Winter hiking on the Nibelungengau long-distance trail 3: Marbach-Maria Taferl

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 9,04 km
Duration: 2:50 h
Ascent: 470 m elevation gain
Descent: 240 m elevation gain

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.

Starting point of the tour: Marbach, ship landing stage
Tour destination: Maria Taferl, town entrance

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 9,04 km
Duration: 2:50 h
Ascent: 470 m elevation gain
Descent: 240 m elevation gain

Fitness level required:
4/6
Overall experience:
3/6
Scenery:
4/6

Lowest point216 m
Highest point550 m

Nice views
With refreshment stops

Downloads

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(GPX)

Description

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 uphill through small villages and forests to Maria Taferl.

safety instructions Please observe the following tips and instructions:Stay on the marked paths Wear mountain/hiking boots Use hiking poles Rainwear is always advisableBring the hiking map with youPlease do not leave your trash on the trailRespect the sensitive habitats of plant and animal life.We would like to point out that mountain biking and horse riding on the Nibelungengau long-distance trail are generally prohibited in the forest and on private forest roads. Use of the suggested routes is at your own risk and responsibility.
Route description The stage starts at the panoramic board at the ship landing stage in Marbach. The path leads past the Winkler mill, up through the untouched nature of the Steinbach Gorge. Enjoy the relaxing peace and use the time to unwind. After the gorge, there is an opportunity for a short rest in nature or a little further at the Gressl inn in Hilmanger. Then the route descends again with a magnificent view of the Danube Valley. You pass through small villages and forest before the last section with a steep climb uphill to Maria Taferl. The path leads past the impressive basilica before the stage ends at the panoramic board at the town 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 Parking is possible at the ship landing stage in Marbach or in the town of Maria Taferl (including near the basilica).
Getting there Marbach is accessible via the A1 West Motorway, Pöchlarn exit. Take the first exit in the roundabout at the exit, 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.
Public transport We recommend traveling by car, as public transportation does not provide a seamless connection.
Editor’s tip Enjoy the wonderful peace and untouched nature in the Steinbach Gorge. In Maria Taferl, beautiful views of the Danube region and the Nibelungengau await you.The Nibelungengau long-distance hiking trail is signposted and walkable in both directions.

Recommended period

For easy and convenient route planning, the Wachau-Nibelungengau-Kremstal app is recommended. Simply download it for Android or iPhone.

Letzte Änderung: 25 Feb 2026