Nibelungengau long-distance hiking trail 7: Pöchlarn - Krummnussbaum

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 18,29 km
Duration: 4:40 h
Ascent: 207 m elevation gain
Descent: 206 m elevation gain

The southern section of the Danube is a leisurely hike along the Erlauf to the peaceful community of Erlauf and on to the eponymous "crooked walnut trees" in Krummnussbaum.

Starting point of the tour: Pöchlarn, Nibelungen Memorial
Tour destination: Krummnussbaum, fire brigade

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 18,29 km
Duration: 4:40 h
Ascent: 207 m elevation gain
Descent: 206 m elevation gain

Fitness level required:
2/6
Overall experience:
3/6
Scenery:
3/6

Lowest point213 m
Highest point348 m

Stage tour
Nice views
With refreshment stops
Accessibility by train and bus
Suitable for families and children

Downloads

Description

The stage starts at the Nibelungen monument in Pöchlarn and leads briefly upstream along the Danube to the mouth of the Erlauf, along the banks of the Erlauf along the cycle path, through a beautiful alluvial forest and a peaceful river landscape with Natura 2000 status. Leaving the town of Erlauf behind you, the route continues on the other side of the river to Golling and over an idyllic hilly landscape with beautiful views down to Krummnussbaum.

Equipment Hiking boots, backpack, hiking map and/or mobile tour planner, weatherproof clothing (e.g. rain protection), headwear, sun protection, first aid kit, possibly flashlight, sufficient supplies (water, snack) An extensive equipment list can be found here.
Route description The stage starts at the Nibelungen Memorial in Pöchlarn and leads briefly upstream along the Danube to the mouth of the Erlauf. The path then runs along the bank of the Erlauf on the bike path, through a beautiful floodplain forest and a peaceful river landscape with Natura 2000 status. After the forest section, it continues on asphalt through the residential area to the center of Erlauf.If you still have strength and energy, we recommend the "extension stage" over the Eichberg, where you will be rewarded with a wonderful view over the Danube valley and the Erlauf valley all the way to the Ötscher. Follow the signposting to Erlauf's local mountain - the "Eichberg". At the top, you will find a cozy rest area with the described view, next to a small chapel. Via the "Hochgreding", the ridge above Erlauf, you can hike back to Erlauf through a quiet forest area with a permanent beautiful panoramic view and small picturesque farming villages (about 5 km – duration about 1 hour).From the town center, the route continues along the foot and bike path to the bridge over the Erlauf and on the other side of the river further to Golling. Over a hilly landscape with lovely views, the path leads down to Krummnussbaum.
Parking Parking is available at the Nibelungen Memorial in Pöchlarn or in the town, as well as in the village of Krummnussbaum.
Getting there Pöchlarn is easily accessible via the A1 West Autobahn Salzburg - Vienna, exit Pöchlarn. Take the 2nd exit at the roundabout and after about 2 km you will arrive in the town center.Coming from Krems or Grein via Wachau Road (B3), cross the Danube bridge at Klein Pöchlarn. At the roundabout after the bridge, take the first exit towards Pöchlarn.
Public transport You can travel with ÖBB to the Pöchlarn train station - timetable query. The route from the station to the town can be covered on foot.We recommend traveling by car, as public transport does not cover a seamless connection.
Editor’s tip Did you know that the combat actions of World War II officially ended in the center of Erlauf when the generals of the American and Russian armies secretly met there on the night of May 8-9, 1945? You can learn all about this and much more at the Museum ERLAUF ERINNERT. Enjoy the wonderful views of the hilly and forested north bank of the Danube and also take in the view into the Erlauf valley and the majestic Ötscher. The basilica in Maria Taferl and Artstetten Castle tower majestically and remain visible from all stages.The Nibelungengau long-distance hiking trail is signposted and walkable in both directions.Event highlight in Nibelungengau:Combine your hiking holiday with the Summer Solstice Celebration "Fire Magic in Nibelungengau" in June. Celebrate on the banks of the Danube in one of the Nibelungengau communities or aboard a ship.

Recommended period

Current weather in Pöchlarn

3° to 12°

Today, 04.03.2026

Fog

Wind speed1,0 km/h

2° to 13°

Tomorrow, 05.03.2026

Fog

Wind speed2,1 km/h

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

Excursion tips along the route:
Oskar Kokoschka Center Pöchlarn, Nibelungen Memorial Pöchlarn, City Museum Arelape-Bechelaren-Pöchlarn, Peace Museum Erlauf, crooked nut trees in Krummnussbaum, Danube port near Krummnussbaum

Dining options along the route:
Pöchlarn, Erlauf, Golling and Krummnussbaum

Other attractions in Nibelungengau:
Visitor power plant Ybbs-Persenbeug, European castle Leiben, Artstetten Castle, Maria Taferl Basilica

Event tips:
Every first Saturday in October, the Nut Festival takes place in Krummnussbaum. The town transforms into a colorful festival site with many delicious and fun offerings all around the nut. All events and festivities in the Nibelungengau region and surroundings can be viewed here.

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

Letzte Änderung: 25 Feb 2026