg.at
Serving as a backdrop for atmospheric concerts and events are the abbey restaurant, the church, the courtyard and the various rooms of the abbey. Highlights
every summer are the open-air concert »Elina Garanca
ˇ & Friends: Music under
the Stars« in the abbey courtyard or Advent Magic at Göttweig.
APRICOT CULTURE
Centuries of experience in forestry and horticulture and the unusual setting
in the midst of nature helped provide the Benedictine monks from Göttweig
Abbey with considerable expertise in tree cultivation. Today the Abbey has a
sustainable diversity in its forests. One species of note is the giant sequoia
population in the vicinity of Paudorf. More than 50 guest tree species from all
over the world can be admired in the arboretum, which was only founded in
1980. It is here that the Göttweig forest school (Göttweiger Waldschule) is being
established, bringing both young and old closer to the vitally important forest. Right next to the enclosure lies an especially »fruitful« wood: an orchard
with old varieties of apricot from the Wachau. For several years now this orchard has been open during the warm season. In addition to fruit, the orchard
also grows herbs, which are processed in the abbey restaurant as soon as
they have been gathered. You can learn all about the apricot on the »MarillenErlebnisweg« (Apricot Experience Trail) in adjoining Angern. Along the trail
are apricot trees of up to 17 metres in height owned by Weinhof Aufreiter in
Angern. The views toward Göttweig Abbey and a visit to the Wetterkreuz
Church above Hollenburg are rewarding.
www.marillenweg.at
A VISIT TO THE MONASTERY
In the course of its 900-year history, the Benedictine monastery has not only
been active in looking after what today amount to 30 parishes in the region,
some of which are up to an hour’s drive away. It has also established itself
as a spiritual and cultural centre. More can be discovered in the »Monastery Life« permanent exhibit where visitors can trace the daily routine of the
40 monks: from the 6 a.m. vigil to vespers at 6 p.m., guests are also invited to
join in prayer.
The monastery is open to everyone. Those who are specifically seeking peace
and contemplation will find inner balance with courses on fasting or spiritual
exercises. For guests who wish to switch off from daily life without taking a
specific course, the »A visit to the Monastery« (Zu Gast im Kloster) course
is available from March until October. This mix of plenty of leisure time, the
unique atmosphere on Göttweig Mountain, the opportunity to participate in the
monks' choral prayer or to have a discussion with a monk brings rest to body
and soul. | Tel 02732/85581-0
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Heavenly peace, delightful nature and fascinating insights and outlooks
can be enjoyed while hiking on the Wachau World Heritage Trail.
Past picturesque wine-growing villages and pretty Renaissance towns, through
shady sunken lanes and sun-drenched vineyards, past flower-filled gardens
to magnificent cultural monuments, always with a view of the winding river
valley – Wachau World Heritage Trail has greatly enriched the offerings for exercise lovers in the Wachau.
Over 14 stages, distributed across some 180 kilometres, it connects the most
beautiful spots in the Wachau. Roughly 14 days are required to leisurely explore
the Wachau in its entirety on foot. The southern and northern banks can each
be hiked in approx. one week. Three ferries make it possible to cross from the
northern bank to the southern one.
Among the route's highlights are the idyllic vineyard hikes along the famous
primary rock terraces. Probably the most far-reaching view can be enjoyed from
the lookout post on the Jauerling, at a height of 960 metres, one of the highest
points along the entire course of the Danube. The Jauerling Circuit can be added
as a bonus for anyone with even more stamina and time on their hands.
The Wachau-Nibelungengau-Kremstal
app is recommended for simple and convenient planning of tours via Smartphone.
More extensive information, as well as
detailed route descriptions and GPS
tracks is available for downloading from
The exact route descriptions, all information and GPS tracks are available for
downloading under www.welterbesteig.at
Among the noteworthy attractions and rewarding stopping off points are the
Aggstein Castle ruins or the Benedictine abbeys of Göttweig and Melk. Incidentally, the Way of St. James runs between the two abbeys.
