Melk, 8°
The Wachau is a World Heritage Site in the narrow Danube valley between the towns of Melk and Krems. On 1,344 hectares, partly on steep terraces, are mainly Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. The best sites yield some of the world's greatest white wines with decades of development potential.
The Wachau is one of Austria's most beautiful and famous regions. The distinctive landscape along the stream between Melk and Krems is artfully lined with vineyards, these are built with stone walls typical of the region, which made viticulture on the steep slopes possible in the first place. The construction of dry stone walls has an ancient tradition in the Wachau and contributes greatly to the charming appearance of the settlement area, where the Waldviertel in the north and the Dunkelsteinerwald in the south were separated by the Danube.
Finds from the Roman period or the probably most famous statuette "Venus of Willendorf" testify to the fact that early cultures settled here. It was discovered during construction work on the Danube embankment railroad and is around 29,000 years old.
The riverside promenades of the individual Wachau communities are places of relaxation and enjoyment. The cycle paths along the Danube attract sports enthusiasts from near and far. There is also much to discover on foot. North and south of the Danube is the World Heritage Trail. Castles, fortresses and ruins can be explored on 180 km of signposted hiking routes. River and forest alternate. They connect the 13 municipalities of the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau.
The Wachau is not only a wine-growing region, but also home to the Wachau apricot. It stands as a landmark of the region, as well as ruins of the Middle Ages. It gives us a very special natural spectacle at the beginning of April. At this time, the Wachau is in its full flowering splendor. Because then the apricot trees blossom. Visit us and immerse yourself in the white-soaked nature and let yourself be enchanted by the scent of the blossoms.
The Heurige is one of the most typical inns of the region. With cozy guest gardens and top culinary delights, gourmets can enjoy world-famous wines and the Wachau apricot on the palate. With the well-developed public transport network of train, bus and boat as well as bike paths, vacationers can relax and enjoy the region.