Donau-fietspad 8/7

The journey continues along the Inn to the three-river city of Passau. Here we recommend a short city tour, a visit to the cathedral with a concert on the largest church organ in the world (except Sundays and public holidays). The journey continues along the Danube via Obernzell to Engelhartszell (Austria's only Trappist monastery). You reach the Schlögener Loop on the northern side through the Donauleiten nature reserve. Here the granite has proven to be an insurmountable opponent and forced the Danube to change direction by 180 degrees. While a ferry takes you to the other bank to your hotel, you have time to observe this natural phenomenon.

Hotel example:

Cat. A and Cat. B: Danube Loop

Cat. C: Gasthof Draxler

Today you cycle through the green of the Eferding Basin via the Danube market of Aschach, Ottensheim and Wilhering to the Upper Austrian capital of Linz. In keeping with the motto: "It all starts in Linz", the numerous restaurants in the historic old town are perfect for a stop. Other highlights of Europe's Capital of Culture 2009 include the wonderful view from Pöstlingberg or a stroll along the Danube bank.

Hotel example:

Cat. A: Leonardo Boutique Hotel Linz 

Cat. B: Courtyard by Marriott

Cat. C: Donauwelle

For a change, you will head a little way away from the course of the Danube to St. Florian (Augustinian Canonry) and Enns. In Enns, you will visit the town square with the 60-meter-high town tower, the landmark of Austria's oldest town, or visit the archaeological collection in the Lauriacum Town Museum. You will then travel along the Danube again and first reach the wonderful baroque town of Grein. Here you have the opportunity to get an impression of Austria's oldest town theater that is still in use. You can also visit the Maritime Museum or Greinburg.

Hotel example:

Cat. A: Landgasthof Winter

Cat. B: Pension Martha

Cat. C: Gasthof zur Donaubrücke

The section of the Danube that was once feared by sailors now awaits cyclists - the Strudengau. Where once people had to fight against the currents of the Danube, you can now cycle comfortably. In Maria Taferl, high above the Danube, there is a magnificent pilgrimage church that attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.

Hotel example:

Cat. A: Post Melk

Cat. B: Donauhof Emmersdorf

Cat. C: Wachauerhof

In Melk today you should pause for a moment and look up - otherwise you will miss the beauty of Melk Abbey, which towers over the Danube. As soon as you leave the town behind you, you will enter the landscape of the Wachau, where you will be treated to the enchanting ambience of the orchards and vineyards typical of the area. Via the wine towns of Spitz, Weißenkirchen and past the Dürnstein castle ruins, you will end the stage in Krems, the 1000-year-old town, or in Tulln. Of course, a visit to a wine tasting is a must during your stay in the Wachau, which we have organized for you today.

Hotel example:

Cat. A:  Best Western Hotel Tulln

Cat. B and Cat. C: Gasthof zum Schwan

The last few kilometers of the bike tour will take you to the Danube metropolis of Vienna in a relaxed manner. Depending on the option, part of the route will be covered by train. After your arrival, you will check into your room and can enjoy all the advantages of the city for the rest of the day. Treat yourself to a "Verlängerter" and a piece of the famous Sachertorte in one of Vienna's typical coffee houses. Stroll along Vienna's flagship shopping street, Mariahilfer Strasse, visit St. Stephen's Cathedral or see the most important sights with a ride in one of the famous "Fiaker" carriages.

Hotel example:

Cat. A: MAXX by Steigenberger

Cat. B: R oomz Prater

Cat. C: N H Danube City

Vertrek of verlenging.