Falkenwände: Wachau Valley's Majestic Balcony
Hike to the Falkenwände for breathtaking views of the Danube and Wachau Valley, steeped in history and natural beauty.
The Falkenwände, or Falcon Walls, near Dürnstein, Austria, offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Hike through vineyards and forests to reach these impressive cliffs, steeped in history and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Falkenwände
- Gemeinde Dürnstein,3601, Dürnstein, AT
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trails can be rocky and steep in places.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if planning a longer hike.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change quickly.
- Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Combine your hike with a visit to Dürnstein Castle and the town's charming center.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Dürnstein, head west towards the Dürnstein Castle ruins. The trails to Falkenwände start near the castle entrance. Follow the marked hiking paths (primarily green markings) uphill. The initial ascent goes through the town, then through vineyards and wooded areas. The hike to the main viewpoint takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on your pace. Note that some sections, particularly the Vogelbergsteig, are steep and require sturdy footwear.
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus (Line 715 from Krems or Melk), disembark at the Dürnstein Parkplatz P2 or Dürnstein Bahnhof stop. From either stop, walk towards the town center and follow signs to Dürnstein Castle. The hiking trails to Falkenwände begin near the castle ruins. A single bus fare from Krems to Dürnstein ranges from €2 to €11, depending on the zone. From the bus stop to the trail entrance is approximately a 15-20 minute walk.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that the Dürnstein city center is a no-parking zone. Use one of the paid parking lots outside the town center. From the parking lots, it's a 7-10 minute walk to the town center and the base of the hiking trails leading to Falkenwände. Parking costs approximately €4 for 2 hours, with increasing prices for longer durations. From the parking area, follow signs towards the Dürnstein Castle; the trailheads are located nearby.
Discover more about Falkenwände
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dürnsteiner Kanzel
3.2 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Danube, terraced vineyards, and historic Dürnstein from this scenic Wachau Valley overlook.
Pfarrkirche Mariae Himmelfahrt
3.4 km
Discover the historic Pfarrkirche Mariae Himmelfahrt in Weissenkirchen, a stunning fortified church in the heart of the Wachau Valley.
Parish Church Weißenkirchen in the Wachau
3.4 km
Discover the Parish Church of Weißenkirchen, a stunning fortified church blending Gothic and Baroque architecture in the heart of the Wachau Valley.
Renaissancehotel Raffelsberger HOF
3.6 km
Experience historical charm and modern comfort in a Renaissance-era shipmaster's house, nestled in the heart of the Wachau Valley.
Start Vogelbergsteig
3.6 km
Hike the Vogelbergsteig in Dürnstein for stunning Wachau Valley views, a moderate challenge, and a taste of Austrian history and natural beauty.
Weingut Hermenegild Mang
3.7 km
Experience centuries of winemaking tradition at Weingut Hermenegild Mang in the heart of Austria's scenic Wachau Valley. Award-winning wines & local cuisine.
Mugler
4.1 km
Discover breathtaking Wachau Valley views from Mugler in Rossatz-Arnsdorf, a serene escape into nature, culture, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Wachau
4.2 km
Explore Austria's Wachau Valley: a UNESCO-listed landscape of vineyards, historic towns, and Danube River charm. A perfect day trip from Vienna.
ATN Dürnstein/Wachau Fähranlegestelle
4.2 km
A charming, eco-friendly ferry connecting Dürnstein to the Wachau Valley, offering scenic views and access to hiking and biking trails.
Höhereck
4.7 km
Discover Höhereck Nature Reserve in Dürnstein: a haven for diverse wildlife, rare plants, and stunning landscapes in the heart of the Wachau.
Weingut Holzapfel Gutshofrestaurant Prandtauerhof
4.9 km
Experience Austrian wine culture at Weingut Holzapfel Gutshofrestaurant Prandtauerhof in Weißenkirchen, a historic estate offering award-winning wines and cuisine.
Kienstockspitze
5.5 km
Hike Kienstockspitze for breathtaking Wachau views, diverse trails, and a rewarding outdoor experience in Lower Austria's scenic landscape.