WACHAU.HIATA
Anyone also wishing to learn interesting details about the Wachau during
their hike should find out about guided hikes with certified »Wachau.Hiata«
wine and hiking guides. Their name goes back to the vineyard custodians,
whose job it once was to protect the most precious and noble property in the
Wachau: the grapes. The Wachau.Hiata are all connoisseurs and lovers of the
region, who knowledgably and charmingly take care of their Wachau visitors
and show them the region from its friendliest side. A diverse programme with
different thematic focuses is offered every year.
www.wachau-hiata.at
The exact dates, route descriptions and contact details are currently to be
found under www.welterbesteig.at.
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GOOD NEIGHBOURS
Good neighbours are valuable. The people of the Wachau know this too and
are rightly proud of theirs.
Both upstream and downstream, in the Dunkelsteinerwald Forest and the
Southern Waldviertel region, there are cultural treasures and beauties of
nature that reward anyone visiting the Wachau.
LEGENDARY NIBELUNGENGAU
Lying upstream from the Wachau is the Nibelungengau region. Its name comes
from the »Nibelungenlied« or Song of the Nibelungs, in which Rüdiger von
Bechelarn, and hence Pöchlarn, are made famous. Providing a reminder of
this is the Nibelung Memorial (Nibelungendenkmal) at the Danube Pier. A famous son of the town is the painter Oskar Kokoschka.
Every April, revues and cabarets are held at the »Ybbsiade« festival, in the
upstream town of Ybbs. The hydropower plant at Ybbs-Persenbeug and its
system of locks is equally worth seeing. An exhibition immerses visitors into
the fascinating world of electricity generation from hydropower.
On the other bank of the Danube, in Artstetten Castle, heir apparent Franz
Ferdinand and his wife Sophie found a highly picturesque final resting place.
The Baroque castle and museum at Leiben are worth a visit too.
High above the Danube lies the scenic pilgrimage site of Maria Taferl, with its
miraculous image and pleasant guesthouses. Towering just a short walk from
Melk is the Renaissance Schallaburg Castle. The Dunkelsteinerwald Forest
idles in the back country of the southern bank of the Danube.
RIVERSIDE HIKES
Over a total length of 110 kilometres, the Nibelungengau long-distance trail
runs north and south of the Danube. It links the Upper Austrian Danube Trail
in the west with the Wachau World Heritage Trail in the east. From panoramic
paths, it leads through attractive countryside and to excursion destinations
steeped in history. The eight stages are between 20 and 22 kilometres in length –
there is a route to suit every ability and taste.
On the northern bank, the trail starts in Sarmingstein. Over some 80 kilometres, it travels through forests and a wildly romantic gorge, before arriving
in Leiben. In adjoining Emmersdorf, the Nibelungengau long-distance trail ultimately converges with the Wachau World Heritage Trail.
The southern route between Ybbs and Pöchlarn offers 30 kilometres of
comfortable hiking trails, which largely run directly along the Danube towpath. All route descriptions, information and GPS tracks can be found under:
www.nibelungengau.at.
KREMSTAL VALLEY
The Kremstal Valley extends along both sides of the Danube in the area around
Krems, between the Wachau and the Kamptal Valley. The region is shaped by
wine cultivation, and its wine cellar alleys and sunken lanes can be explored
especially well on bicycle or foot.
There is plenty to see: from the splendid Göttweig Abbey to the Senftenberg
castle ruin, from wine worlds and nature trails to the cultural treasures of
Krems and its surroundings. | www.das-kremstal.at
NIBELUNGENGAU
INFO-CENTRE YBBS
Stauwerkstraße 86, 3370 Ybbs
Tel 07412/55233
Open: May – September
INTERESTING FACTS
TIP FOR ANDROID SMARTPHONE
AND IPHONE USERS
For easy and convenient route planning, we recommend the WachauNibelungengau-Kremstal app.
