Nibelungengau long-distance hiking trail 6: Leiben - Pöchlarn

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 11,94 km
Duration: 3:05 h
Ascent: 176 m elevation gain
Descent: 229 m elevation gain

At the Melk Danube power station, the Nibelungengau long-distance hiking trail connects to the Wachau World Heritage Trail. A charming as well as ambitious challenge for passionate hikers.

Starting point of the tour: Leiben, Europaschloss
Tour destination: Pöchlarn, Nibelung monument

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 11,94 km
Duration: 3:05 h
Ascent: 176 m elevation gain
Descent: 229 m elevation gain

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

Lowest point213 m
Highest point330 m

Stage tour
Nice views
With refreshment stops

Downloads

Description

The stage starts at Europaschloss Leiben and gently ascends through Weinzierl, then descends over the Kaumberg and through the village of Ebersdorf. Along the forest edge, the last part leads downhill on asphalt to Klein-Pöchlarn. From there, the path initially follows the Danube downstream, then crosses the Danube bridge and then upstream to the Nibelung monument in Pöchlarn.

Equipment 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.
Route description 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 Parking is possible at Europaschloss Leiben or the Nibelung monument in Pöchlarn or in the town.
Getting there 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.
Public transport 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.
Editor’s tip 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.

Recommended period

Current weather in Leiben

6° to 7°

Today, 11.02.2026

Light rain shower

Wind speed2,5 km/h

4° to 9°

Tomorrow, 12.02.2026

Light rain shower

Wind speed2,0 km/h

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

Excursion tips along the route:
Europaschloss Leiben, Bee park Klein-Pöchlarn, mirror sculpture Klein-Pöchlarn, floating platform in the Danube in Klein-Pöchlarn, Oskar Kokoschka Center Pöchlarn, Nibelung monument Pöchlarn, City Museum Arelape-Bechelaren-Pöchlarn

Dining options along the route:
Leiben, Klein-Pöchlarn and Pöchlarn

Further sights in the Nibelungengau:
Visitors' power plant Ybbs-Persenbeug, Peace Museum Erlauf, Artstetten Castle, Basilica Maria Taferl

Event tips:
Numerous sporting activities take place in and around Leiben, such as the Dirtrun woidwetza. All events and happenings in the Nibelungengau region and surroundings can be viewed here.

All available promotional materialsfor the Nibelungengau can be found here or browse through the Nibelungengau travel guide online.