DANUBE RIVER CRUISE: MELK TO SPITZ

River cruises are wonderful because the ship departs during the night and reaches the next destination by morning. On this particular evening, we were magically transported from Grein to Melk. Upon arrival, we hiked up to the Melk Benedictine Abbey, often referred to as the “Vatican of the North”. The most impressive feature of the abbey was its library, which housed thousands of volumes and manuscripts across 12 grand Baroque and Rococo rooms, with books stretching from floor to ceiling, and these ceilings must have been at least 50 feet high!

We departed from Melk at midday and proceeded with our journey along the Danube to Spitz, Austria, known for the Wachau Valley and its delicious Gruner Veltliner wines. Before indulging in wine tasting, we had another hike ahead, this time to the Durnstein Fortress to explore yet another ancient castle. This castle holds particular significance as it was where Richard the Lionhearted was imprisoned for several months. While it might not seem important now, it certainly provides tour guides with interesting stories to share.

Cruising doesn't only occur at night; during the day, you can admire old castles, power plants, bridges, and the countryside. I find daytime river cruising particularly enjoyable as it allows me to truly relax. I can sit on the balcony to unwind, edit photos, read a book, take in the sights along the shore, and listen to the calming and peaceful bird songs.