Fur ther information as well
as detailed route descriptions
with GPS tracks are available at
www.nibelungengau.at.
MIDSUMMER FIRE
The Wachau and the Nibelungengau
celebrate the summer solstice with
impressive fireworks, torches and
midsummer bonfires. An especially
good vantage point for enjoying the
fiery spectacle is from a ship.
www.sonnenwende.at
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AROUND THE WACHAU
SCHALLABURG RENAISSANCE CASTLE
An excursion to the south is worth the effort. Starting from Melk, just five
kilometres in this direction are enough to be able to dip into the flair of Italian
palazzi. It was the noble Losenstein family that expanded the medieval great
hall into the most beautiful Renaissance castle north of the Alps as their ruling
seat. This composition of a residential castle from the Romantic period, the
Gothic chapel and the armoury hall, and the arcade courtyard with its impressive terracotta adornments, is architecturally unique.
The historically interesting ambience of the Schallaburg offers an impressive
backdrop for annually changing, top-class exhibits on topics of cultural history,
ethnography and contemporary issues. A walk in the historic garden provides
fascinating insights into Renaissance garden art. A programme of events for
the entire family, in which juice and cider – flagships of the region – play a
major role, invites repeat visits.
www.schallaburg.at
PROVINCIAL MUSEUM AND
CULTURAL DISTRICT IN ST. PÖLTEN
St. Pölten is one of Austria's oldest cities and at the same time the youngest
provincial capital. It wasn't until 1986 that St. Pölten was elevated to the provincial capital of Lower Austria. Particularly the architectural contrasts are
impressive: Baroque and Art Nouveau characterise the city centre. The City
Hall shows a cross-section of Austrian architectural history – and is a good
starting point for a sightseeing walk: a Romanesque vault, Gothic niches, a
Renaissance tower, a Baroque facade and the »imperial stucco ceiling« in the
Mayor's room. Move on across Herrenplatz to the fresco-adorned cathedral,
the pompous Baroque Palace of the English Maiden, the Carmelite courtyard,
the historic Lion Pharmacy and the handsome Art Nouveau houses. Contemporary architecture comes as a surprise in the Government Quarter and the
cultural district. The Bell Tower is a highly visible landmark. The Festspielhaus
(festival theatre) is home to the Tonkünstler Orchestra. The Lower Austrian
Provincial Museum is located in the midst of the Government Quarter, in the
so-called »State House«. The natural history section presents the diversity of
the Lower Austrian province and highlights distinctive features of the region.
The art history section gives an overview of the development of art in Austria,
with a special focus on Lower Austria. |
www.st-poelten.gv.at
MOBILITY DAY IN THE WACHAU
An innovative mobility concept makes usage of cars in the Wachau entirely superfluous.
With the Wachau Day Pass, all towns and attractions are conveniently accessible in an
environmentally friendly way.
THE »NIEDERÖSTERREICH-CARD«
Holders of the Niederösterreich-CARD (Lower Austria Card) receive this Day Pass once
per year and for one day can ride free of charge on the comfortable low-floor buses of
the Wachau lines WL 1 to WL 7, as well as easily changing to the other bank of the Danube
with three ferries. In Spitz and Weißenkirchen the ferries also carry cars; in Dürnstein
just bicycles.
Discover Lower Austria's treasures
with the NÖ CARD.
Tel 01/535 05 05
www.niederoesterreich-card.at
Wachau Day Passes are available for purchase in the buses, on the ferries, as well as in
the Wachau Info Centre in Melk, the information desks in Spitz and Emmersdorf, and at
Krems Tourismus. All timetables at www.vor.at
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GRAFENEGG CASTLE
About 15 km from Krems, the turrets and battlements of Grafenegg Castle
stand out in the midst of a huge landscape park. Right next to it: puristic lines
in concrete, the open air stage »Wolkenturm« and the concert hall »Auditorium
Grafenegg«, completed in 2007.
