Nestled between the vineyards: The western Weinviertel Weinstrasse wine route

The best time for an unforgettable visit to the western Weinviertel starts when the fronts of the taverns are decorated with plants and flowers.

Retz and Röschitz are known far beyond Austria’s borders for their wonderful wines. The best way to experience the western Weinviertel in all its glory is... to visit the western Weinviertel. Here are our top tips for visitors.

The land of wine: Follow the Weinstrasse wine route through the western Weinviertel.

Retz and the idyllic Veltliner-Hochburg Röschitz are probably the best-known wine towns in the western Weinviertel. The wine town of Retz, which is the vinophile heart of the region, stands out thanks to its 20 km long Erlebniskeller (Adventure Cellar) – which offers guided tours packed with history and myths – and the annual grape harvesting festival, during which wine flows straight from the town fountain. On the 130 km-long route, you can explore the longest wine cellar lane in the Weinviertel – the Kellergasse Hadres – and the beautiful Pulkautal valley with its wildly overgrown vineyards.

Tavern hopping: Our tour tips.

Pleasure cyclists like us will love the “Weintour mit Einsichten” (Weinviertel DAC) route. It leads through the gently rolling countryside of Retz, and passes historical settlement sites and romantic vineyards. Delicious local dishes await you in the taverns. Retz, Pulkau, Zellendorf or Röschitz are all perfect starting and finishing points of the circular route. You can enjoy a comfortable night here after a full-day tour. Just as stunning and varied is the Sternfahrt im Retzer Land (Retzer Land Rally) route, which is best done in three stages. The Sitzendorfer Kellergasse themed trail in Hollabrunn is certainly a highlight for hikers. Walk in the footsteps of a cellar cat and hear funny, true and tasty tales about wine at 24 experience stations.

This file marked “Wine” contains a top secret tip for investigators.

Are you keen to explore the world of Inspector Polt, created by author Alfred Komarek, for yourself? On the Jetzelsdorf wine cellar lane tour, crime and wine fans can imagine that they are in the world of Austria’s number one sleuth. The walk leads to settings mentioned in the book, as well as locations used in the film adaptation starring Erwin Steinhauer. Don't forget to listen out for quotes from the wine-loving inspector. Finally, a suggestion for families: the Veltliner & Veltlinchen tour in Zellerndorf.