THE WACHAU: A WORLD HERITAGE REGION Tips, interesting facts and special features for your stay in one of Europe's loveliest river valleys

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This brochure will accompany you as your special travel guide through the Sustainability ...... 4 Wachau World Heritage Region. Alongside interesting facts about well- Krems an der Donau ...... 5 known locations, you will discover a wealth of valuable tips for pleasurable hours and pleasant excursions. Wachau apricots ...... 9 Dürnstein ...... 10 The Wachau ranks among the most famous and most beautiful natural and The Wachau and its wines ...... 12 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 Con- Weißenkirchen in der Wachau ...14 servation Diploma, and in 2000, admitted to UNESCO's World Heritage List. Spitz an der Donau ...... 17 The internationally renowned »National Geographic Traveler Magazine« even Mühldorf ...... 20 chose it as 2008's »Best Historic Destination in the World«! Wachau delicacies ...... 22

Allow yourself to fall under the spell of the Maria Laach am Jauerling ...... 24 dramatic river landscape and the diverse Aggsbach Markt ...... 26 cultural offerings. Treat yourself to precious moments in spots that inspire you to linger General map ...... 28 a little longer. Become one with an eventful Emmersdorf ...... 30 history and an emotional present, with the Melk ...... 32 harmony of conservation and innovation. Become one with a variety of culinary ad- Melk Abbey ...... 34 dresses. Awaiting you are the most beautiful Schönbühel-Aggsbach ...... 36 hotels, authentic private rooms, holiday relaxation on a wine estate, gourmet Bergern im Dunkelsteinerwald 38 cuisine of the highest order and traditional inn culture, all identified with the »Best of Wachau« seal of quality. Rossatz-Arnsdorf...... 40

Mautern an der Donau ...... 42 This accolade is only bestowed upon businesses that make a commitment to continually improve their quality and, in striving for improvement, don't forget Wachau traditional dress ...... 44 what it means to be from the Wachau. For the restaurateurs participating in The joy of movement ...... 45 the »Best of Wachau« initiative, it is a heartfelt desire to transform their guests Göttweig Abbey ...... 46 into ambassadors for the Wachau, taking their impressions, experiences and stories out into the wider world. | www.bestof-wachau.at Wachau World Heritage Trail ... 48 Good neighbours ...... 49 Whether you are travelling on foot, by bicycle, e-bike or boat: fascinating Around the Wachau ...... 50 insights open up everywhere – along with enchanting views of landscapes that delight the heart and soul. Car-free travel ...... 52 Event tips ...... 55 Have fun exploring the Wachau! 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 pre- serve 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 cut- off 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 exten- sively 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 pro- vince 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 Heri- tage Volunteers« campaign by UNESCO. www.naturpark-jauerling.at www.whvolunteers.org Wachau World Heritage Region | 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 TOURIST 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 INFORMATION the only one of the city's four gates to be preserved. 3500 Krems, Utzstraße 1 To the east of the historic centre is »Sandgrube 13 wein.sinn«, a wine adventure Tel 02732/82676 world providing insights into the past and present of wine culture. The path from Mail [email protected] Krems into the old town of Stein leads through the Krems Art Mile, which is www.krems.at | www.krems.info a rewarding stopping off point – not just for art fans.

PLEASURE TIPS

HOUSE OF THE REGIONS Get to know one another, break down bar- riers: The House of the Regions – »Volks- kultur Europa« at the Krems-Stein WEINGUT STADT KREMS (WINE ESTATE) WINZER KREMS (WINEMAKERS) Danube landing is a meeting point for re- gional folk cultures. With music, dance, With 550 years of history, one of the A wine adventure tour at »Sandgrube 13 literature, folk art, culinary specialities oldest wine producers in Austria and wein.sinn« – a meaningful journey into and the »Gallery of the Regions«, a shop Europe. the fascination of wine. selling exclusive handicrafts. Tel 02732/85015 Tel 02732/80144 Tel 02732/85511 | www.sandgrube13.at www.volkskulturnoe.at/vkeuropa/ www.weingutstadtkrems.at www.winzerkrems.at 6 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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.

A meeting point for lovers of literature is the »Unabhängige Literaturhaus« (Independent Literature House) in Krems-Stein. | www.ulnoe.at EVENTS Other stops for art and culture in the immediate neighbourhood are the Su- sanne 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)

Cultural institutions of international standing and high-quality gastronomic offer- ings 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. IMAGO DEI EASTER FESTIVAL With timeless music originating Under the new management of Florian Steininger and with established and from different ethnicities, eras and contemporary young positions, Kunsthalle Krems will in future promote an in- religions, the festival is dedicated terdisciplinary, progressive and international orientation. Starting in 2017, the to a variety of themes connected Dominican Church in the old town of Krems will also be utilised as an exhibition with the Easter ritual. space for Kunsthalle Krems. www.klangraum.at The Caricature Museum in Krems is Austria's only museum for caricatures, DONAUFESTIVAL pictorial satire, comics and cartoons. In addition to the permanent collection of the celebrated Austrian caricaturist, Manfred Deix (1949–2016), the museum Taking place on two weekends in displays changing exhibitions from renowned national and international carica- spring is Krems' international platform turists and illustrators. for innovative music and performance art. | www.donaufestival.at 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 GLATT & VERKEHRT & town of Stein. Starting in spring 2018, the Krems Art Mile will be enhanced with HERBSTZEITLOS a further exhibition site: Landesgalerie Niederösterreich (»Lower Austrian Pro- A diverse programme in attrac- vincial Gallery«). tive settings with musical voyages www.kunsthalle.at | www.karikaturmuseum.at | www.lgnoe.at of discovery around the globe. In the autumn, Glatt&Verkehrt offers an epilogue in the form of »Herbst Alongside frescoed ceilings, which can Zeitlos«. INTERESTING FACTS be admired in the churches of Krems, www.glattundverkehrt.at Dürnstein and Herzogenburg, as well KREMSER SCHMIDT as on the imperial staircase of Göttweig SOUND ART IN KLANGRAUM Martin Johann Schmidt, known as Abbey, Schmidt created countless altar- KREMS MINORITE CHURCH »Kremser Schmidt«, is undoubtedly the pieces and devotional images. The early Gothic Minorite church and only Baroque painter of international the chapter house are transformed calibre to come from Lower Austria. The www.kirchen-am-fluss.at into unique acoustic sites by sound paintings by the artist, who was born in art from internationally renowned 1718 in Grafenwörth near Krems, are artists. characterised by an atmospheric chiaro- www.klangraum.at scuro style. Wachau World Heritage Region | 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 em- bellished portals, bay windows and architectural treasures, such as the Göt- tweigerhof, 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 EVENT ceramics, Krems town history and much more.

Also on display is »Fanny vom Galgenberg«, Austria's oldest female ALLES MARILLE figurine, the second-oldest in the world. Alongside this are selected archae- (»IT’S ALL APRICOTS«) ological findings and rarities. The museum's calendar is further enhanced by Each year at the time of the apricot special changing exhibitions of contemporary artists in the monks' former harvest in July, the historic old town bedrooms on the upper floor. An exhibition room is devoted to Krems mustard. of Krems devotes a two-day festival of culinary pleasure and culture to the EU-protected Wachau apricot. THE CHURCHES Alongside apricot schnapps distil- ling, also on the programme are traditional »Zistel« basket weaving, Krems and Stein are treasure troves of sacral architecture. Largely con- jam preserving and world record at- structed on medieval foundations, some of the churches reveal the aspirational tempts at baking the longest apricot elegance of the Gothic period, such as the Piarist Church and the Bürgerspital strudel – together with music, folk church, or Baroque gloss, such as the Krems Parish Church of St. Veit. Despite dancing and a fashion show of tradi- its secularization, the Dominican Church retains much from the Romanic and tional costumes. Parallel to this, the Gothic periods. It houses »museumkrems« and the provincial gallery »Zeit Stein landing pier plays host to a »pub Kunst Niederösterreich«. An insider tip is the early Gothic sacral chamber of village« that can be reached by slow Göttweigerhof Chapel in Stein, the key to which is available from the tourist in- train from the old town. formation office at Utzstraße 1. Hard to overlook is the Baroque Parish Church www.alles-marille.at 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 is made and what accounts for its special taste. Even if the recipes themselves are well-kept secrets. Rarities from the Peter KREMS MUSTARD Hietzgern collection chronicle the mus- It is not often that the name of a town is tard production and the »Original Krems associated with a culinary product ex- Mustard«. The old barrels of »Original Krems Mus- tending far beyond the region itself. Gour- tard« can today be seen alongside other mets associate Krems an der Donau with Objects from the Mautner Markhof col- exhibits in museumkrems. A special ex- Krems wine and Krems mustard. lection prove that »Original Krems Mus- hibit has been devoted to Krems mustard. tard« is today not only valued here in Tel 02732/801-566,567, Museumkrems reveals several of the se- Europe, but also in the USA, in Australia [email protected] crets of the sweet Krems mustard, how it and South Africa. www.museumkrems.at 8 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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 Wachau World Heritage Region | 9