Just as the romantic historicism of Grafenegg Castle is joined to the contemporary concert buildings despite all contradictions, the programme of the annual
Grafenegg Music Festival likewise unites old and new, history and modern
times. Every summer, under the aegis of piano legend Rudolf Buchbinder, this
festival invites the public to watch and listen. Concerts with different thematic
emphases are presented. For the culinary aspect at Grafenegg Castle, Toni
Mörwald swings the baton (or cooking spoon), and whoever wants to let his
or her palate sing is in good hands with the gourmet chef and his dinner suggestions.
www.grafenegg.com
LOWER AUSTRIA'S GARDENS
33 gardens – from idyllic herbal gardens to imperial castle gardens – present
themselves collectively as »Lower Austria's Gardens«. Members include garden attractions such as the show and model gardens of the Lower Austrian
Horticultural Show »DIE GARTEN TULLN«, as well as luxuriant castle gardens
such as those of Grafenegg, Schloss Hof Palace, Artstetten, Schallaburg and
Rosenburg. The atmospheric gardens of the abbeys Melk, Altenburg, Seitenstetten, Zwettl and Klosterneuburg are all included, as well as experimental
garden projects.
One of the last remaining large wetland areas in Europe, the Danube Wetlands
National Park, is included with its floodplain adventure area »Schlossinsel«,
as is the Maissau Amethyst World with its theme gardens. The »Kittenberger
Adventure Gardens« and the »Noah's Ark« show gardens in nearby Schiltern
bei Langenlois, where primarily old cultivated plants and rarities thrive, are
well worth a visit.
www.diegaerten.at
SUGGESTED READING
EDITION ARAMO (HG.):
»WELTERBESTEIG WACHAU«
(»Wachau World Heritage Trail«)
A literary hiking companion
14 authors walked the 14 stages of the
Wachau World Heritage Trail and captured
their impressions of it. Contributions from
the following, among others: Clemens
Haipl, Lorenz Langenegger, Urs Mannhart, Mieze Medusa, Angelika Reitzer, Julian Schutting, Christoph Simon, ...
www.aramo.at
WALTER GROND (HG.):
»DRAUSSEN IN DER WACHAU«
(»Outside in the Wachau«)
The rather different travel guide
This »rather different travel guide« with
the title »Outside in the Wachau« takes
an unconventional, literary look at the
places of longing, the clichés, places and
paths in the Wachau. Among other things,
Peter Turrini tells about experiences with
Billy Wilder during their shared journey
through the Wachau.
www.haymonverlag.at
WANDERVERLAG ROTHER (HG.):
»WELTERBESTEIG WACHAU
UND JAUERLING-RUNDE«
(»Wachau World Heritage Trail
and Jauerling Circuit«)
Rother, the renowned German publisher
specialising in hiking, published the new
hiking guide »Wachau World Heritage Route
and Jauerling Circuit« the beginning of October 2011. Clear tour information, informative
route profiles, and full-colour hiking cards
showing the exact route and concise but
exact directions make all route suggestions
easily understandable. | www.amazon.at
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ON THE GO WITHOUT A CAR
On holiday you can easily leave your car behind. Especially in the
Wachau, where everyone can easily and conveniently get to all the attractions, thanks to the environmentally friendly mobility concept. With your
chosen mode of transport you can comfortably combine it all: From rental
bicycles to Danube ships, from the bus to the Wachau railway, or from
the ferry to e-bikes and Segways.
Mobility information at: www.vor.at
Walking is probably the most intense and nicest way to get to know an area.
Enjoy views and insights along the 180 km Wachau World Heritage Trail through
all the villages in the Wachau.
The well-marked 14 stages of the long distance hiking trail, as well as the 7
stages of the Jauerling Circuit, fascinate the hiker with the contrast between
gently sloped vineyards and the rugged, forested higher terrain. An interactive
hiking map with GIS routes may be found at: |
DANUBE BICYCLE PATH
The Danube bicycle path runs along the Danube, just a few steps away from it.
