The Magic of Apricot Blossoms in the Wachau Valley
The Wachau Valley, a picturesque stretch along the Danube in Lower Austria, is particularly enchanting in spring, during the time of the apricot blossom, a true highlight for nature lovers and photographers. Here, you’ll find a unique combination of untouched landscapes, historical buildings, and culinary delights.
Timing of the Apricot Blossom in the Wachau Valley
The apricot blossom in the Wachau Valley is an annual natural spectacle that typically occurs from late March to mid-April. During this time, around 100,000 apricot trees transform into a spectacular sea of pink and white blossoms. The exact timing of the blossom may vary and is heavily dependent on weather conditions. Particularly noteworthy is the viewpoint from the hill overlooking Weißenkirchen.
Hiking through the Apricot Blossom
Apricot Mile Rossatz-Arnsdorf
In the municipality of Rossatz-Arnsdorf, which is known as Austria’s leading region in apricot cultivation, stretches the so-called “Apricot Mile.” This network consists of a total of seven hiking trails, inviting you to explore the picturesque apricot orchards and the agricultural farms dedicated to the cultivation of this fruit.
The “Apricot Mile” is divided into the sections “Apricot Mile West” and “Apricot Mile East.” The eastern part includes the villages of Rührsdorf, Rossatz, and Rossatzbach, while the western section encompasses the villages of St. Johann im Mauertale and the “four Arnsdorf” villages: Oberarnsdorf, Hofarnsdorf, Mitterarnsdorf, and Bacharnsdorf.
In the Salettl of Oberarnsdorf, there are information boards accessible around the clock providing comprehensive information about the Apricot Mile. For those arriving by public transportation, we recommend using the VOR bus line 720, which runs between Krems and Melk, making stops along the B33 federal road.
Sections of the Apricot Mile East:
- Section 1 (red): On the first stage of the Apricot Mile East, participants stroll through the picturesque apricot orchards of Rossatz and Rossatzbach. They are rewarded with magnificent views of the Danube and the historic town of Dürnstein. Approximately 5 kilometers long, estimated walking time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Section 2 (green): This stage of the Apricot Mile East starts in the center of Rossatz and leads hikers through idyllic apricot and vineyards to Rührsdorf. Along the way, numerous wine taverns invite you to linger, enjoy, and rest. Approximately 4.5 kilometers, with an average walking time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Section 3 (blue): On the third stage of the Apricot Mile East, hikers can admire the magnificent apricot orchards between Rührsdorf and Rossatz, with picturesque views of the Danube over to the southern bank of the Wachau. Approximately 3 kilometers long, walking time is about 45 minutes.
Sections of the Apricot Mile West:
- Section 1 (red): The first stage of the Apricot Mile leads along magnificent apricot orchards from Oberarnsdorf to Mitterarnsdorf, offering picturesque views of the Danube. Approximately 4.3 km long, approximate walking time is about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Section 2 (blue): The second stage of the Apricot Mile starts in Oberarnsdorf and winds along the Danube, passing charming apricot orchards, to St. Johann im Mauerthale. Approximately 2.3 km long, approximate walking time is about 35 minutes.
- Section 3 (green): On the third stage of the Apricot Mile West, it goes from Oberarnsdorf through picturesque apricot orchards to the ferry landing stage, before the route leads back to Oberarnsdorf. Approximately 2.7 km long, approximate walking time is about 45 minutes.
- Section 4 (yellow): The fourth stage of the Apricot Mile takes us through idyllic wine villages and enchanted apricot orchards, with constant views of the Danube. Along our way, we encounter an old Roman road and discover impressive rock formations hidden in the depths of the forest. Approximately 6 km long, approximate walking time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Oberloiben, Dürnstein
Another easy circular hike with a length of 1.8 km starts in Oberloiben, running flat and taking about 1 hour. This hike is perfect for experiencing the apricot blossom in the surroundings of Dürnstein, one of the most diverse places in the Wachau Valley.