THE WACHAU APRICOT PLEASURE REGION

Alongside its reputation as a world class wine-growing re- gion, the Wachau has also made a name for itself as an orchard. Since 2006, the sun-blessed cul- tural landscape also calls itself the »Wachau apricot pleasure region«. Pleasure is promised by the EU-protected Wachau apricot, especially during its blossoming and harvesting pe- riod. Depending upon weather conditions, some 100,000 apri- cot trees provide a spectacle INTERESTING FACTS with the splendour of their pink- white blossom. The countdown When purchasing apricots and apri- to their full floral display can be cot products, it is worthwhile to buy followed every year via webcam directly from the apricot farmers. on www.wachau.at Here, you will receive the delicious fruits and can also ask for infor- Anyone wishing to savour the unique taste of the much-coveted Wachau apricot mation from the apricot farmers is advised to visit during the harvest period in July. themselves. You'll find them from Emmersdorf to Gedersdorf and Some 170 hectares of apricot orchards from 21 municipalities produce the from Melk through to Hollenburg. original Wachau apricot yield. The largest apricot-growing municipality in the »Genussregion« signs at the apri- Wachau is Rossatz-Arnsdorf. Two-thirds of the harvest is sold directly from the cot farms and farm signs from the farm, the rest is processed into distillates, liqueurs, jams and juice. »Wachau Apricot Association« iden- tify authorised apricot farmers. If Krems apricot farmer Harald Aufreiter takes care of the fragile fruits, and also you wish to plant a genuine Wachau of the around 1,000 trees in his own apricot orchards. He only cultivates the apricot tree, saplings are available fruity old Wachau varieties such as the Krems Apricot or the Klosterneuburg for purchase all year round from the Apricot. While in Krems an entire festival takes place mid July under the slogan shop of Göttweig Abbey or at Hick »Alles Marille« (»it’s all apricots«) and the Spitz apricot festival or »Marillen- plant nursery in Weißenkirchen. kirtag« 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.

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: www.wachauermarille.at 10 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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 Monas- tery. 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.

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 TOURIST castle above the town. Legend has it that he was freed upon payment of a ran- som by his faithful minstrel, Blondl. INFORMATION A detour to the wine cellars of the Wachau domain is rewarding. The interes- 3601 Dürnstein 25 ting cellar tour ends with a good glass of wine in a magnificently restored Tel 02711/219 Baroque »Kellerschlössel«. Mail [email protected] www.duernstein.at 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 Dürn - stein, the wine-growing villages of Oberloiben and Unterloiben, across the WACHAU SAFFRON IN LOIBEN SCHMIDL BAKERY & CONFECTIONARY vineyards, via Loibenberg with its pano - ramic view of Göttweig Abbey. It is pos- Wachau saffron production and show gar- A traditional Wachau business, in which sible to organise wine tastings directly den in Unterloiben/Dürnstein. In addition to the famous »Wachauer Laberl«, a round on the mountain, as well as a special the spice, Wachau saffron-red wine choco- bread roll made of rye and wheat flour, programme for groups. late, saffron honey, saffron beer and saffron was created in 1905. vinegar are also available to be sampled and Tel 02711/224 Tel 0676/512 48 25 | www.kuenringer.at purchased. | www.wachauer-safran.at www.schmidl-duernstein.at Wachau World Heritage Region | 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 Ba- roque 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. Dürn- stein 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 con- structed 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 EXCURSION TIP 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 CANOE AND STAND UP PADDLE New Design University St. Pölten. The Wachau can be appreciated www.domaene-wachau.at from a very special perspective when »hiking« on the river itself. In this way, it is possible to explore quiet RICHARD THE LIONHEARTED coves, isolated islands as well as trib- utaries of the Danube. Greg Wimmer More insight into the life of Richard the Lionhearted is provided by a signposted offers this experience either as part path, which leads from Dürnstein up to the ruin. Not a legend, but rather real- of a canoe trip or by stand up pad- ity, is the fact that Duke Leopold V. received a generous ransom for the release dleboarding – SUP for short. SUP is of the English king with which, among other things, the town of Wiener Neu- a trendy new sporting discipline from stadt in the south of Lower Austria was built. Hawaii, whereby a sense of balance is developed and all of the body's major muscle groups are strength- FERRIES IN THE WACHAU ened. Which participants are eligible for a river tour is up to the trainer’s From Easter until mid October, a bike ferry connects Dürnstein with Rossatz. discretion. Beginners' courses are Timetables can be found under www.faehre-wachau.at or Tel 0676/370 9633. conducted in nearby calm waters or coves of the Danube. www.kanu-wachau.at/sup/ OUR RECOMMENDATION: BEST OF WACHAU – BUSINESSES THE BEST ADDRESSES FOR DINING AND OVERNIGHT STAYS 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 12 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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 vir- tually 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 Mid- dle 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, ut- most quality awareness and knowledge of the climate and terroir. Wachau wine- makers 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 cul- tivate 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 de- signed 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 vino - theques 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 Wachau World Heritage Region | 13

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 wine- makers you can visit without making an appointment, which wine tavern or »Heu- riger« 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 au- tumn), 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. www.welterbesteig.at 14 | Wachau World Heritage Region

WEISSENKIRCHEN IN DER WACHAU

The picturesque wine-producing village has long had a special position. Weißen- kirchen 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, Wösen- dorf 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, TOURIST it is certain that two winemakers from Weißenkirchen played a significant role in the boom of Wachau winegrowing: pioneers Josef Jamek and Franz Prager. INFORMATION Alongside Wilhelm Schwengler and Franz Hirtzberger, the two are also found- ing fathers of »Vinea Wachau«. The members of this association of winemakers 3610 Weißenkirchen, Wachaustraße 242 commit themselves to the promotion and conservation of Wachau viticulture Tel 02715/2600 and to the fulfilment of the utmost quality criteria. Mail [email protected] Also lying at the very top of the romantic spectrum is Wösendorf, with its sleepy www.weissenkirchen-wachau.at 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

PRANDTAUERHOF WIESER WACHAU Pleasure of the highest order is offered The homemade schnapps and jams, fine WACHAU CHILLI by the Holzapfel family in Joching: Prand- chocolate, Arabica coffee from the in- A multitude of home-grown chilli varieties tauerhof ranks among the leading wine house roastery and natural cosmetics is available from Hick plant nursery in estates in the Wachau. Also of note is the from Johanna and Markus Wieser are Weißenkirchen, with 5 categories ranging estate's own distillery, the fine brandies successfully marketed throughout Eu- from »soft« through to »2hot«. of which win awards year upon year. rope. Tel 02715/2291 | www.hick-wachau.at Tel 02715/2310 | www.holzapfel.at Tel 02715/2544 | www.wieser-wachau.at Wachau World Heritage Region | 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 cotta ones are in the Weinstadtmuseum viewed by others as religious symbolism: from there after the thaw. (wine-growing town museum) in Krems. The persecution of Christ by henchmen, They have also been called stags or who are represented by horses. Seen in But the »hares« do not look at all like »steeds«. What some see as an homage this light, the story of the rabbits in the long-eared creatures – the original terra- to the church donor, Siebenrössl, are 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 vine - yards 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.