It follows both the north and south banks of the river on almost continuously
structurally separate bicycle paths.
A glance at the signs shows the direction for side trips to the side valleys and
to other bicycle paths.
www.donau.com
NEXTBIKE
With the »nextbike« bicycle rental system you can rent comfortable 3-speed
bicycles 24 hours a day at about 40 borrowing stations in the Wachau – on both
banks of the Danube – and return them to any desired nextbike station.
You need to register with your bank data or credit card. Bike rental for one hour
costs € 1,– and 24 hours cost € 10,–.
www.nextbike.at
E-MOBILE AND SEGWAY
»e-mobil in niederösterreich« is a large-scale initiative in Lower Austria. The
Wachau is a pioneer region in this respect as well.
City bikes or mountain bikes, supported in an environmentally friendly way by
e-motors, can be borrowed at many locations and charged up at five public
charging stations. In Spitz, there are also Segways for rental. Guided tours
(e. g. to the Aggstein Castle ruins) are offered.
www.wachau.at/e-mobil
|
www.segway-wachau.at
BUS CONNECTIONS
From the train stations in Krems and Melk, both banks of the Danube are completely accessible via two bus lines, the south bank every two hours (bus WL2),
the north bank hourly (bus WL1). The Spitzer Graben Valley is also linked with
Mühldorf (bus WL5). From Easter to 26th October, buses run to Maria Laach
and to the Jauerling Nature Park (bus WL7) or to Göttweig Abbey (bus WL4)
every weekend on demand (for as little as 1 passenger).
www.vor.at
FERRY
Between Mautern and Melk there are no bridges in the Wachau. To get to the
other bank of the Danube, you take the ferry. In Spitz and Weißenkirchen the
ferries also carry cars; in Dürnstein just bicycles. From Dürnstein, a ride with
the water taxi is also possible: With advance reservations, any location at all
can be serviced; even a vineyard tour including sampling of the wine from the
passing locations is possible.
www.wachau.at
SHIPS
The docking times of the two large shipping lines BRANDNER Schiffahrt and
DDSG are coordinated with the train and bus schedules. From the white Danube
ships you have a stunning view of the world heritage landscape. Between Krems
and Melk there are stops in Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen, Spitz, and upon request
also in Aggsbach Dorf and at the new pier in the Emmersdorf town centre. There
are also various combined offers with rail and ship.
www.brandner.at
|
www.ddsg-blue-danube.at
WACHAU RAILWAY
The Wachau railway has been operating away from the main street, between
ancient masonry, vineyards and blooming slopes, ever since 1909. Today it
connects Krems with Emmersdorf, across from Melk. As an adventure railway
it also offers nostalgic, theme or charter rides.
www.noevog.at
SLOW TRAINS
With no hurry at all, but family friendly and with lots of information, the
Krems-Wachau-Express chugs from the Krems pier through the car-free
pedestrian zone to the Art Mile.
In Dürnstein, the historic centre as well as the vineyards as far as Loiben are
along the route.
www.kuenringer.at
|
www.heurigenexpress.at
|
53
54
|
DONAU INCOMING –
YOUR RELIABLE PARTNER!
We are travel experts for the Lower Austrian Danube region and will
be glad to help you with our knowledge of the region when organising
your travel adventure.
BOOK WITH US!
From our seat in the heart of the Wachau, we put together customised travel
experiences according to your individual wishes. We can not only draw from a
large pool of regional experiences, but are also glad to utilise all our creativity
and our knowledge of the region for you, in order to make your perfect holiday
adventure possible. We offer customised packages for every customer segment!
WE MAKE IT POSSIBLE!
We have countless partners in the entire regional tourism branch whom
we know personally. Numerous winemakers and comfortable traditional wine
taverns offer informative and entertaining wine tastings. Boat trips on the
Danube are a special pleasure, either through the picturesque Wachau or starting from Vienna, heading either upstream or downstream. Active types get on
a bike, paddle or row on the Danube, or hike through the vineyards.
