Hiking tour Starting from Marbach, ship dock
Maria Taferl is the most important place of pilgrimage in Lower Austria and the second largest in Austria. Unique views of the Danube valley and the Nibelungengau.
Maria Taferl is the most important place of pilgrimage in Lower Austria and the second largest in Austria. Unique views of the Danube valley and the Nibelungengau.
The stage starts at the panorama board at the boat landing stage in Marbach. The trail leads past the Winklermühle mill, up through the untouched nature of the Steinbachklamm gorge. From Hilmanger, the route descends again with wonderful views of the Danube valley. The last section leads steeply uphill through small villages and forest to Maria Taferl.
Please note the following tips and information to make your hiking holiday a pleasant experience:
· Stay on marked paths.
· Wear mountain/hiking boots.
· Use hiking poles.
· Rainwear is always advisable.
· Take the hiking map with you.
· Carry enough drinking water.
· Please do not leave your rubbish on the trail.
· Respect the sensitive habitats of plants and animals.
Please note that mountain biking and horse riding on the Nibelungengau long-distance path are generally prohibited in the forest and on private forest roads. Using the suggested routes is at your own risk and responsibility.
Hiking boots, backpack, hiking map and/or mobile tour planner, weatherproof clothing (e.g. rain protection), headwear, sun protection, first aid kit, possibly flashlight, sufficient provisions (water, snacks)
An extensive equipment list can be found here.
The stage starts at the panoramic board at the ship dock in Marbach. The path leads past the Winklermühle, up through the untouched nature of the Steinbachklamm. Enjoy the relaxing peace and take the time to unwind. After the gorge, there is an opportunity for a short break in nature or a little further at the Gressl inn in Hilmanger. Then the route leads downhill again with a wonderful view of the Danube Valley. You pass through small villages and forest before the last section goes steeply uphill to Maria Taferl. The path passes the impressive basilica before the stage ends at the panoramic board at the village entrance. Situated high above the Danube Valley, Maria Taferl offers a unique panoramic view over the entire Alpine range from Schneeberg to Traunstein and is the most important pilgrimage site in Lower Austria.
Parking is available at the ship dock in Marbach or in the village of Maria Taferl (including at the basilica).
Marbach is accessible via the A1 West Autobahn, exit Pöchlarn. Take the first exit at the roundabout, after about 1 km turn left towards the Danube bridge. Cross the bridge, then keep left on Wachauerstraße (B3) to Marbach.
From Krems or Grein, follow Wachauerstraße (B3) to Marbach.
Travel with ÖBB to the Pöchlarn train station - timetable inquiry. From the station, you can take the post bus to Marbach - timetable information.
We recommend traveling by car, as public transport does not cover a seamless connection.
Enjoy the wonderful peace and the untouched nature in the Steinbachklamm. In Maria Taferl, beautiful views of the Danube area and the Nibelungengau await you.
The Nibelungengau long-distance hiking path is signposted and passable in both directions.
Event highlight in the Nibelungengau:
Combine your hiking holiday with the solstice celebration "Fire Magic in the Nibelungengau" in June. Celebrate on the banks of the Danube in one of the Nibelungengau communities or on board a ship.
For easy and convenient route planning, the Wachau-Nibelungengau-Kremstal app is recommended. Simply download for Android or iPhone.
Excursion tips along the route:
Steinbachklamm (between Marbach and Maria Taferl), Basilica Maria Taferl
Dining options along the route:
Marbach, Hilmanger and Maria Taferl
Other attractions in the Nibelungengau:
Visitor power plant Ybbs-Persenbeug, Peace Museum Erlauf, Oskar Kokoschka Center Pöchlarn, Europa Castle Leiben, Artstetten Castle
Events in the Nibelungengau region and surrounding area can be found here.
All available promotional materialsfor the Nibelungengau can be found here or browse online through the Nibelungengau travel guide.
Letzte Änderung: 15 Apr 2026