FERRIES IN THE WACHAU 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 PLEASURE TIP hill with observation tower on the Wachau World Heritage Trail. WEISSENKIRCHEN RIESLING FESTIVAL GETTING MARRIED IN THE WACHAU Rieslings from the Wachau rank The legendary Councillor Geiger and his Mariandl did it, and many famous and among the best white wines in the romantically-inclined pairs are happy to follow suit: getting married in the Wa- world. In Weißenkirchen, this is fit- chau. The picturesque river valley has always held a magical attraction for lov- tingly celebrated every August. The ers and those who wish to put the official seal on their love. This is especially traditional Riesling festival takes true in the spring, when the blossoms from thousands of fruit trees spread like place in the festive Renaissance a bride's veil across the gardens and loess terraces. A particularly romantic ambiance of the Teisenhoferhof. variant is a wedding ceremony set amid the vineyards – provided the »weather Here, the best Rieslings from the god« plays along. A tried and tested wedding venue is Weitenberg vineyard in region can be tasted, appreciated Weißenkirchen. Also popular is the combination of festivities in the historic and purchased – a culinary and mu- Teisenhoferhof and a civil ceremony at Weißenkirchen registry office. sical supporting programme com- Tel 02715/2232-227 pletes the offer. | Tel 02715/2600 www.wachau.at/heiraten | www.weissenkirchen-wachau.at www.weissenkirchen-wachau.at 16 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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 Tei- senhoferhof. 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 Baroque- style building with an altarpiece by Martin Johann Schmidt, also known as »Kremser Schmidt«.

St. Michael ultimately ranks among the oldest church establishments in Aus- tria. 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 »Schädel- pietà« (skull pietà) on the altar table in the Gothic charnel house.

An insider tip for gourmets: The chapel built by Jakob Prandtauer at Prand- tauerhof winery and restaurant in Joching.

OUR RECOMMENDATION: INTERESTING FACTS BEST OF WACHAU – BUSINESSES THE BEST ADDRESSES FOR DINING AND OVERNIGHT STAYS HARVESTING YARDS Hofmeisterei Hirtzberger Wösendorf, Hauptstraße 74 | Tel 02715/22931 | www.hofmeisterei.at OF THE WACHAU Restaurant Heinzle In the Middle Ages, the economic Wachaustraße 280 | Tel 02715/2231 | www.heinzle.at/ and cultural life in the Wachau was Hotel-Restaurant Donauwirt *** largely shaped by its monasteries. Wachaustraße 47 | Tel 02715/2247 | www.donauwirt.at Hotel-Restaurant Kirchenwirt **** Kremser Str. 17 | Tel 02715/2332 | www.kirchenwirt-wachau.at At the end of the 15th century, almost Weingut Holzapfel – Prandtauerhof three quarters of the Wachau's vine- Joching, Prandtauerplatz 36 | Tel 02715/2310 | www.holzapfel.at yards were owned by the church. In Gästehaus »Turm Wachau« order to press the wine, the monas- Auf der Burg 140 | Tel 0664/2013850 | www.turm-wachau.at teries constructed grand harvesting Hotel Garni Donauhof **** yards. At that time, harvesting yards Donaugasse 298 | Tel 02715/2353 | www.hotel-donauhof.at were established by more than 50 Hotel Weinquadrat **** Landstraße 238 | Tel 02715/20008 | www.weinquadrat.at monasteries. Many of these yards Pension »Gästehaus Heller« *** house wineries until this present day. Kremser Straße 14 | 02715/2221 | www.gaestehaus-heller.at Weingut und Ferienwohnung Pomaßl Im Schild 175 | Tel 02711/286 | www.herbstzauber.at Wachau World Heritage Region | 17

SPITZ AN DER DONAU

Like a precious collar, Spitz encircles the Tausendeimerberg – a prominent vine- yard 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 TOURIST open up the historic merchant's shop or pay a visit to the innovatively designed river navigation museum in Erlahof Castle. INFORMATION

Extending an invitation for an evening stroll is the Donaulände promenade in 3620 Spitz, Mittergasse 3a Spitz, which has been enhanced with a new light concept by the artist Siegrun Tel 02713/2363 Appelt. | www.siegrunappelt.com Mail [email protected] 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 DER BUSCH the 20th century, with old furnishings, historic merchandise, documents and Wine and apricot specialities, as well as advertising material from a traditional products from the natural cosmetic range Spitz trading house. »Die schöne Wachauerin«. Segway rental with guided tours through the Wachau. Guided tours upon request: Tel 0676/6704776 [email protected] www.derbusch.at Tel 02713/2074 www.segway-wachau.at 18 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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, Viess- ling 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 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 sculp- tured figurines, dating back to the Gothic period. PLEASURE TIP Also preserved is the Gothic style of the chapel in Schwallenbach, built in 1420. MARILLENKIRTAG 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 At the traditional Spitz »Marillen- kirtag«, homage has been paid to Wachau gave the new tower a »stone helmet« – as a form of fire protection. the Wachau apricot every summer Tip: The altarpiece of St. Sigismund was created by the famous »Kremser for more than 50 years. Visitors' pal- Schmidt«. The key can be obtained from Walter Bergkirchner, opposite the ates are tantalised every July with church. Here too, the nocturnal illumination has been designed by Siegrun delicious apricot dumplings, fruity Appelt. apricot punch and the finest apricot brandies. Among the programme's highlights is the traditional proces- FERRIES IN THE WACHAU sion of King Marillus and Princess The car ferry in Spitz-Arnsdorf connects both banks of the Danube. If the Aprikosia, which passes through the natural backdrop is not enough, a change of perspective can be gained with locality and culminates in the award- a visit to the art installation by Olafur Eliasson in the ferry cabin: a camera ing of the Golden Apricot. The festival obscura that, like the cable ferry itself, works on the river current without any is brought to a close with folk dancing electrical current. Since 2012, the River Navigation Museum in Spitz provides and songs. information about ferries, their history and their importance for the Wachau www.spitz-wachau.com 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 unfaith- ful to his wife, Adelheid, as he was faith- ful to serving his king. The former died after a brief marriage and, two months suddenly, it was seen as God's punish- to legend, this is the ghost of Adelheid, later, Heinrich married for a second ment for his deed. Ever since, a lady in who is unable to find peace because of time – despite the fact that it was cus- snow-white clothing appears at the win- her husband's unfaithfulness and who tomary to wait a whole year in those dow of the fortress ruins every year on constantly wails: »Nit ein Jahr!« (Not times. When Heinrich then also died the night of Heinrich's death. According even a year!) Wachau World Heritage Region | 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: BEST OF WACHAU – BUSINESSES INTERESTING FACTS THE BEST ADDRESSES FOR DINING AND OVERNIGHT STAYS Gasthaus Mariandl ELIT – EUROPEAN Kirchenplatz 2 | 02713/2376 | www.gasthaus-mariandl.at LITERATURE DAYS Gasthaus Prankl – Altes Schiffmeisterhaus ***S Hinterhaus 16 | Tel 02713/2323 | www.gasthaus-prankl.at Every year, Spitz Castle becomes a Café-Konditorei Bruckner stage for the European Literature Hauptstraße 9 | Tel 02713/2329 | www.cafebruckner.at Days, the highlight of the year's ac- Strandcafe tivities of the ELit Literaturehouse Donaulände 7 | Tel 02713/2320 | www.strandcafe-spitz.at Europe. Barock-Landhof Burkhardt **** Kremser Straße 19 | Tel 02713/2356 | www.burkhardt.at Here, authors, journalists, scien- Boutiquehotel »Das WeinSpitz« In der Spitz 3 | Tel 02713/2644 | www.donabaum.at tists and cultural decision-makers Gästehaus Datzinger discuss current literary issues and Rote Torgasse 13a | Tel 02713/2493 | www.datzinger-spitz.at review interconnections and differ- Gästehaus »Weinbergblick« ences in the individual literature and Rote Torgasse 18 | Tel 02713/2168 | www.weinbergblick.at literary markets in Europe. Gasthof »Goldenes Schiff« *** Mittergasse 5 | Tel 02713/2326 | www.goldenesschiff.at www.literaturhauseuropa.eu »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

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 thou- sand buckets of wine, which amounts to approx. 56,000 litres, is what the Bavar- ing paths lead from the cobbled lanes up warded with a panoramic view over the ian monks are said to have harvested on onto the steep slopes, on the ancient stone Danube and the rooftops of the Renais- the 310-metre-high mountain. This was terraces, which have made the mountain sance and Baroque houses of Spitz, en- in a good year, of course. Narrow, wind- a sought-after location. The climb is re- abling the exertion to be quickly forgotten. 20 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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.

