Wachau World Heritage Trail in Winter 01: Dürnstein - Krems

Description

Welterbesteig Wachau - Wachau World Heritage Trail in winter: From Dürnstein to Krems

This winter stage begins at the Kremser Tor gate in the medieval town of Dürnstein, which is particularly peaceful and atmospheric in the cold season. A gentle climb leads up to the panoramic Kuhberg, from where, on a clear winter's day, you can enjoy sweeping views over the Danube and the terraced vineyards.

Below the striking Dürnstein castle ruins, the landscape is characterized by rugged rock formations and tranquil oak and pine forests. The trail continues through the Kellerberg nature reserve and across the Höhereck vineyard into the open wine landscape around the Loibenberg, whose stone terraces are also particularly attractive in winter.

Via the Pfaffenberg, the route changes from the Wachau wine-growing region to the Krems Valley ("Kremstal" in German). Old vineyard lanes and quiet hollow paths lead to the historic old town of Stein with its medieval alleyways and baroque facades. Through the historic quarters of Krems, past Gothic churches, Renaissance buildings and the Gozzo Castle, the winter hike ends at the Hoher Markt - an atmospheric end to an impressive stage on the Welterbesteig Wachau World Heritage Trail.

Hiking along the Welterbesteig Wachau - Wachau World Heritage Trail reveals step by step why the Wachau has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage region. Along finely curated World Heritage spots, the defining World Heritage highlights become visible - the interplay of historic cultural landscape, traditional viticulture, extraordinary natural spaces and the Danube as a shaping element.

Thanks to good rail connections, a relaxed and sustainable journey to the Wachau is easy. A dense network of public transport in the region ensures that all stages can be easily reached by bus, train, ferry and boat. This also makes it very easy to combine different stages.

The Welterbesteig Wachau - Wachau World Heritage Trail has also been awarded the Austrian Hiking Seal of Quality. This certification stands for high quality standards in terms of route guidance, signposting, safety and infrastructure and confirms the World Heritage Trail as a reliable and high-quality hiking offer in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.