Description
The varied route via the Vogelbergsteig to the historic ruin of Dürnstein Castle is counted among the most beautiful hiking routes in the Wachau.
During the ascent, hikers enjoy an impressive panoramic view of Dürnstein and the surrounding landscape. Notable viewpoints are the projecting rocky ledge of the Vogelberg (546 m) and the Starhemberg watchtower (564 m) at the summit of Schlossberg. The key to the watchtower is available at the Fesslhütte.
The ascent on the Vogelbergsteig is interesting due to the many different path sections but challenging because of the relatively steep incline. The last third leads through rocks and over a granite slab with scree and is well secured with wire ropes and chains. In case of snow and ice conditions, the Vogelbergsteig is not accessible for safety reasons.
Starting point of the tour
In the valley, Dürnstein
Destination point of the tour
In the valley, Dürnstein
Route description Vogelbergsteig Dürnstein
The varied route via the Vogelbergsteig to the historic ruin of Dürnstein Castle is counted among the most beautiful hiking routes in the Wachau.
During the ascent, hikers enjoy an impressive panoramic view of Dürnstein and the surrounding landscape. Notable viewpoints are the projecting rocky ledge of the Vogelberg (546 m) and the Starhemberg watchtower (564 m) at the summit of Schlossberg. The key to the watchtower is available at the Fesslhütte.
The ascent on the Vogelbergsteig is interesting due to the many different path sections but challenging because of the relatively steep incline. The last third leads through rocks and over a granite slab with scree and is well secured with wire ropes and chains. In case of snow and ice conditions, the Vogelbergsteig is not accessible for safety reasons.
Directions
A1 to Melk and via B3 to Dürnstein or via S5 or S33 to Krems and then via B3 to Dürnstein.
Parking
Dürnstein has a total of 8 visitor parking spaces, more information at www.duernstein.at.
With the Wachau railway, operating daily between May 30 and November 1, Dürnstein is accessible from Emmersdorf or Krems: www.wachaubahn.at. Dürnstein (bus stop "Parking lot P2") can be reached every hour by bus line 715 from the Melk and Krems train stations, timetables: www.vor.at. Nextbike rental stations (€1.-/30min) are located in Dürnstein. More information at 02742/22-9901 and on www.nextbike.at.
Author's tip
The historic ruin of Dürnstein Castle, which served as a prison for the English King Richard the Lionheart, and the Dürnstein Abbey with its distinctive blue and white tower are definitely worth a visit.
