Most tourists explore the Danube region in Upper Austria with a bicycle tour along the “Donauradweg” (Danube Cycle Path). This is the major tourist attraction of the region and one of the most popular cycling routes in Europe. Understandably so, as it’s a beautiful route along a stunning river. It’s no wonder that the river also inspired Johan Strauss to compose his “The Blue Danube”.

Possibly, during such a holiday, cycling the route becomes more important than the surroundings. You might then pass by interesting places. Yet these are worth visiting. They can make your stay in this area even more rewarding than the cycle route already does. You’ll find suggestions for these excursions along the route in this blog. Discover the possibilities and experience an extra dimension to your visit to this diverse region!

The Schlögener Donauschlinge with viewpoint above the Danube

We cycle part of this route towards the village of Engelhartszell and pass the builder of the so-called Zille (a type of boat) en route. Here we take a trip on such a handmade wooden Zille over the water. This brings us to the Donauschlinge. This is the point where the river makes a 180-degree turn. It’s wonderful to see how the long boats are steered through here against the current.

You can best view this bend from the Schlögener-Schlinge panorama point. A spot we explore further on foot. You don’t want to miss such a view! From Haibach, it’s a half-hour walk uphill. The walk starts behind the large hotel located here. It’s a steep climb but worth the effort. A nice bonus is that the area is a World Heritage site because it was part of the borders of the ancient Roman Empire: the Danube Limes.

The surprising Engelhartszell in the Danube region in Upper Austria

Returning from the boat trip, we continue the route along the Danube. To reach Engelhartszell, we take the beautiful old ferry across the river. The town has an abbey and a museum that are more than worth a visit.

Abbey of Stift Engelszell

The church of the Stift Engelszell abbey is open, allowing us to admire the interior of this building. The decorations are lavish in nature. The style is Rococo, recognisable by the soft pastel colours used here. Part of the roof was destroyed by a fire. More modern illustrations have been added here, entirely in keeping with the style. The abbey itself doesn’t have many residents left. Only four monks still live there. There’s a beautiful garden that’s accessible for a small fee, with a lovely view over the Danube. And as a surprise: liqueurs and beer are made in this abbey. The title of abbey beer is rare in Austria. We enjoy a unique beer here in a special atmosphere.

Opposite the entrance to the abbey, we’re directed to a unique coffee house entirely in Sissi style. The decor leaves no doubt about the owner’s love for this empress. Everything in the busy space refers to the 1800s in which the empress lived. Only the TV is a dissonant, although it does show the Sissi film.

Surprising Schütz-Art Museum in the Danube region in Upper Austria

In contrast to the abbey, the art museum is sleek and modern. It’s the world’s first fully energy-neutral museum. The building has clean lines and large windows facing the Danube. The museum is owned and furnished by the Schütz couple. There’s a changing collection with plenty of variety in styles and objects.

Inside the museum, we meet artist Paul Ching-Bor (1963). He’s painting several works here on the spot with the theme ‘water’. We receive a personal explanation of his work and approach. It’s unique to meet an artist like this. It’s a regular part of the museum to facilitate an artist. For several months, they can work here undisturbed. The toll: a few works must be given to the museum.

Jochenstein near Engelhartszell

Another sight is the enormous dam built in the Danube at this location. It’s the Jochenstein power plant. Next to it are huge locks to enable boat traffic on the river. We enjoy a delicious lunch at Bernhard’s restaurant with a view of this structure. We meet a Dutch couple who are cycling the Donauradweg on electric bikes. Having started in Passau, they’re enjoying it immensely. They consider themselves lucky with the crossing to this beautiful village.

General impression of the Danube region in Upper Austria

The area is attractive and interesting to discover. Doing this by bicycle adds an extra dimension. Especially the route along the Danube is very well set up for cyclists. Take time to make excursions to the various places in this area along the way. It makes the (cycling) holiday even more enjoyable. After all, it’s about the journey, not the destination!

Other topics you may be interested in

• Linz, the artistic and cultural capital of Upper Austria
• Enjoying the summer in Salzburgerland
• City break to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart
• Cycle tour through Salzburger Land
• Holiday destination Austria