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 www.muehldorf-wachau.at 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 Ober- ranna Fortress. It can pride itself on never having been conquered. The high- light 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 SISSY STUMMVOLL BAKERY MUSEUM WACHAU WHISKY can be best appreciated on the Spitzer Graben »From Wine to Apricots« Pano- A museum created with a great deal of love The Kausls not only conjure up homemade ramic Trail, with its countless wine taverns and specialist knowledge, with a 17th cen- delicacies, juices, liqueurs and brandies and gourmet addresses for the purchase tury clay oven. A farmers' market takes place from the fruits at Marillenhof Kausl. A spe- of wine and apricot products. every second week in the picturesque inner cial treat at the distillery is Wachau whisky www.marivino.at courtyard of Cafe Stummvoll. in a variety of flavours. Tel 02713/8243 Tel 02713/8225 www.baeckereimuseum.at www.wachau-genuss.at Wachau World Heritage Region | 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, si - tuated 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 Spitzer Graben is the valley of superlatives. In addition to the As part of the Wachau's light project, Vorarlberg steepest vineyard terraces in the artist Siegrun Appelt has designed an installation Wachau, it is also home to the first on the path between Niederranna and Oberranna and oldest Raiffeisen bank in Aus- Fortress. Based on the spatial situation in the lo - tria. A milestone in farming history: cality – the view onto the vastness of the landscape In the second half of the 19th cen- and the star-filled sky – there is no functional light- tury, Friedrich Wilhelm Raiffeisen's ing en-route, but rather visitors are able to activate the lighting themselves revolutionary cooperative ideas as required and can walk through three-dimensional scenic images as they were also taken up in Austria. 1886 go. | www.st-or.at saw establishment of the first Raiff- eisen bank in Mühldorf in the Wachau – 13 years before the founding of the Austrian Raiffeisen OUR RECOMMENDATION: Cooperative (Österreichische Raiff- BEST OF WACHAU – BUSINESSES eisenverband). THE BEST ADDRESSES FOR DINING AND OVERNIGHT STAYS Gasthof Weißes Rössl *** Markt 17 | Tel 02713/8257 | www.7handl.at

EXCURSION TIP WEINSTEIN-BIKE In line with its motto of »between wine PILGRIMAGES and stone«, this exceptional mountain bike IN THE WACHAU tour takes you from the vineyards of the One insider's tip is the baroque Calvary hill Wachau, across the summits of the neigh- in Unterranna. bouring mountains and through the dark starts at the main square in Mühldorf and woods of the southern Waldviertel region. can easily be cycled in sections. And best Admission is free at all times. Not far from of all: you can get back down to your start- here, at the northern edge of the Jauerling The stretch between Wachau and Wald- ing point from anywhere. nature park, you will find the richly fur- viertel offers a uniquely diverse landscape. www.weinsteinbike.at nished pilgrimage church of Heiligenblut. The circular route with many great views www.weinsteintour.at 22 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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 Café- Konditorei 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 pe- destrian zone of Krems. The finest chocolates are produced without preser- vatives 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 pro- ducts 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 Wachau World Heritage Region | 23

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 at - tended 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 24 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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.

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 mirac - ulous image of »Mary with six fingers«. The virtually unchanged historic decor of the church's interior is impressive. Delights of an earthly nature are avail- www.marialaach.at able 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 culti- vates a 15-hectare fruit farm at an al- MARIA LAACH NATURE PARK HOUSE & titude of 800 m on the Jauerling, and FARMER’S MARKET JAUERLING LOOKOUT POINT produces fruit juices, nectars, cider, brandies, liqueurs and jams – har - Every Saturday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. – Warm meals served all day and the highest vested by hand when fully ripe and pro- fresh agricultural produce direct from and most beautiful view of the Danube from cessed while fresh. | Tel 02713/2855 the farm. the Wachau Terrace. | Tel 02713/30017 www.obsthof-reisinger.at www.marialaach.at www.naturpark-jauerling.at Wachau World Heritage Region | 25

JAUERLING NATURE PARK – WACHAU Sitting at an altitude of 915 metres and gazing far into the countryside – that's INTERESTING FACTS 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 THE THREE CHURCHES TRAIL Jauerling Wachau Nature Park. When the weather is clear, you can see from With historic roots, this well-marked the Carpathian range across the Ötscher mountain right through to the Watz- path traces a line between the three mann. With its seven stages, the Jauerling Circuit is suited to experienced and most distinctive churches in the Na- casual hikers alike. The detailed descriptions and GPS tracks can be found on ture Park: Maria Laach Pilgrimage the website of the Wachau World Heritage Trail. Church, the late Gothic St. Andreas

Pilgrimage Church in Heiligenblut www.naturpark-jauerling.at | www.welterbesteig.at and the fortified Gothic Weitental Church. 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 Car-free routes, expansive views run or for beginners. However, it has also already played host to the Inter- across the Jauerlinger uplands and national Ski Federation Snowboarding World Cup. Support is provided by two the Weitental Valley, and finally the ski schools – and there is also a ski chalet. Tip:Floodlit night skiing is possible hearty specialities in the town's inns from Wednesday to Saturday. most definitely provide for renewed energy. www.jauerling.at

THE POWER TRAIL Maria Laach is not just a place of PILGRIMAGES IN THE WACHAU power in the figurative sense: the It is not precisely known when pilgrimages to Maria Laach began. Church re- village well marks the start of the searchers believe it to be a tradition that goes back almost 1000 years. 1.5 km long Power Trail. The circuit was initiated by Edmund Binder, who The destination, Maria Laach Parish Church, lies on the southern slope of the senses the phenomena of earth en- Jauerling and has largely retained its medieval decor. 1380 saw construction ergy. The power of the landscape of the Gothic place of worship begin at the site of the previous church, and the can be felt at ten stations. The trail number of pilgrimages increased. Pilgrimage vows at the time of the plague leads from the »Steinernes Tor« and miraculous healings in the 18th century drew increasing numbers of pil- (Stone Gate) and the »Sternzeichen- grims to the double-winged Gothic altar and its miraculous image of »Mary platz« (Star Sign Place) via the power with the six fingers«. According to legend, the sixth finger of the Virgin Mary bench and sound station up to the always reappeared even after having been painted over. highlight – Maria Laach Pilgrimage Church. | www.kraftweg.at

OUR RECOMMENDATION: BEST OF WACHAU – BUSINESSES THE BEST ADDRESSES FOR DINING AND OVERNIGHT STAYS Dorfhotel Grüner Baum *** Am Hauptplatz 3 | Tel 02712/8303 | www.beim-ringl.at 26 | Wachau World Heritage Region

AGGSBACH MARKT

The community of Aggsbach Markt rose to fame on account of a special archae- ological 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 fish- ing industry and trade provided the inhabitants a modest wealth in those times.

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 www.aggsbach.gv.at 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 nat- ural 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 pre- historic 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 Wachau World Heritage Region | 27

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 lime- stone figurine from the Stone Age appears. Recommended for a brief journey through time: the »Venusium« is situated just a few steps away from the exca- vation 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 Niederöster- reich 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 ambi- tious long-distance hikers alike.

