Nibelungengau long-distance hiking trail 6: Leiben - Pöchlarn

Please observe the following tips and notes to make your hiking holiday a wonderful 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 trash on the path.
·         Respect the sensitive habitats of plants and wildlife.

We would like to point out that mountain biking and horseback riding are generally prohibited on the Nibelungengau long-distance hiking trail 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 route planner, weatherproof clothing (e.g. rain protection), headgear, sun protection, first aid kit, possibly flashlight, sufficient provisions (water, snack)

An extensive equipment list can be found here.

The stage starts at the panorama board near Europaschloss Leiben. The roughly 800-year-old castle sits atop a mighty, steep rock and impressively marks the transition from the south of the rugged Waldviertel region to the picturesque Danube valley. The path gently ascends through Weinzierl, then descends over the Kaumberg and through the village of Ebersdorf. Here you can enjoy a very beautiful view of Melk Abbey and - depending on the weather conditions - a view of the Ötscher. Along the forest edge with rare plant species, the path leads the last section downhill on asphalt to Klein-Pöchlarn. Located directly on the Danube shore in Klein-Pöchlarn and on the Danube cycling path is Austria's first bee park. It is dedicated extensively to knowledge and awareness of the bee topic. From there, the stage initially follows the Danube downstream. Then it crosses the Danube bridge and follows the Danube upstream again to the panorama board in Pöchlarn near the Nibelung monument. One of the best-known Austrian artists of the 20th century is the painter, poet, and graphic artist Oskar Kokoschka (1886 – 1980), born in Pöchlarn, Lower Austria. The Kokoschka Documentation Center in his birthplace shows around 100 works of the great expressionist.

Parking is possible at Europaschloss Leiben or the Nibelung monument in Pöchlarn or in the town.

Leiben is accessible via the A1 Westautobahn, exit Pöchlarn. At the exit take the 1st roundabout exit, after about 1 km turn left towards the Danube bridge. Cross the bridge, then keep right on Wachauerstraße (B3) to Ebersdorf. In the village turn left to Leiben.

Coming from Krems or Grein via Wachauerstraße (B3) to Ebersdorf and turn in the village to Leiben.

Travel to the Melk train station with ÖBB - timetable query. From the station, you can take the Postbus to Leiben - timetable information.

We recommend traveling by car, as public transport does not cover a continuous connection.

Enjoy the magnificent views of the Danube valley and Melk Abbey near Leiben and Klein-Pöchlarn. Between Klein-Pöchlarn and Pöchlarn, you cross the Danube bridge and experience the Danube at your feet.

The Nibelungengau long-distance hiking trail is signposted and walkable in both directions.

Event highlight in the Nibelungengau:
Combine your hiking holiday with the Midsummer 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.