MELK, AUSTRIA – SPITZ, AUSTRIA. In the morning, you can visit the 900-year-old Melk Abbey situated high atop the granite cliffs of the Danube. You can also opt to join a guided hike to the abbey, with the option to join the guided tour, or you may choose to bike to Marbach before returning to Melk and the ship for lunch. During the afternoon, journey to Spitz and take a guided excursion to Dürnstein to stroll along the cobblestone streets to the Baroque Stiftskirche, with its famed church tower on a walking tour. Those who wish a more active adventure of the area can hike to the historic Dürnstein Fortress, cycle through Spitz, or hike around Spitz up to Rotes Tor. In the evening, be treated to an exclusive wine festival where you’ll enjoy some of the region’s famous wines. (B,L,D) *Excursion available on cruise dates between April - October
Melk is an Austrian town situated on the River Danube. Located west of Vienna, the town is mostly famous for its 11th Century Melk Abbey, a magnificent monastery built high above the town. Melk Abbey is the largest example of Baroque architecture in the Wachau Valley, with the valley itself awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2000. Its steep terraced vineyards mean vinters cultivate with traditional manual practices and the springtime sees this unique landscape covered in apricot tree blossoms. Strolling around the streets of Melk Old Town, visitors will find the Town Hall Square, the Main Square, the old Post Office, now a local museum, Old Abbey Tavern, and Kremser Strasse. River cruises, self-guided walking tours and cycle tours are also extremely popular around Melk, as the Wachau Valley offers unique landscape to be explored and enjoyed. Art festivals and Baroque music is celebrated each year with the Melk Baroque Days, an international festival.