Anyone setting out from Spitz goes past the ruins of Hinterhaus and past Wil- lendorf, where the Venus was found, Meadows and hamlets line the route yards in Austria, the 960-metre-high and back to Aggsbach Markt. Over - to the village of Weiten and its fortified Jauerling is conquered, before one grown stone terraces and romantic church. After the lofty villages of Heili- again turns towards the Danube, where villages, such as Groisbach and Köfer - genblut and Raxendorf, the route leads the circuit ends in Spitz. ing, lie en-route to the municipality downhill towards the Spitzer Graben of Aggsbach. Over hills and through Valley, to the fortified church of Tran - GPS tracks, elevation profiles and forests, heading for Maria Laach, dorf and finally to Mühldorf. And at last stage descriptions are available on the from where the trail climbs up to Em - comes the royalty among the stages: Wachau World Heritage Trail website. mersdorf and past Rothenhof Castle. From Mühldorf past the highest vine- www.welterbesteig.at WELCOME TO THE REGION WACHAU-NIBELUNGENGAU-KREMSTAL VALLEY

Caricature Museum Krems www.karikaturmuseum.at

Winzer Krems (winemakers) www.winzerkrems.at

Artstetten Castle www.schloss-artstetten.at

Linz – approx. 80 km WELCOME TO THE REGION WACHAU-NIBELUNGENGAU-KREMSTAL VALLEY

Vienna – approx. 80 km

Caricature Museum Krems www.karikaturmuseum.at

Göttweig Abbey www.stiftgoettweig.at

Aggstein Ruin Information www.ruineaggstein.at e-bike

charging station

ship station top excursion destinations church, abbey, monastery castle, ruin

museum

ferry World Heritage trail Jauerling circuit trail Nibelungengau long-distance hiking trail Melk Abbey cycle path www.stiftmelk.at 30 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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 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 INFORMATION 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, 3644 Emmersdorf, Nr. 22 which was once a popular pilgrimage destination. Tel 02752/70010 Mail [email protected] Also worth visiting is the »Kramurigwölb« – over 2,000 exhibits from the 17th to www.emmersdorf.gv.at 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 restau- rant and the option of romantic picnics. Children love the horses, rabbits and guinea pigs. In addition, there are approx. SPECKNER BOAT TRIPS 25 red deer living on the premises. Danube adventure trips travelling down- Tel 02752/71427 stream in the 10-metre »Wachowia«, a www.gasthaus-langthaler.at 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 Wachau World Heritage Region | 31

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.

PILGRIMAGES IN THE WACHAU 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 INTERESTING FACTS not far to one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in Austria: Maria Taferl in Nibelungengau. DONKEY TREKKING OUR RECOMMENDATION: BEST OF WACHAU – BUSINESSES THE BEST ADDRESSES FOR DINING AND OVERNIGHT STAYS »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 They go by the names of Abraham, Hotel-Restaurant »Zum schwarzen Bären« **** Balduin, Kasimir or Sokrates, have Nr. 7 | Tel 02752/71249 | www.hotelpritz.at impish long ears and, good-na- Landhotel Wachau **** Luberegg 20 | Tel 02752/72572 | www.pichler-wachau.com tured and not at all stubborn, are on standby for various donkey adven- tures 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 al- lowed to refer to themselves as the proud owner of a donkey driver's li - cense – a novel idea for company and club outings. Tel 0660/3911465 www.eselabenteuer.at 32 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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.

Today, the town of Melk is also well-known far beyond the country's borders TOURIST with its top-class cultural events. Virtuosos arrive from all corners of the INFORMATION globe for the International Baroque Days at Melk Abbey, which is celebrated at Whitsun. Ambitious theatre and humorous music revues are offered every 3390 Melk, Kremser Straße 5 year by Melk Summer Festival in the Wachau Arena. Shows and cabaret can Tel 02752/51160 be enjoyed at the Kulturwerkstatt Tischlerei Melk directly in the town centre. Mail [email protected] From the crazy »Fasching« (carnival) parade, the culinary Melk »Höfefest« www.stadt-melk.at (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 MELK SUMMER FESTIVAL SWEET DELICACIES into the largest Advent calendar in the town of Melk. An extensive programme awaits Major works from world literature and The delicious »Melker Taler« (Melk Coins), visitors at the Advent village on Hauptplatz mythology, outstanding actors and a a handmade chocolate speciality and the (Main Square). Culinary delights and handi- unique atmosphere between the Danube, »Original Melker Torte« (Original Melk Cake), crafts exclusively from local producers are the alluvial forests and Melk Abbey: all a sweet temptation consisting of a fine choc- to be found in the huts. The Advent village is the ingredients that guarantee fascinating olate-almond paste with apricot jam were open during the weekends of Advent and on theatre evenings, summer upon summer. created by Café-Kondtorei Mistlbacher. New Year's Eve, respectively. Tel 02752/540 60 Tel 02752/52350 www.melkeradvent.at www.sommerspielemelk.at www.mistlbacher.com Wachau World Heritage Region | 33

RIVERSIDE CHURCHES The Wachau is a cultural landscape that has been powerfully shaped by Chris- tianity 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 inacces- sible.

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 PLEASURE TIPS 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 PROTESTANT TRACES have worked the blue and golden stones into the granite pavement of both cre- The Reformation found its way to the ative trails. Wachau in the 16th century. Virtually the entire population converted to the The Green Path leads visitors from Wachau Info Center Melk on Kremser Straße Protestant faith. Several years after through to the renovated municipal park. the »Agenda« (the church service edict) came into force in 1571, Prot- The heart of the themed trails is the Red Thread – a new one-and–a-half kilo- estants were pushed into illegality. metre long historic circuit to the 30 attractions in Melk. The point of departure From 1781 onwards, the Patent of is likewise the Wachau Info Center. Available here are folders in German and Tolerance permitted a Protestant English, information sheets in 15 other languages, as well as audio guides. belief once more. Today, the »Evan- gelische Heilandskirche« in Krems, consecrated in 1913, and the »Er- OUR RECOMMENDATION: löserkirche«, consecrated in 1959 BEST OF WACHAU – BUSINESSES for the parish community of Melk- THE BEST ADDRESSES FOR DINING AND OVERNIGHT STAYS Scheibbs (Lutheran Church and Hotel-Restaurant »zur Post« **** Reformed Church), are places of wor- Linzer Straße 1 | Tel 02752/52345 | www.post-melk.at ship for the Protestant community. Hotel Wachau **** & Restaurant »Wachauer Stube« 2010 saw the opening of the Protes- Am Wachberg 3 | Tel 02752/52531 | www.hotel-wachau.at tant Community Centre in Melk. Café Konditorei Mistlbacher Hauptstraße 1 | Tel 02752/52350 | www.mistlbacher.com 34 | Wachau World Heritage Region

MELK ABBEY

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 thou- sand 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 TOURIST 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 INFORMATION over the Danube from the balconies. Finally, the abbey park enchants the visitor with a frescoed garden pavilion, the »Paradiesgärtlein« (Little Paradise Garden), 3390 Melk, an alley of 250-year-old lime trees and many other highlights. Abt-Berthold-Dietmayr-Straße 1 Tel 02752/555-0 Every year at Whitsun, the abbey is the setting for the globally renowned »Melk Mail [email protected] Abbey International Baroque Days« or, in August, the stage for summer concerts www.stiftmelk.at 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 Wachau World Heritage Region | 35

THE ABBEY The magnificent Baroque building was constructed in the 18th century ac- cording 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 EXCURSION TIP 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 plant- SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS ings date from the 19th century, new impetus has nevertheless been given in IN MELK ABBEY 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« Alternating special exhibitions of do- mestic and international artists in The future is in the making in the northern bastion. Students from the abbey sec- the columned hall and other areas of ondary school are presenting their own exhibition in a display area on the first the abbey, as well as the »Wachau- floor of the northern bastion. The »Wachaulabor« (Wachau Laboratory) is a critical labor« in the northern bastion, grap- appraisal of the past and addresses a possible future for the Wachau, as envisaged ple with very diverse topics from the by the students. fields of past and present, art and www.wachaulabor.stiftsgymnasium-melk.org 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 at- tracts audiences in autumn and in spring with a colourful cabaret and concert programme, or the autumnal culture programme »Wachau in Echtzeit« (Wa- chau 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 Intriguesand extravagances were the order basis of a broad reform movement, dangerous. This message is illustrated of the day – even in the Benedictine abbey and monks were instructed to im- by Umberto Eco's bestseller »The Name of Melk, which was drowning in debt. How- plement these in other monasteries of the Rose«. However, his novel is not ever, a strict reformation of monasteries as friars. In this way, the Melk Reform based on the library of Melk Abbey, but was decreed at the Council of Constance encompassed Austria and all of South- rather on the fictive manuscripts of the and Melk Abbey was the starting point ern Germany right through to the Black supposed chronicles of a 13th century (hence the name »Melk Reform«). Forest. monk – Adso of Melk. The truth is that discipline became slack in many 15th Under the aegis of Abbot Nikolaus Sey- century monasteries. ringer, the Melk Reform became the 36 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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

