Teufelsmauer, Wachau Travel Guide

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Discover the Teufelsmauer, a captivating rock formation in Austria's Wachau Valley, steeped in legend and natural beauty.

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Teufelsmauer

The Teufelsmauer, or Devil's Wall, is a striking rock formation located in the picturesque Wachau Valley of Austria. This natural monument, a spur of rock that dramatically juts into the Danube River, has been a protected landmark since 1929 and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the region's geological history and folklore.

A brief summary to Teufelsmauer

Donau Bundesstraße 19, 3620, AT
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Teufelsmauer.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the rocky terrain around Teufelsmauer.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Wachau Valley and the Danube River.
Combine your visit with a wine tasting at one of the local vineyards in Spitz.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the area can be exposed to the elements.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Wachauer Nase

Stift Dürnstein

Dürnstein Castle

Domäne Wachau

Donaublick Spitz

Explore Teufelsmauer on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Teufelsmauer, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Teufelsmauer via public transport, start at either Krems or Dürnstein train stations in the Wachau Valley. From there, take a train towards St. Johann. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date times and connections. Purchase tickets online, at the station, or sometimes from the driver. A single fare for a short trip within the Wachau Valley typically costs around €2-€4.
Driving

If driving, Teufelsmauer is located directly off Donau Bundesstraße 19 between Spitz and St. Johann. Limited parking is available near the site. Be aware that Austria has tolls on all motorways and expressways. A vignette (toll sticker) is required for vehicles up to 3.5 tons. A 10-day vignette costs €8.90. There are no additional tolls on the immediate approach to Teufelsmauer.
Walking

Teufelsmauer is easily accessible by foot for those exploring the Wachau Valley. It's a scenic walk along the Donau Bundesstraße 19 between Spitz and St. Johann. From Spitz, it's approximately a 30-45 minute walk. There are no specific costs associated with walking to the site.

Discover more about Teufelsmauer

The Teufelsmauer, meaning Devil's Wall, is a fascinating rock formation situated in the stunning Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Austria. Located between the towns of Spitz and St. Johann, this natural monument is a distinctive spur of rock that extends into the Danube River, creating a dramatic and captivating landscape.The Teufelsmauer is composed of hard sandstones dating back to the Upper Cretaceous period. Over time, erosion has sculpted the rock into its unique shape, inspiring numerous local legends and myths. One popular tale suggests that the devil attempted to build a wall to obstruct the miracles occurring at the Church of St. Johann, but was thwarted by a rooster's crow before he could finish. Furious, the devil knocked down part of the wall, leaving the Teufelsmauer as a reminder of his failed endeavor.The area around Teufelsmauer has a rich history, with evidence of settlements dating back to 2000 BC. The nearby town of Spitz has been cultivating fine wine for over 1,100 years, adding to the region's allure. Visitors can explore the area by hiking along the Danube, taking in the breathtaking views of the valley, vineyards, and the Teufelsmauer itself. The shortest tunnel of the Donauuferbahn (Danube bank railway) is located here (12.43 meters).Today, the Teufelsmauer is a popular tourist attraction, drawing nature lovers and adventurers alike. The rock formation was declared a natural monument in 1929.