Leaving the big city behind today and travelling into the picturesque countryside of Austria. This morning we visit Durnstein and high on the hill you can see the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned. There are less than 1000 inhabitants in the charming little town.
Durnstein is home to one of the most famous landmarks, the blue spired Augustine Abbey Church. The winding river, colourful homes and slopes lined with vineyards is a wonderful sight. Lizzie, our charming and witty guide leads us through the narrow cobbled streets lined with beautiful shops. The windows are brightly decorated and the homes colourful. Even the cemetary is a beautiful sight in this charming town.
After a brief tour she takes us into a wonderful little establishement for a tasting of fabulous Austrian wines. A great way to start the day. They also make their own apricot snaps, liquours, chocolates and natural soaps and lotions. I think there were quite a few purchases here.
Back on the ship to enjoy a delicious lunch as our river boat cruises through the Wachau Valley. The countryside is beautiful, with apricot orchards and steep terraced vineyards on both sides of the river melting harmoniously into medieval villages. The Danube is only 200 metres wide here, providing a majestic backdrop to the beauty of the region. The Wachau has 1,390 hectares of vines, planted in soils of weathered primary rock, sand and loess. In addition to Riesling and Gruner Veltliner, other typically Austrian wine varieties grown here include Neuberger and Gelber Muskateller.
This afternoon we visit the the town of Melk., an important spritual and cultural centre in Austria for over 12000 years. First it was the residence of the Badenberg family, and since 1089 it has been a Benedictine monastery, founded by Leopold II. For over 900 years monks have continually lived and worked in Stift Melk following the rules laid down by St. Benedict. They are active in the parishes, the school (currently with 750 students), the economy, culture and tourism.
Since 1978, extensive restorations of the splendid Baroque buildings have been carried out and adapted to meet the needs of the school, the guests and cultural events. Stift Melk is one of the finest attractions in Austria and is one of Europe's great cultural heritage sites. The well know Collegiate church at the entry of the Wachau Valley with its 900 years of art history is one of the most important buildings of baroque style in Europe.
Our tour of the Abbey included the famous library that inspired Umberto Eco to write his book "The Name of the Rose". After our tour we took a leisurely stroll through the charming town back to our ship.
This evening we enjoyed another fabulous dinner prepared by the chef and his brilliant team.
We have another celebration in our group. Happy 31st anniversary Barb and Bob. Wishing you many more wonderful years together.
When it comes time to die, make sure all you got to do is die.
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