Dürnstein is a town located in the Northeast of Austria, situated on the Danube river. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and wine region of Wachauer. It is a popular destination for wine lovers as many wineries offer accommodation. Home to a well-known wine area, Dürnstein is celebrated for its vintages, its fairytale-like setting of picturesque architecture and vistas, incredible historical importance –and even apricots. Durstein was home to the Keunringer Castle in 1192, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned and held captive for a year by Leopold V, Duke of Austria. It is this singular event which originally put the city on the map and forever left an impressive imprint.

Apricots and Wine

One of the most enjoyable ways to revel in the beauty of Dürnstein is with a sip of the region’s superb wine and a taste of its famed apricots. Apricot liqueur, apricot brandy, chocolate and jams are all indulgent and delicious treats.

The Stories of Keunringer Castle

Sometimes called the ‘Pearl of the Wachau,” Dürnstein was first mentioned in 1192 when Richard the Lionheart (also known as Richard I of England) was kept captive in the city’s castle during the Third Crusade. The castle may now be in ruins, but it was once impressive enough to hold one of Europe’s most renowned rulers. And while Richard was released upon an enormous ransom, there is a legend that tells of a faithful servant Blondel who located him by traveling throughout the land singing a secret song until he heard a prisoner able to sing it back to him.

Of course, for this legend to be real, Blondel would surely have had to climb the hill the castle is perched on. If you choose, walk in the footsteps of history as you follow Blondel’s path up to a hill which rewards with stunning views of the city and valley below.

A Tower of Blue 

Alternatively, admire the castle from afar and soak in the beauty of the cobblestone narrow streets, colorful homes, historic buildings and the famed Abbey Church. The former Augustinian Monastery of Dürnstein, the Abbey and its unique blue tower are one of the city's best loved landmarks. While the church was originally built in 1372, the tower (and indeed, the church that we see today) was constructed centuries later as part of a major renovation. Its luminous blue and white colors symbolize the resurrection and overcoming of suffering in a freer, celestial world. The tower’s façade further includes numerous sculptures and a clock. The Baroque-style Abbey continues to be a popular place of worship and is often the setting for weddings.

Dürnstein is a town located in the Northeast of Austria, situated on the Danube river. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and wine region of Wachauer. It is a popular destination for wine lovers as many wineries offer accommodation. In addition to wine tasting and vineyard tours, visitors will find exploring the area on foot is easy and enjoyable. Take one of the many beautiful hiking trails across ancient rocks and admire the impressive views across the Danube valley. Children will enjoy exploring the outdoors of Dürnstein too, with outdoor playgrounds and theme trails available to keep them entertained. In addition, children and adults will enjoy Austria’s only outdoor biological swimming pool, Kuenringerbad, with an average temperature of 23 degrees celsius. Enjoy views of the town from overhead helicopter tours, leisurely river excursions, or hike up into the mountains and explore some of Dürnstein’s ruins. The mountains offer the ruins of Dürnstein castle and city wall as well as beautiful flora and fauna to spot.