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 www.aggsbach-dorf.at garden. Following a visit to the cultural attractions, a cycle tour through the Wa- chau 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 op- STEINSTADEL MINERAL CENTRE erated here by three waterwheels. The hammer mill's stone outbuilding is today With more than 300 exhibits, the geological used as »Steinstadel Mineral Centre«. diversity of Lower Austria is impressively documented in this museum in a natural Opening times are available under: stone building. www.kartaeuserland.at www.kartause.net Wachau World Heritage Region | 37

AGGSTEIN CASTLE RUINS The former fortress of Aggstein perches like a falcon's nest over the Danube. INTERESTING FACTS 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 THE KUENRINGER was to protect the Danube trade route. Chains stretched over the Dan - ube and malicious ambushes – the You may indeed feel a shiver go down your spine at the legend of robber knight »Dogs of Kuenring« come off worse Scheck vom Wald, who placed his prisoners on a rocky precipice, the »little rose in legends than they do in history. garden«, giving them the choice: starve or jump. Today, torch-lit medieval banquets Descendants of Azzo von Gobats- are held here in authentic costumes. Weddings, too, take place either in the open burg, they were not robber knights air or in the knight's hall. Especially popular is the atmospheric Christmas market. but faithful ministers for the most

part, followers of the local sov- www.ruineaggstein.net ereigns. They came from Trier to Lower Austria in the 11th century with the then Margrave Leopold II. RIVERSIDE CHURCHES The Kuenrings settled in Aggstein Following the establishment of Aggsbach Charterhouse in the 14th century, Castle, in Dürnstein and in the Wald- residence was taken up by the silent monks, the Carthusians. Following the viertel district, among other places. Turkish wars and the Reformation, reconstruction, and finally dissolution by They helped to defend, keep the Kaiser Joseph II, a decorative monastery complex remains today. Worth seeing peace in and cultivate the region – is the church with its Gothic arches. The Carthusian Museum houses special and so laid the foundations for the exhibits from Carthusian orders. The torn down part of the complex – where flourishing of trade and agriculture. the cells of the monks once stood – quite literally blossoms in renewed splen- dour: 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.

PILGRIMAGES IN THE WACHAU A special pilgrimage destination in the Wachau is that of Schönbühel Monastery. Further information can be found on page 39: Interesting Facts.

OUR RECOMMENDATION: BEST OF WACHAU – BUSINESSES THE BEST ADDRESSES FOR DINING AND OVERNIGHT STAYS 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 was permitted, but all types of musical Carthusians. Exhibits include original ob- THE CARTHUSIANS instruments were forbidden. Austria’s jects from today’s Carthusians and furni- In the tradition of the great hermits, the Carthusian monasteries have since ture from a Carthusian cell at the Sélignac Order of the Carthusians was founded been abolished, but there are still over Charterhouse in France. The wonderful by Saint Bruno of Cologne in 1084 in the 20 monasteries of this strict order left in effect of the world-famous Chartreuse Chartreuse Mountains, near Grenoble. the world. ARGE Kartäuserland and, in liqueur, distilled from 130 herbs, can be particular, the Aggsbach Association of sampled on site. The monks’ liqueur is The monks were expected to live in si- Friends of the Carthusians are dedicated still made according to a recipe dating lence and solitude, with individual cells to documenting this silent order. In the from 1605. and small gardens separated from one Carthusian Museum, the Association has another and only connected by the clois- collected records of the life of the order’s www.kartaeuserland.at ter. Communal chanting in praise of God founder and of the life and work of the www.kartause.net 38 | Wachau World Heritage Region

BERGERN IM DUNKELSTEINERWALD

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 Dunkelstein- erwald 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 nu- merous archaeological findings from the Stone, Bronze and Iron Age. The stone circle precisely marks the beginning of winter, when the shadow of the south www.bergern-dunkelsteinerwald.at stone reaches the centre of the circle. From the stone circle it is just a few min- utes 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 Herit- age 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 pet- GEYERSBERG STONE CIRCLE als are processed into liqueur, syrup and desserts – the rosehips are transformed True-to-scale reproduction of a mega- into jams and liqueurs. lithic Celtic stone circle, representing a recap of the megalithic and Celtic cul- www.arge-dunkelsteinerwald.at tures. Wachau World Heritage Region | 39

INTERESTING FACTS of his sick child. Further miraculous heal- ings followed, with 381 miracles in 1783 – according to the parish chronicles. Maria SCHÖNBÜHEL MONASTERY Langegg, the Church of »Mary, Salvation AND MARIA LANGEGG CHURCH of the Sick« became a place of mercy and When Count Starhemberg had the for- miraculous healing, and a lively pilgrim- mer Schönbühel Monastery built, he did age route was soon established between everything in his power to make it a faith- the two churches. Thousands of pilgrims ful reproduction of the Church of the Na- came every year to the »Österreichischer tivity in Bethlehem. When the first monks Hilff- und Heylberg« (Austrian Mount of of the Order of the Servite were called Succour and Salvation) in the Dunkel- here in 1666, they soon had their hands steinerwald Forest. The pilgrimage trail full in caring for the worshippers of Saint forehand, Matthäus Häring from Salz- still exists today with its 15 Baroque ro- Rosalia, who flocked here after the plague burg had built a chapel in Maria Langegg, sary stations between »Little Bethle- at the end of the 17th century. Shortly be- fulfilling a vow he made upon the healing hem« in Schönbühel und Maria Langegg.

PILGRIMAGES IN THE WACHAU 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 forgive- ness 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 high- lights 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 in- sight into other pilgrimage destinations in the Wachau and surrounding area. Additional rooms can be viewed with a guide, including the library with its dec- orative frescoes and late Baroque decor, and the treasury with Votive offerings. Tel 02753/20741 www.maria-langegg.kirche.at 40 | Wachau World Heritage Region

ROSSATZ-ARNSDORF

Stretching out opposite Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen and Spitz is the market com- munity 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 ro- mantic 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.

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 www.rossatz-arnsdorf.at the artist group Gelatin, has nostrils that can be entered and is consciously de- signed 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 or- chards of Austria's largest apricot-grow- ing community. The western apricot mile RUPERTIWINZER DANUBE SALMON BREEDER runs from St. Johann via Oberarnsdorf, Hofarnsdorf and Mitterarnsdorf through Since 2003, the »Rupertiwinzer« have On account of his passion for breeding to Bacharnsdorf. The villages of Rührs- stood for first-class Wachau wines from Danube salmon (Huchen), Josef Fischer dorf, Rossatz und Rossatzbach make up the best vineyards on the southern bank of the Fischer wine estate is also known the eastern apricot mile. of the Danube, combined with the unique as »Huchenpepi«. Tip: Wine tastings and flair of the World Heritage Region. visits to the fish farm. Tel 02714/6217 | www.marillenmeile.at www.rupertiwinzer.at Tel 02714/6229 | www.huchenfischer.at Wachau World Heritage Region | 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 com - munity of Rossatz-Arnsdorf. It is also easy to navigate by bike. The tour be - gins 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«.

INTERESTING FACTS PILGRIMAGES IN THE WACHAU The last stop on the trail through the community of Rossatz is the branch SLOW LIGHT church of St. Johann in Mauerthale (the keys are available in the house oppo - With her project »Slow Light«, site). Vorarlberg artist Siegrun Applet has created art in the form of light. The Legend has it that, because of this pilgrimage destination, the Devil wanted churches in St. Johann, Hofarnsdorf to dam up the Danube in order to flood the church. Today, the Wachau railway and St. Lorenz have been illuminated runs through part of this »failed« damming attempt – the tunnel through the anew. so-called »Devil's Wall« is the shortest railway tunnel in Austria.

