Wachau – Walking Holidays along the Danube River
Where – once upon a time – King Lionheart of England was held captive!
The Danube River is at its most picturesque in the Wachau area. A moderate climate and steep slopes form ideal conditions for lush vineyards and abundant orchards. Some of the best wines and juicy apricots in Austria grow in Wachau.
This varied hiking trail goes past steep rocks, over rolling hills, and through cultivated vineyards. A special feature of this area are the many small villages where everything centers on good food and wine. You’ll enjoy the Wachau Valley!
Tour Details: This hike requires average to above average hiking ability. You’ll walk on well-kept walking paths and footpaths. The daily walking times are 4 to 6 hours with short yet steep climbs. On several days, easier options are available. Good walking stamina is required on some stages as you’ll walk up to 5 kilometers. Comfortable and sturdy hiking boots are recommended.
Day 1 – Arrival at Krems/Stein
Day 2 – Krems – Dürnstein – vineyards and the ruins of fortress Dürnstein
The vineyards start directly on the outskirts of the town, where you’ll hike upwards. Enjoy a stunning view of the river Danube and Krems as well as the impressive Göttweig Monastery. Across the hills, you’ll reach the ruins of Durnstein Fortress, where the legend says that King Lionheart was held captive and Blondel rescued him. A final walk down to the historic town of Durnstein gets you to your hotel. 12 km and 4.5 hours to walk
Day 3 – Dürnstein – Rossatz – Weißenkirchen – Observation point on Mount Seekopf
In Dürnstein you’ll cross the river by ferry to the charming town of Rossatz. Walk past the largest apricot growing area of Austria on old tracks to Seekopf, where an unsurpassed view to the Alps awaits. Have a good rest in your Weissenkirchen hotel. Route: from Durnstein to Weißenkirchen. 11 km and 5 hours to walk
Day 4 – Rest day in Weißenkirchen
Sleep in and enjoy exploring the town on your day of rest! The town is surrounded by sunny vineyards squeezed between the Danube River and green forests. Explore the mighty gothic parish church of Weißenkirchen while sampling various pastry shops!
Day 5 – Weißenkirchen – Spitz – Vineyards and viewpoint on mount Buschandl wall
This morning a steady climb brings you up to Seiber and on to Kuhberg and to the Buschandl Wall. The route then goes downhill to Miesingbachgraben. From there walk through the manicured vineyards to Spitz. If you want, take an alternative route by walking the balcony path through the vineyards to Spitz. 12 km and 5 hours to walk.
Day 6 – Weißenkirchen – the fortress of Aggsbach – bus to Melk
Today you’ll start by crossing the Danube River by ferry and following the Buchtal Valley uphill. Shortly before you reach the pilgrimage church of Maria Langegg you join the Austrian St. James trail which you follow up to the ruins of the Aggsbach Fortress. Visit the fortress with its gruesome history. Then enjoy scenic viewpoints and a stop for traditional sausages or delectable pastry. Your charming hotel in Melk waits for you! 15.5 km and 5.5 hours to walk
Day 7 – Melk – Krems – one of the nicest boat trip along the Danube
Get ready to take some great pictures on this stunning part of the Danube River. The boat ride offers spectacular scenery. You’ll also have a chance to visit the monastery and beautiful gardens in Melk. Enjoy the boat trip to your hotel in Krems, passing by the highlights of your tour, Spitz, Dürnstein, and Krems.
Day 8 – Individual Departure from Krems
Dates self-guided: Arrival Saturday to Wednesday from April to September. Minimum person: 2 persons
Services included
- 7 overnights in 3 and 4-star hotels
- 7 x breakfast
- Luggage transfer
- Boat tour Melk – Krems
- Route-book per room
Extras: Ferry over the Danube (around Euro 7,-), Bus from Aggsbach to Melk
Book this tour with Bestseller Travel Austria!