Are you looking for the right Austria Guide for a special guided tour, just the
right winemaker for a wine tasting, or a regional producer? Or maybe you need
ideas for a special experience in our region? If desired, we will be glad to actively
support you with your travel planning!
We are your central and competent point of contact for individual or group travel
along the Lower Austrian section of the Danube. Please contact us!
Donau Niederösterreich Tourismus GmbH
3620 Spitz/Donau, Schlossgasse 3
Tel 02713/300 60-0 | E-mail [email protected]
Further information at www.wachau.at
|
55
EVENT TIPS IN THE WACHAU-NIBELUNGENGAU-KREMSTAL VALLEY AREA
Over the course of the year, a whole string of cultural and sporting events take place in the Wachau. Some of them
attract international attention. Here is a selection of the annual festivals and events: More information at www.wachau.at
SPRING
SUMMER
WACHAU GOURMETFESTIVAL
The best restaurants in the Wachau
serve up exclusive menus in April. In addition: Cooking shows, table talks und
exceptional wine tastings.
www.wachau-gourmet-festival.at
MIDSUMMER FIRE
The summer solstice is celebrated in a
big and »fiery« way in the Wachau and
the Nibelungengau. An especially good
vantage point for enjoying the numerous
fires is from a ship.
www.sonnenwende.at
IMAGO DEI EASTER FESTIVAL
This festival in Krems is dedicated to a variety of themes connected with the Easter
ritual, with timeless music from different
ethnicities, epochs and religions.
www.klangraum.at
YBBSIADE
The »Ybbs jester« is awarded annually
at the largest cabaret festival in the German-speaking world. Well-known cabaret artists perform each year for two
weeks in April.
www.ybbsiade.at
LITERATURE AND WINE
Göttweig Abbey and the Lower Austrian
Independent Literature House (ULNÖ) in
Stein are the venues for the 2-day series
of events. | www.ulnoe.at
DANUBE FESTIVAL
On two weekends in the spring, Krems
becomes an international platform for
new performing arts and experimental
music.
www.donaufestival.at
WEINSTEINBIKEWACHAU
(»Bike the Wachau between wine
and stone«)
The mountain bike tour runs »between
wine and stone«. Two races take place
the middle of May between the high-up
wine slopes of the rear Spitzer Graben
Valley. | www.weinsteinbike.at
INT. BAROQUE DAYS AT MELK ABBEY
Each year at Whitsun the Benedictine
Monastery at Melk is filled with the sound
of Baroque music under the leadership of
chamber singer Michael Schade.
www.barocktagemelk.at
MELK SUMMER FESTIVAL
Lower Austria's oldest summer theatre
unites a sensory experience of classical
theatre with music and the unique ambience between the Danube, the alluvial
forests and Melk Abbey.
www.sommerspielemelk.at
GLATT & VERKEHRT
(»right and wrong sides«)
Austria's most important world music
festival offers traditional and contemporary folk music each July at various event
venues.
RIESLING FESTIVAL
The Riesling Festival in Weißenkirchen
takes place in the most beautiful arcade
courtyard in the Wachau, at Teisenhoferhof. | www.weissenkirchen-wachau.at
WACHAU FESTIVAL
Comedies are on the programme for this
summer theatre, which takes place at
Teisenhoferhof in Weißenkirchen in July
and August.
www.wachaufestspiele.com
WACHAU CYCLING DAYS
In mid-July, hundreds of cyclists come to
the starting line for the Wachau Cycling
Days. There is a choice of two routes with
a length of either 177 km or 97 km.
www.wachauer-radtage.at
WACHAU MARATHON
This high-class running festival is very
popular. Each year in September, about
10,000 runners explore the Wachau.
www.wachaumarathon.at
ATELIER ON THE DANUBE
Starting in 2006, Pöchlarn has been
hosting an annual 11-day symposium for
artists from around the world. Within this
framework, an international jury awards
the Pöchlarn Art Award.
www.atelieranderdonau.at
GLATT & VERKEHRT HERBSTZEITLOS
(»right and wrong sides autumn«)
A musical epilogue to the World Music
Festival Glatt&Verkehrt, in and near
the Klangraum Krems Minorite Church.