OUR RECOMMENDATION: BEST OF WACHAU – BUSINESSES THE BEST ADDRESSES FOR DINING AND OVERNIGHT STAYS 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 Vene- digerau and the Pritzenau wetlands, as well as the pools of Schopperstatt, Anzug and Sportplatz have been reconnected with the Danube and offer spawning sanctuary. Threatened species such as Rossatz. Walks through the wetlands grounds to countless fish species. Dan- kingfishers, beavers, dragonflies and reveal the great diversity of the flora and ube salmon, Danube roach, striped ruffe amphibians also benefit from the linking fauna. and nase have again found a habitat and of water bodies between Rührsdorf and www.life-wachau.at 42 | Wachau World Heritage Region

MAUTERN AN DER DONAU florianschulte.com

Mautern's roots stretch far back to Roman times, during which the village was once a Roman militar y 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 her- mitage »Ad Vineas« (To the Vineyards). Today, between Roman walls and vine- yards, 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 florianschulte.com an important trading route: As early as the 15th century, the locality was con- nected to Stein via a wooden bridge – the first Danube bridge in Lower Austria. www.mautern-donau.at 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 him- self 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 Lisl Wagner-Bacher's »Landhaus The Nikolaihof is one of the oldest wine Bacher« ranks among the world's best estates in Austria and one of the top cu- culinary addresses. Award-winning linary addresses in the Wachau. The mul- haute cuisine composed of select in- ti-award-winning wines are pressed in gredients, enhanced with regional and accordance with the bio-dynamic criteria Mediterranean accents, served in a com- of the Demeter Association and partially fortably elegant atmosphere and an idyl- processed by a historic wine press. The lic garden dining area. modern guest house is only a few steps away. Tel 02732/82 937 Tel 02732/82901 | www.nikolaihof.at www.landhaus-bacher.at Wachau World Heritage Region | 43

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 particu- lar, 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). www.mautern-donau.at 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 INTERESTING FACTS www.roemerhalle.at NATURE AND STONE SEVERIN OF NORICUM It is probable that he came from An interesting overview of the types of stone and diversity of flora and fauna to be Italy. He is also thought to have been found in Lower Austria can be gained while hiking along the »Nature and Stone« of noble descent, and yet Severin of themed trail. During a walk lasting from 2.5 to 3 hours, panels provide a great Noricum opted to live as a monk. The deal of information on shrubs and rock types, various bird and bat species and saint ultimately chose »Ad Vineas« the deadwood habitatz. as his place of retreat, a hamlet in www.mautern-donau.at the vineyards of Mautern, formerly known as Favianis. As Eugippius, RIVERSIDE CHURCHES his student, reported on the life of In addition to the parish church of Mautern, a visit to the medieval chapel of this cross-cultural man, it was here St. Margaret as well as the branch church in Hundsheim is worth your while. that he founded his monastery and, from his hermitage, arranged for the OUR RECOMMENDATION: distribution of food and clothing and brought about the release of many a BEST OF WACHAU – BUSINESSES prisoner of war. THE BEST ADDRESSES FOR DINING AND OVERNIGHT STAYS Landhaus Bacher **** The themed trail through Mautern Südtirolerplatz 2 | Tel 02732/82937 | www.landhaus-bacher.at begins at the Roman Hall. Nikolaihof Wachau & ad vineas Gästehaus Nikolaigasse 3 | Kainzstr. 14 | Tel 02732/82901 | 0676/4331828 www.nikolaihof.at | www.advineas.at

florianschulte.com 44 | Wachau World Heritage Region

GOLD BONNETS & KALMUCK JACKETS

The Wachau festival costume is one of the few Austrian traditional costumes to be worn by the population without inter- ruption 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 typi- cal 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 Wachau World Heritage Region | 45

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 ad- vised 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 46 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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 Bene- dictine Abbey beams out like an illuminated signpost. Most impressive in the Ba- roque 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.

The collection of prints and drawings comprises some 30,000 works by Euro- pean 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 INFO ABOUT Serving as a backdrop for atmospheric concerts and events are the abbey res - GÖTTWEIG ABBEY taurant, the church, the courtyard and the various rooms of the abbey. Highlights every summer are the open-air concert »Elina Garancaˇ & Friends: Music under 3511 Stift Göttweig the Stars« in the abbey courtyard or Advent Magic at Göttweig. Tel 02732/85581-0 Mail [email protected] www.stiftgoettweig.at Wachau World Heritage Region | 47

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 for- est. 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 or- chard 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 »Marillen- Erlebnisweg« (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 »Monas- tery 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 48 | Wachau World Heritage Region

WACHAU WORLD HERITAGE TRAIL

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 ex- ercise 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 exact route descriptions, all information and GPS tracks are available for The Wachau-Nibelungengau-Kremstal downloading under www.welterbesteig.at app is recommended for simple and con- venient planning of tours via Smartphone. Among the noteworthy attractions and rewarding stopping off points are the More extensive information, as well as Aggstein Castle ruins or the Benedictine abbeys of Göttweig and Melk. Inciden- detailed route descriptions and GPS tally, the Way of St. James runs between the two abbeys. tracks is available for downloading from www.welterbesteig.at 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. Wachau World Heritage Region | 49

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. NIBELUNGENGAU LEGENDARY NIBELUNGENGAU INFO-CENTRE YBBS

Lying upstream from the Wachau is the Nibelungengau region. Its name comes from the »Nibelungenlied« or Song of the Nibelungs, in which Rüdiger von Stauwerkstraße 86, 3370 Ybbs Bechelarn, and hence Pöchlarn, are made famous. Providing a reminder of Tel 07412/55233 this is the Nibelung Memorial (Nibelungendenkmal) at the Danube Pier. A fa- Mail [email protected] mous son of the town is the painter Oskar Kokoschka. Open: May – September

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. INTERESTING FACTS 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. TIP FOR ANDROID SMARTPHONE The Baroque castle and museum at Leiben are worth a visit too. AND IPHONE USERS

High above the Danube lies the scenic pilgrimage site of Maria Taferl, with its For easy and convenient route plan- miraculous image and pleasant guesthouses. Towering just a short walk from ning, we recommend the Wachau- Melk is the Renaissance Schallaburg Castle. The Dunkelsteinerwald Forest Nibelungengau-Kremstal app. idles in the back country of the southern bank of the Danube. Further information as well RIVERSIDE HIKES as detailed route descriptions with GPS tracks are available at Over a total length of 110 kilometres, the Nibelungengau long-distance trail www.nibelungengau.at. 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 MIDSUMMER FIRE steeped in history. The eight stages are between 20 and 22 kilometres in length – there is a route to suit every ability and taste. The Wachau and the Nibelungengau celebrate the summer solstice with On the northern bank, the trail starts in Sarmingstein. Over some 80 kilo- impressive fireworks, torches and metres, it travels through forests and a wildly romantic gorge, before arriving midsummer bonfires. An especially in Leiben. In adjoining Emmersdorf, the Nibelungengau long-distance trail ul- good vantage point for enjoying the timately converges with the Wachau World Heritage Trail. fiery spectacle is from a ship.

The southern route between Ybbs and Pöchlarn offers 30 kilometres of www.sonnenwende.at comfortable hiking trails, which largely run directly along the Danube tow- path. 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 50 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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 impres- sive 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 pro- vincial 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. Contem- porary 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.

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 THE »NIEDERÖSTERREICH-CARD« just bicycles. Discover Lower Austria's treasures with the NÖ CARD. Wachau Day Passes are available for purchase in the buses, on the ferries, as well as in Tel 01/535 05 05 the Wachau Info Centre in Melk, the information desks in Spitz and Emmersdorf, and at www.niederoesterreich-card.at Krems Tourismus. All timetables at www.vor.at Wachau World Heritage Region | 51

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 contempo- rary 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 sug- gestions.

