THINGS TO SEE AND DO HERE
If you’re considering a trip to the beautiful Wachau Valley of Austria, a landscape of vineyards, abbeys and the majestic Danube River, you should visit one of the grandest monuments, high on a hilltop, the historic Göttweig Abbey. Here are 6 reasons to visit the magnificent Stift Göttweig, a Benedictine Monastery.
Göttweig Abbey is a little off the beaten track and not many tourists venture out here, unless they’re on a tour or cruise, as I was. Whilst on our Scenic River Cruise, sailing the Danube, we docked in the nearby town of Dürnstein, and I chose to take a guided tour to this hidden gem, a huge Baroque Monastery complex on Göttweig Mountain, in the state of Lower Austria.
1. Enjoy The Breathtaking Scenery
Located high up on top of the Göttweig mountain sits the fortress-like monastery, a spiritual centre set in stunning landscape, with sweeping views over the Wachau vineyards, the Danube River, and surrounding countryside of the Wachau Valley, nestled between the towns of Krems and Dürnstein, in Lower Austria.
A visit here is worth it just for the breathtaking panorama and serene atmosphere, far away from the bustling cities, perfect just to relax and unwind.
2. Explore A UNESCO World Heritage Site
If you love touring historic sites as I do, in particular UNESCO World Heritage Sites, then you need to explore the glorious Göttweig Abbey, situated on a sprawling estate of 13,000 acres!
A majestic monument, originally established in 1083, and rebuilt twice due to destruction by fires. Some parts of the medieval structures still remain, such as the castle, crypt, and some ruins.
It became a respected school of learning for noble sons, and flourished in the Middle Ages.
It is still a working monastery with more than 30 monks living here, who help maintain the Abbey, together with staff.
3. Admire The Grand Staircase and Ceiling Fresco
The Abbey houses a Museum of its history and a tour is a must. I was fortunate enough to do so and I was super-impressed by the beautiful ornate staircase, the highlight of the tour, in my opinion.
This grand imperial staircase, Kaiserstiege, is the largest Baroque staircase in Austria, with a stunning ceiling fresco above it, an angelic masterpiece painted in 1739.
The staircase accesses the imperial apartments which were originally built to lodge traveling royalty, such as Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI and Maria Theresa, Queen of Hungary. These staterooms now house exhibits of artwork and artefacts from the monastery’s rich heritage, including valuable coins, antiquities, musical manuscripts and more.
4. See The Abbey Church
The Abbey’s Church is a Romanesque Baroque style building located in the centre courtyard. The landmark is a yellow/orange colour and has a double tower facade, of which the spires were never built. Interestingly, the clocks are only painted on.
Inside the church are elaborate Baroque and gold detailing throughout, ornate sculptures and frescoes.
The Abbey’s founder, St. Altmann, is enshrined here.
5. Walk and Hike Around The Abbey Grounds
Walk around the vast Abbey grounds or hike on numerous paths and trails in the picturesque forests and take in nature, vineyards, orchards and wonderful views of the Wachau Valley and all its glory.
You can join this half-day hiking tour of the area, for a memorable experience, with an expert guide.
6. Taste Apricots and Wines
The Abbey produces a variety of goods on the premises, crafted by the Benedictine monks. These include apricot jams, liqueurs, beer and wines, which are sold in the gift shop here.
The apricot orchards of the Abbey are famous, a distinct Wachau variety. You can try the apricot juice, liqueurs and schnapps, as well as apricot sweets, all made on the grounds.
One of the oldest wineries in Austria, the Abbey has 26 hectares of vineyards on the estate’s hillside. You can tour the Abbey’s cellars and sample the different varieties of wines made here, and of course, purchase wines.
Konvent Bier is the signature brew of the Abbey, produced externally, but sold in the Abbey shop.
The on site restaurant also serves the Abbey’s produce which you can enjoy with a view from the panoramic terrace.
General Info
- Trains to Furth Göttweig train station are available, then a 20 minute walk.
- Check Göttweig Abbey’s website for opening times, in March to November.
- Book a stay at the Abbey, in one of 35 monastic style rooms for a peaceful retreat.
- Enjoy lunch or a coffee at the Abbey’s Restaurant or Cafe.
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One Comment
Göttweig Abbey looks like such a beautiful place to visit! That grand staircase and ceiling fresco are incredible, and I’d love to see the views over the Wachau Valley and Danube. And tasting some of the abbey’s wine sounds like a pretty perfect way to finish the visit!