Falkenwände: A Wachau Valley Vista
Hike to the Falkenwände for breathtaking views of the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the historic town of Dürnstein.
The Falkenwände (Falcon Walls) are majestic cliffs overlooking the Wachau Valley near Dürnstein, Austria. Offering panoramic views of the Danube River, terraced vineyards, and rolling hills, they provide an immersive experience into the region's natural beauty and history.
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 in the mountains.
- 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 is 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. There are no entrance fees or tolls to access the Falkenwände trails.
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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 four 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.
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.
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.
Hoher Stein
9.4 km
Hike to Hoher Stein for panoramic Wachau Valley views, a thrilling via ferrata, and an unforgettable outdoor experience in Austria.
Alte Straßenwalze
10.2 km
Explore the Alte Straßenwalze in Krems an der Donau, a unique historical attraction that highlights Austria's engineering marvels amidst stunning landscapes.
Waldviertler Heimatmuseum Altes Eishaus
11.6 km
Explore the heritage of Waldviertel at the Altes Eishaus museum in Gföhl, showcasing local history and traditions in a unique ice storage building.
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.
Teisenhoferhof Wachaumuseum
3.5 km
Explore the captivating history of the Wachau Valley at Teisenhoferhof Wachaumuseum, a must-see destination for all history enthusiasts.
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.
Weingut Hermenegild Mang
3.7 km
Experience the exquisite wines and breathtaking views at Weingut Hermenegild Mang in the scenic Wachau Valley, Austria.
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
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Wachauer Nase in Austria, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Dürnstein Castle
3.9 km
Visit Dürnstein Castle for a captivating journey through history and stunning views of the Wachau Valley along the Danube River.
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.
Wachau
4.2 km
Discover the stunning beauty and rich cultural heritage of Wachau, a UNESCO World Heritage site along the Danube River in 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
Discover Achleiten Stube: Where Italian Flavors Meet Austrian Hospitality in the Stunning Wachau Valley.
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
Discover Alter Klosterkeller in Dürnstein: where authentic Austrian cuisine meets exquisite local wines in a charming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Trafik Glaser
3.4 km
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PETfit
3.6 km
Explore PETfit in Weißenkirchen, a top-notch pet supply store dedicated to keeping your furry friends happy and healthy with premium products.
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
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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.
