Die Kuenringerfeste und heutige Ruine Aggstein, das prächtige barocke Wallfahrtskloster Maria Langegg, der winterliche Dunkelsteinerwald mit dem Buchental, traumhafte Rundblicke vom Hohen Stein und dem Glauberkreuz in den Arnsdorfer Rieden erwarten uns auf der Etappe von Aggsbach Dorf nach Hofarnsdorf.
Wachau World Heritage Trail: From Aggsbach Dorf to Hofarnsdorf
The stage from Aggsbach Dorf to Hofarnsdorf follows varied forest and farm tracks up to the impressive Aggstein Castle Ruin and continues into the tranquil winter landscapes of the Dunkelsteinerwald. Passing the Baroque pilgrimage monastery of Maria Langegg, the route leads through the quiet Buchental valley. A short, secured section provides access to the Hoher Stein, one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Wachau, offering wide views over the Danube valley.
The path then descends steadily through the Buchental, accompanied by mighty beech forests, to the Glauberkreuz rest area amid the Arnsdorf vineyard sites and on to the Arnsdorf–Spitz roll ferry station. From here, the stage destination, Hofarnsdorf Castle, is quickly reached, marking the end of this particularly diverse stage in terms of landscape and cultural heritage.
Walking the Welterbesteig Wachau 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, centuries-old viticulture, exceptional natural habitats and the Danube as a shaping force.
Thanks to excellent rail connections, a relaxed and sustainable journey to the Wachau is easy. Within the region, a dense public transport network ensures that all stages can be conveniently reached by bus, train, ferry and boat, making it simple to combine different stages.
The Welterbesteig Wachau is also awarded the Austrian Hiking Quality Seal. This certification represents high standards in route layout, waymarking, safety and infrastructure, confirming the trail as a reliable and high-quality walking experience at the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Hiking Routes
· Donau-Niederösterreich