Hofmeisterei Hirtzberger
5.6 km
Experience fine Austrian dining with a modern twist in a historic setting, complemented by exquisite local wines in the heart of the Wachau Valley.
Marterl Pfaffenbergweg
6.3 km
Discover the serene Marterl Pfaffenbergweg in Krems an der Donau, a charming landmark offering a peaceful retreat into nature and local culture.
Wehrkirche St. Michael
7.1 km
Discover a unique medieval fortified church in Austria's Wachau Valley, blending history, architecture, and stunning views in a peaceful village setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Donauinsel Pritzenau
2.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Donauinsel Pritzenau, an idyllic island retreat on the Danube River, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.
Donau Aussichtspunkt
2.3 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley from this serene Rührsdorf viewpoint, a perfect escape into nature's beauty.
Kügerlwand
2.8 km
Hike to Kügerlwand in Weißenkirchen for breathtaking Wachau Valley views: vineyards, Danube River, and charming villages await.
Vino Taurus
3.2 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Wachau Valley's vineyards, the Danube River, and picturesque villages from the Vino Taurus observation deck.
Vogelbergsteig
3.3 km
Explore the Vogelbergsteig hiking trail in Dürnstein, Austria, for breathtaking views of the Danube and an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Steinerne Sepp
3.5 km
Discover captivating stone sculptures and local folklore amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Wachau Valley at Steinerne Sepp in Weißenkirchen.
Silberne Weintraube
3.6 km
A monument in Weißenkirchen symbolizing the town's rich wine-making heritage in the heart of the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Wachauer Auge
3.7 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views of the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley from the Wachauer Auge observation deck in Weißenkirchen, a unique art installation and local landmark.
Wachauer Nase
3.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Wachauer Nase, a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure in the heart of Austria.
Dürnstein Castle
3.9 km
Explore the historical marvel of Dürnstein Castle, offering breathtaking views and rich tales from Austria's past in the scenic Wachau Valley.
Stift Dürnstein
4.0 km
Discover the stunning Stift Dürnstein, a historical monastery in Austria’s Wachau Valley, where rich history meets breathtaking architecture and serene landscapes.
Steinformationen Dürnstein
4.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Steinformationen Dürnstein, a must-visit tourist attraction in Austria's stunning countryside.
Kupferwandl
4.4 km
Explore Kupferwandl's scenic hiking trails in Austria's Wachau region for breathtaking views and a perfect nature escape.
Menthalgraben
4.4 km
Discover Menthalgraben in Dürnstein, Austria: a scenic Danube spot with castle ruins, vineyards, and rich history in the heart of the Wachau Valley.
Memorial to priest Erich Hauer
4.4 km
Reflect on faith and community service at the Memorial to Priest Erich Hauer, a peaceful tribute in St. Pölten, Austria.
Essential places to dine
Gartenhotel & Weingut Pfeffel Dürnstein
2.5 km
Experience relaxation and exquisite dining at Gartenhotel & Weingut Pfeffel Dürnstein in Austria's stunning Wachau Valley.
Landgasthaus Essl
3.0 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Landgasthaus Essl in Rührsdorf - where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.
Heuriger Fischer - Wein- und Obstbau
3.2 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine and exquisite local wines at Heuriger Fischer in Rührsdorf's picturesque vineyards.
Achleiten Stube
3.2 km
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KIRCHENWIRT Hotel Restaurant Wachau
3.4 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Kirchenwirt Hotel Restaurant in the scenic Wachau Valley - a perfect blend of flavor and hospitality.
Fesslhütte
3.6 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Fesslhütte in Dürnstein, where stunning views meet delectable flavors.
Küffer Keller
3.8 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Küffer Keller in Dürnstein - where local flavors meet stunning views along the Danube.
Restaurant Schloss Dürnstein
3.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at Restaurant Schloss Dürnstein with stunning views and authentic Austrian cuisine.
Restaurant Heinzle
4.0 km
Discover authentic Austrian cuisine at Restaurant Heinzle in Weißenkirchen - where tradition meets taste amidst stunning vineyard landscapes.