WINTER
ADVENT IN THE WACHAU
Enchanting Advent markets in the Wachau-Nibelungengau-Kremstal Valley
region get you in the mood for the loveliest family celebration of the year.
www.wachau.at
WACHAU IN ECHTZEIT
The Wachau presents itself from its most
festive side with Advent markets and a
whole series of events at monasteries,
churches, castles and wine estates, curated by Ursula Strauss.
www.wachauinechtzeit.at
DÜRNSTEIN SYMPOSIUM
Politics | Philosophy Religion
Starting on Ash Wednesday, thinkers
from around the world spend 5 days
discussing values and concepts that are
used in political discourse.
www.symposionduernstein.at
AUTUMN
EUROPEAN LITERATURE DAYS IN SPITZ
This authors' convention with an international line-up takes place annually in Spitz in
October. | www.literaturhauseuropa.eu
You can find all events
here, or under
www.donau.com/
veranstaltungen
INTERESTING FACTS
Rich cultural treasures, one of the most enchanting river valleys in Europe and an internationally renowned
wine-growing region: The Wachau, a UNESCO World Heritage Region, is a unique artwork as a whole,
and a favourite meeting place for bon vivants from all over the world. All 13 villages are connected by
the long-distance hiking trail »Wachau World Heritage Trail«, which leads you to the most beautiful spots.
Donau Niederösterreich Tourismus
Regional Office Wachau-Nibelungengau-Kremstal Valley
3620 Spitz/Donau, Schlossgasse 3
Tel +43 (0) 2713/300 60-60 | Fax Extension 30
E-mail [email protected]
www.wachau.at | www.welterbesteig.at
We will be glad to advise you
at the info points in Ybbs, Melk,
Emmersdorf, Spitz, Weißenkirchen,
Dürnstein and Krems as well.
Kamptal-WagramTullner Donauraum
Wachau-NibelungengauKremstal
Römerland
Carnuntum –
Marchfeld
Donau
Bratislava
St. Pölten
Wien
Mostviertel
Brochures, advisory service
and reservations:
CZ
SK
Donau
Linz
Bratislava
St. Pölten
D
Eisenstad
senstadt
senstad
Salzburg
Bregenz
H
Innsbruck
Graz
Klagenfurt
CH
I
SLO
IMPRINT: Editor and publisher: Donau Niederösterreich Tourismus GmbH, A-3620 Spitz/Donau. Photos: Donau Niederösterreich Tourismus GmbH, Andreas Hofer, Steve Haider/www.steve.haider.com, Klaus Engelmayer, Popp und Hackner, Gregor Semrad, Lachlan Blair, Wulz, Gerald Lechner, Niederösterreich Werbung, Lackinger, Lois Lammerhuber, Robert Herbst, Franz Hauleitner, Othmar Bramberger, Markus Haslinger/www.extremfotos.com,
Manfred Seidl, diejun, Weinhäupl, Christian Bogner, Rita Newman, wein franz, Wolfgang Stich/www.panos.at, DI Robert Herbst/www.pov.at © Naturparke Niederösterreich, Augustin Baumgartner, OÖ.Werbung/Popp, Getty Images, Konstantin Gona, as well as from our service partners. Concept, Text:
Donau Niederösterreich Tourismus GmbH, Arbeitskreis Wachau and Kinz Kommunikation, Wien. Graphic design: spreitzerdrei werbeagentur. Printing:
sandlerprint&more, A-3671 Marbach/Donau. Despite careful editing no guarantee for correctness/completeness. 2016 edition.

Wachau World Heritage Site

Transcription

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