The Wachau region in beautiful Lower Austria is a travel destination that attracts a huge number of visitors every year. The region is located in the so-called Nibelungengau, which begins near Ybbs and stretches all the way to Melk. About 40 kilometers downstream from Melk Abbey lies Krems, marking the southernmost point of the Wachau. The region is characterized by its unique landscape, enchanting vineyard-covered hills, and a rich historical past steeped in legend. As early as several hundred years ago, artists discovered the Wachau as a source of inspiration for their paintings and photographs. But actors and film producers also helped revitalize the region in the latter half of the last century. Hits like the “Mariandl Song” have their origins in the Wachau.
Wine Taverns, Award-Winning Cuisine, and Traditional Dishes
One of the main reasons the Wachau is such a great travel destination is the culinary skills of the locals. Numerous cozy restaurants, exquisite award-winning eateries, and traditional wine taverns await guests. From gourmet restaurants to rustic taverns, there’s something for everyone. The great thing about Wachau specialties is that virtually everything comes from the region itself. For example, the chefs conjure up delicacies using “Wachauer Marillen” (Wachau apricots), whose designation of origin is protected by the EU. Fresh fish straight from the local river is another specialty. Of course, these exquisite dishes must be paired with a delicious glass of wine, which naturally comes from the surrounding vineyards.
“ad vineas”: retreating to the vineyards
It was the Romans who laid the foundation for sophisticated viticulture. In general, viticulture in the Wachau region has a long history that is interwoven with many legends. One of the reasons the Wachau is a popular travel destination is its rolling landscape, which, however, first had to be prepared for winegrowing. Following the example of rice cultivation in Asia, terraces were built and secured with stone walls to prevent them from sliding down the slopes. Since they were constructed long ago through painstaking manual labor, they still consist today of the layered stones from that era. They are part of the region’s historic atmosphere. The Wachau is a great travel destination, especially for wine connoisseurs; those interested can hike along the wine routes, learn more about the region, and enjoy the wonderful views. The Tausendeimerberg near Spitz, the Singerriedl, the Rieden Klaus, and Achleiten in Weissenkirchen are just a few of the places where the grapes thrive. The Wachau’s finest wines include Riesling, Chardonnay, Neuburger, Grüner Veltliner, and Gelber Muskateller.
If you're active, you need good accommodations
In the Wachau region, you can relax and simply enjoy the scenery, yet exciting excursions and a bit of activity are part of a successful vacation. So what would a travel tip be without a recommendation for the perfect place to stay? To help you make your stay absolutely perfect, we’ve found the Hotel Donauhof in Weissenkirchen for you. This four-star hotel is centrally located and stands out above all for its family-friendly atmosphere. A friendly staff is happy to take care of all your needs, and the gourmet kitchen ensures your culinary well-being. The Hotel Donauhof also serves as a starting point for interesting excursions and hiking trails. Many golf courses are located nearby. This example shows that the Wachau is truly a top travel destination and has a lot to offer its visitors. Have we convinced you?
