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    DDSG ship cruising through the Wachau on the Danube
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    By Boat Through the Wachau – the Most Beautiful Danube Routes from Dürnstein

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    Experience wine and World Heritage from the water: the DDSG boat service connects Dürnstein, Spitz, Weißenkirchen and Melk – a relaxed outing for connoisseurs.

    The Wachau from a different perspective

    The Danube is not only the lifeline of the Wachau, it is also its most beautiful viewpoint. From the water, you see what hikers and cyclists often miss: the steep vineyard terraces, the castle ruins above the river, the small wine villages with their onion-domed churches. A boat trip is the most relaxed way to experience the UNESCO World Heritage region.

    The classic route: Krems – Melk

    The most popular day trip: aboard the DDSG-Blue Danube from Krems upstream to Melk – just under three hours, passing Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen, Spitz and Aggstein. Return either by the historic Wachaubahn railway or more comfortably by boat. If you want to visit Melk Abbey, plan around four hours on site.

    The insider tip: evening cruise with sunset

    In the summer months, various operators offer themed evening cruises – with tavern buffet, live music or wine tasting. The light of the setting sun on the vineyard slopes creates an unforgettable scene. We are happy to reserve tickets in advance for our hotel guests.

    Practical tips

    • Dürnstein dock is only a few minutes'' walk from the hotel
    • Main season: May to October, reduced schedule in the off-season
    • Seats: Upper deck for sunshine, salon protected from wind and rain
    • Food: Available on board, picnics welcome
    • Tickets: At the dock or via DDSG Blue Danube

    Combine boat and bike

    Particularly charming: cycle to Spitz (around 12 km flat along the Danube cycle path), enjoy a tavern stop, then take the boat back to Dürnstein. Two perspectives in one day. We are glad to arrange rental bikes for you.

    We help you plan

    At our reception you''ll find current timetables, recommendations for taverns along the route and insider tips not in any guidebook. For personal advice please call us on +43 2711 206.

    Sounds like your next stay?

    We are happy to advise you personally – by phone or simply via our enquiry form.

    Discover our wines

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    If you're looking for a personally run house with tranquillity, fine dining, wellness and a special location, we look forward to your enquiry – by phone or via the form.

    Request a personal offerCall +43 2711 206

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    Gartenhotel & Winery Pfeffel is a 4-star hotel in Dürnstein in the Wachau Valley, Lower Austria. Located within the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau, the hotel combines wellness, wine, culinary arts, and relaxation in a unique setting between the Danube, vineyards, and nature. Guests can look forward to a penthouse spa with a spacious wellness area, a restaurant serving regional and seasonal cuisine, and estate-grown wines from the Wachau. Thanks to its location near Dürnstein, the hotel is an ideal base for holidays on the Danube, wellness in the Wachau, hiking, cycling, river cruises, and memorable days in one of Austria's most beautiful regions.