Our
Bucket List

High above Dürnstein, the castle ruins serve as a reminder of their most famous prisoner: the English King Richard I ‘the Lionheart’, who was held captive here in 1192/93. The climb begins right in the old town and takes around 20 minutes. Once at the top, an impressive view opens up over Dürnstein, the Danube and the vineyards of the Wachau. The ruins are freely accessible all year round.

Our tip: The walk is particularly atmospheric in the early morning or towards evening, when it becomes quieter around the ruins.

When the streets are still quiet and the first light falls on the vineyards, Dürnstein reveals what is perhaps its most beautiful side. Take an early morning stroll through the old town and on into the surrounding vineyards – before the first day-trippers arrive.

The small motor ferry connects Dürnstein with Rossatz, taking pedestrians, pets and bicycles to the quieter side of the Danube in just a few minutes. Once in Rossatzbach, it’s well worth taking a stroll along the riverbank. From here, you can enjoy one of the most beautiful views back towards Dürnstein, the abbey and the castle ruins. The electric ferry operates as and when required during its opening hours.

The Apricot Trail consists of several short walking routes through the gardens and vineyards of Rossatz-Arnsdorf. It is particularly charming during the apricot blossom season in spring and around harvest time in summer. However, even outside these periods, the trails offer a lovely glimpse of the Wachau’s cultural landscape.

The panoramic trail, which is around nine kilometres long, winds its way through vineyards, orchards and historic stone terraces. Time and again, the view opens up across the Danube to Dürnstein, the abbey and the castle ruins. This easy circular walk takes about three hours and can easily be combined with a ferry trip.

If you’re looking for a more challenging alternative to the classic ascent, take the Vogelbergsteig. This demanding route leads over steep sections, rocks and secured passages to the Vogelbergkanzel and on to the Starhembergwarte. This walk requires sure-footedness, sturdy footwear and a good level of fitness. The path is not accessible in snow or ice.

A stroll through the Loiben vineyards leads to the Höhereck and the French War Memorial, which is visible from afar. It commemorates the Battle of Loiben in 1805. All around, peaceful paths, old stone terraces and famous vineyards link the history of the Wachau with its centuries-old wine-growing tradition.

On the banks of the Danube near St. Lorenz, a huge nose juts out from the landscape. This unusual artwork by the artist collective Gelitin gives the impression that a giant is hidden beneath the ground here. A visit can be combined with a cycle ride along the southern bank of the Danube, a walk to the historic church of St. Lorenz or a ferry trip.

The so-called Stoamandl Trail leads from the Oberkienstock to the 671-metre-high Seekopf. Seven large cairns line the path – traditionally adorned with hats and scarves. At the top, there is a viewing platform offering sweeping views across the Danube Valley. The hike is quite long and challenging in places; sturdy footwear and plenty of water are essential items to pack in your rucksack.