Die Flößerei in Rossatz
4.0 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine with stunning views at Die Flößerei in Rossatz - a culinary journey through local flavors.
Gasthaus Kuenringer
4.0 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Gasthaus Kuenringer in Dürnstein, where generous portions meet breathtaking views.
Dürnsteinerhof
4.1 km
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Altes Presshaus
4.1 km
Discover authentic Austrian cuisine and fine local wines at Altes Presshaus in Dürnstein's picturesque setting.
Restaurant Richard Löwenherz
4.1 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine with stunning views at Restaurant Richard Löwenherz in Dürnstein.
Alter Klosterkeller
4.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Trafik Glaser
3.4 km
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PETfit
3.6 km
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Vinothek Thal Wachau
3.6 km
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Wachauer Bauernladen
3.6 km
Explore Wachauer Bauernladen, where local craftsmanship meets the flavors of the Wachau Valley, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
SPAR
3.9 km
Discover local flavors and everyday essentials at SPAR in Weißenkirchen, a charming supermarket filled with Austrian delights.
Schloss Greisslerei
4.0 km
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Dürnsteindl
4.0 km
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Donau Stein Design
4.0 km
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House of colors - handmade Art by Corinna Kirchhof
4.1 km
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Gärtnerei Hick
4.1 km
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Domäne Wachau Shop 11a Dürnstein Altstadt
4.1 km
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AlexAndrA Fashion
4.1 km
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Wachauer Gift Shop - Karin Jungmayer
4.1 km
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Wachauer Safranmanufaktur
4.4 km
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Blütenkleid
5.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Weingut Pomaßl
1.2 km
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Pulker`s Heuriger
3.1 km
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Weinterrasse Kropf
3.4 km
Experience the flavors of the Wachau Valley at Weinterrasse Kropf, where local wines and delicious cuisine come together in a stunning setting.
Weingut Franz ZOTTL
3.4 km
Experience the enchanting Weingut Franz ZOTTL, where exquisite wines and authentic Austrian hospitality come together in a breathtaking vineyard setting.
Ferdl Denk
3.4 km
Discover the elegance of Ferdl Denk, a premier winery in the Wachau Valley, offering exquisite wines, cozy accommodations, and stunning vineyard views.
Das Bogerl
3.4 km
Discover the charm of Das Bogerl, a cozy bar in the heart of Wachau, where delightful drinks and local culture come together.
Johann Mang
3.6 km
Discover the exquisite local wines and warm hospitality at Johann Mang Wine Bar in the heart of the Wachau Valley.
Schnitzer's seit 1988
4.0 km
Discover the flavors of Austria at Schnitzer's, a charming bar and restaurant in Dürnstein, known for its exquisite local dishes and fine wines.
Erni's Schmackerlbox
4.2 km
Experience the charm of Erni's Schmackerlbox in Dürnstein, where local flavors and a cozy atmosphere invite you to unwind amidst stunning views.
Beach Bar Rossatzbach
4.2 km
Experience tranquility at Beach Bar Rossatzbach, a serene riverside bar perfect for relaxation and enjoying delightful beverages.
Brauhaus Wösendorf Friesenbichler OG
5.5 km
Discover the essence of Austrian brews and hearty cuisine at Brauhaus Wösendorf, nestled in the stunning Wachau Valley.
Karl Kronberger
5.7 km
Experience the finest local wines at Karl Kronberger, a cozy wine bar nestled in the stunning Wachau Valley, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Weingut/Heuriger Eigl
5.8 km
Experience the flavors of the Wachau Valley at Weingut/Heuriger Eigl, a top winery for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Piano-Bierlokal
7.5 km
Discover the charm of Krems at Piano-Bierlokal, where scenic views meet a vibrant beer garden and local brews await.
Leopold - bar, wine bar, shop
8.1 km
Discover Leopold, a cozy bar and wine shop in Krems an der Donau, perfect for wine lovers and social gatherings, offering a delightful ambiance and extensive selections.
