Wachau, Cultural valley in Lower Austria, Austria
The Wachau is a river valley along the Danube in Lower Austria, stretching roughly 36 kilometers between Melk and Krems. The slopes are covered with terraced vineyards, rows of fruit trees and small stone walls, while historic village centers with church towers and half-timbered houses line the riverbanks below.
Archaeological finds point to early settlements from the Paleolithic era, when people used the riverbanks for hunting and fishing. The name Wahowa was first recorded in documents in 853, as Frankish monasteries began encouraging viticulture on the south-facing slopes.
The name comes from a Slavic word meaning bend or loop, describing the winding river landscape along this stretch of the Danube. Walking through the villages, you often find small chapels and wine taverns where local winemaking families serve their harvest and welcome guests into simple tasting rooms.
Boat services on the Danube connect the larger towns and offer views of the terraced landscape during the journey. Cycling paths and hiking routes pass through vineyards and orchards, with many sections involving some uphill effort if you head into the hills.
The ruins of Dürnstein Castle mark the spot where King Richard I of England was held captive during his return from the Third Crusade. Legend says a traveling minstrel discovered the king by singing a song only the two of them knew, and Richard answered through the castle walls.
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