Steep are the hills rising from the Danube in the Wachau valley. In order to grow wine here, terraces had to be created from the ground many centuries ago; similar to other fields of cultivation, like rice terraces in Asia. For almost 1000 years now, stone walls have supported the terraces in order to keep the slope from eroding. In addition, they are an excellent heat reservoir. When the first stone walls where created, mortar to link the stones had not yet been invented. This tradition of stacking up single stones is continued today, providing the special ambiance of this cultural landscape.
Cool waters, gently flowing down the stream. Look up on internationally renowned cultural treasures. Romantic hide-aways - including sandy beaches - can be found many times. Near Emmersdorf, Melk, Rossatz, Aggsbach and Weissenkirchen.
A popular sight is the blue tower of the collegiate church in Dürnstein, surrounded by the picturesque frame of the historical city ensemble. Connected to the church is a beautiful cloister dating from the Baroque Age.
Embedded in the landscape to the north of the Danube river, around the famous pilgrimage site Maria Taferl and only 10 km away from the Abbey of Melk, the new golf club Maria Taferl lies. The 9-hole golf course, framed by the basilica of Maria Taferl, is a challenge for each handicap class.
Since 1660, the two-storey Baroque basilica of Maria Taferl counts among the most important pilgrimage sites in Austria. Up to 300.000 pilgrims are welcomed here each year. From high up the basilica, the view is especially nice.
Coloured stages, wide open views, and a refreshing feeling of being alive. One meets in the Danube area around Tulln. Over cycling, taking a bath in historic sites, or one of the bayou waters of the Danube river. And while enjoying one of the many summer events.
Just as varied as the mosaic of landscapes is the cultural offer. The range goes from the vanguard Danube Festival to the theatre performances of the Stockerauer Festivals and the versatile Danube Stage Tulln. Korneuburg invites you to the city's summer of music, Klosterneuburg to open air operas. "Schubertiaden" take place at Schloss Atzenbrugg.
Shady lanes run through the characteristic loess terraces along the vineyards of Wagram. In the heat of the summer, they provide a cool refuge in order to enjoy a good glass of wine or grape juice. The typical "cellar lane parties" take place each weekend in a different spot. The Wagram region is well-known for its Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Chardonnay and Weissburgunder varieties, including the Frühroter Veltliner as a speciality. Typical Austrian red wine varieties, such as Zweigelt and Blauburger, are also increasingly cultivated here.
Stroll along the traces of the emperial family, through lavish palaces and historical parks. Dive into the sumptuous atmosphere of the Baroque Age. Hof Palace and Niederweiden Palace have just recently been renovated carefully to welcome you in all their splendour. Furthermore, the palaces of Eckartsau and Rohrau are truly worth seeing, hosting one of the most significant private collections of paintings in Europe.
Trace the remains of Roman history. Made alive in an exciting and entertaining way. At the Archaeological Park Carnuntum. Staging wild Roman parties, fights between gladiators and impressive markets.
Close to you: The aspiring wine growing area Carnuntum, featuring romantic cellar lanes and many traditional Heurigen wine taverns, well known for its salubrious red wines.
Mysterious wilderness, rare plants and animals, quiet ponds and paradisiac peace. The national park Danube Floodplains stands for unparalleled natural encounters in one of the last primeval forests of Europe. All throughout the year, interesting guided tours through the forests and the waters are offered for kids and adults.
Gently rolling hills, blossoming orchards.. The Mostviertel is home to thousands of pear trees, whose fruit are used to produce delicious must juice varieties.