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 gar- den 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, Seiten- stetten, 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 WALTER GROND (HG.): WANDERVERLAG ROTHER (HG.): »DRAUSSEN IN DER WACHAU« »WELTERBESTEIG WACHAU EDITION ARAMO (HG.): (»Outside in the Wachau«) UND JAUERLING-RUNDE« »WELTERBESTEIG WACHAU« The rather different travel guide (»Wachau World Heritage Trail (»Wachau World Heritage Trail«) and Jauerling Circuit«) This »rather different travel guide« with A literary hiking companion the title »Outside in the Wachau« takes Rother, the renowned German publisher 14 authors walked the 14 stages of the an unconventional, literary look at the specialising in hiking, published the new Wachau World Heritage Trail and captured places of longing, the clichés, places and hiking guide »Wachau World Heritage Route their impressions of it. Contributions from paths in the Wachau. Among other things, and Jauerling Circuit« the beginning of Octo- the following, among others: Clemens Peter Turrini tells about experiences with ber 2011. Clear tour information, informative Haipl, Lorenz Langenegger, Urs Mann- Billy Wilder during their shared journey route profiles, and full-colour hiking cards hart, Mieze Medusa, Angelika Reitzer, Ju- through the Wachau. showing the exact route and concise but lian Schutting, Christoph Simon, ... exact directions make all route suggestions www.aramo.at www.haymonverlag.at easily understandable. | www.amazon.at 52 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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 attrac- tions, 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

WACHAU WORLD HERITAGE TRAIL

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: | www.welterbesteig.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

|

www.kuenringer.at www.heurigenexpress.at

along the route. the along

In Dürnstein, the historic centre as well as the vineyards as far as Loiben are are Loiben as far as vineyards the as well as centre historic the Dürnstein, In

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With no hurry at all, but family friendly and with lots of information, the the information, of lots with and friendly family but all, at hurry no With

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it also offers nostalgic, theme or charter rides. charter or theme nostalgic, offers also it

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WACHAU RAILWAY WACHAU

|

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are also various combined offers with rail and ship. and rail with offers combined various also are

also in Aggsbach Dorf and at the new pier in the Emmersdorf town centre. There There centre. town Emmersdorf the in pier new the at and Dorf Aggsbach in also

and Melk there are stops in Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen, Spitz, and upon request request upon and Spitz, Weißenkirchen, Dürnstein, in stops are there Melk and

ships you have a stunning view of the world heritage landscape. Between Krems Krems Between landscape. heritage world the of view stunning a have you ships

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www.wachau.at

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www.vor.at

every weekend on demand (for as little as 1 passenger). 1 as little as (for demand on weekend every

and to the Jauerling Nature Park (bus WL7) or to Göttweig Abbey (bus WL4) WL4) (bus Abbey Göttweig to or WL7) (bus Park Nature Jauerling the to and

Mühldorf (bus WL5). From Easter to 26th October, buses run to Maria Laach Laach Maria to run buses October, 26th to Easter From WL5). (bus Mühldorf

the north bank hourly (bus WL1). The Spitzer Graben Valley is also linked with with linked also is Valley Graben Spitzer The WL1). (bus hourly bank north the

pletely accessible via two bus lines, the south bank every two hours (bus WL2), WL2), (bus hours two every bank south the lines, bus two via accessible pletely

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BUS CONNECTIONS BUS

| Region Heritage World Wachau

53 54 | Wachau World Heritage Region

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 start- ing 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 Wachau World Heritage Region | 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 MARATHON This high-class running festival is very WACHAU GOURMETFESTIVAL MIDSUMMER FIRE popular. Each year in September, about The best restaurants in the Wachau The summer solstice is celebrated in a 10,000 runners explore the Wachau. serve up exclusive menus in April. In ad- big and »fiery« way in the Wachau and www.wachaumarathon.at dition: Cooking shows, table talks und the Nibelungengau. An especially good exceptional wine tastings. vantage point for enjoying the numerous ATELIER ON THE DANUBE www.wachau-gourmet-festival.at fires is from a ship. Starting in 2006, Pöchlarn has been www.sonnenwende.at hosting an annual 11-day symposium for IMAGO DEI EASTER FESTIVAL artists from around the world. Within this This festival in Krems is dedicated to a va- MELK SUMMER FESTIVAL framework, an international jury awards riety of themes connected with the Easter Lower Austria's oldest summer theatre the Pöchlarn Art Award. ritual, with timeless music from different unites a sensory experience of classical www.atelieranderdonau.at ethnicities, epochs and religions. theatre with music and the unique am- www.klangraum.at bience between the Danube, the alluvial GLATT & VERKEHRT HERBSTZEITLOS forests and Melk Abbey. (»right and wrong sides autumn«) YBBSIADE www.sommerspielemelk.at A musical epilogue to the World Music The »Ybbs jester« is awarded annually Festival Glatt&Verkehrt, in and near at the largest cabaret festival in the Ger- GLATT & VERKEHRT the Klangraum Krems Minorite Church. man-speaking world. Well-known cab- (»right and wrong sides«) www.glattundverkehrt.at aret artists perform each year for two Austria's most important world music weeks in April. festival offers traditional and contempo- WINTER www.ybbsiade.at rary folk music each July at various event venues. ADVENT IN THE WACHAU LITERATURE AND WINE www.glattundverkehrt.at Enchanting Advent markets in the Wa- Göttweig Abbey and the Lower Austrian chau-Nibelungengau-Kremstal Valley Independent Literature House (ULNÖ) in RIESLING FESTIVAL region get you in the mood for the love- Stein are the venues for the 2-day series The Riesling Festival in Weißenkirchen liest family celebration of the year. of events. | www.ulnoe.at takes place in the most beautiful arcade www.wachau.at courtyard in the Wachau, at Teisenhofer- DANUBE FESTIVAL hof. | www.weissenkirchen-wachau.at WACHAU IN ECHTZEIT On two weekends in the spring, Krems The Wachau presents itself from its most becomes an international platform for WACHAU FESTIVAL festive side with Advent markets and a new performing arts and experimental Comedies are on the programme for this whole series of events at monasteries, music. summer theatre, which takes place at churches, castles and wine estates, cu- www.donaufestival.at Teisenhoferhof in Weißenkirchen in July rated by Ursula Strauss. and August. www.wachauinechtzeit.at WEINSTEINBIKEWACHAU www.wachaufestspiele.com (»Bike the Wachau between wine DÜRNSTEIN SYMPOSIUM and stone«) WACHAU CYCLING DAYS Politics | Philosophy Religion The mountain bike tour runs »between In mid-July, hundreds of cyclists come to Starting on Ash Wednesday, thinkers wine and stone«. Two races take place the starting line for the Wachau Cycling from around the world spend 5 days the middle of May between the high-up Days. There is a choice of two routes with discussing values and concepts that are wine slopes of the rear Spitzer Graben a length of either 177 km or 97 km. used in political discourse. Valley. | www.weinsteinbike.at www.wachauer-radtage.at www.symposionduernstein.at

INT. BAROQUE DAYS AT MELK ABBEY AUTUMN Each year at Whitsun the Benedictine Monastery at Melk is filled with the sound EUROPEAN LITERATURE DAYS IN SPITZ You can find all events of Baroque music under the leadership of This authors' convention with an interna- here, or under chamber singer Michael Schade. tional line-up takes place annually in Spitz in www.donau.com/ www.barocktagemelk.at October. | www.literaturhauseuropa.eu 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

Kamptal-Wagram- Tullner Donauraum Römerland We will be glad to advise you Carnuntum – at the info points in Ybbs, Melk, Wachau-Nibelungengau- Marchfeld Emmersdorf, Spitz, Weißenkirchen, Kremstal Dürnstein and Krems as well. Donau Bratislava St. Pölten Wien

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IMPRINT: Editor and publisher: Donau Niederösterreich Tourismus GmbH, A-3620 Spitz/Donau. Photos: Donau Niederösterreich Tourismus GmbH, An - dreas Hofer, Steve Haider/www.steve.haider.com, Klaus Engelmayer, Popp und Hackner, Gregor Semrad, Lachlan Blair, Wulz, Gerald Lechner, Nieder- österreich 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 © Natur- parke 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.