Weitwanderweg Nibelungengau 5: Leiben - Emmersdorf (Zubringer vom/zum Welterbesteig Wachau)

The stage starts at Europaschloss Leiben. The castle, about 800 years old, towers on a mighty, steep rock and impressively marks the transition from the south of the rugged Waldviertel to the picturesque Danube valley. It goes slightly uphill through Weinzierl over the "Henzing" and continues along the road down to Urfahr, where the federal road is crossed. In Urfahr, the route then follows the Danube cycle path towards the Melk Danube power station. Here the long-distance hiking trail Nibelungengau and the Wachau World Heritage Trail meet. It continues past Luberegg Castle to Rantenberg. From here the stage leads downhill to Emmersdorf.

The Melk Danube power station connects the north and south banks of the Danube and you can enjoy a direct view of Melk Abbey. It is also possible to cross the Danube towards Melk following the Wachau World Heritage Trail.

Hiking boots, backpack, hiking map and/or mobile route planner, weatherproof clothing (e.g. rain protection), headgear, sun protection, first aid kit, possible flashlight, sufficient provisions (water, snacks)

A comprehensive equipment list can be found here.

Please note the following tips and information to make your hiking holiday a great experience:
·         Stay on the marked trails.
·         Wear mountain/hiking boots.
·         Use hiking poles.
·         Rainwear is always advisable.
·         Take the hiking map with you.
·         Carry enough drinking water.
·         Please do not leave your rubbish on the trail.
·         Respect the sensitive habitats of plants and animals.

We would like to point out that mountain biking and horseback riding are generally prohibited on the long-distance hiking trail Nibelungengau in the forest and on private forest roads. Using the suggested routes is at your own risk and responsibility.

Leiben is accessible via the A1 West motorway, Pöchlarn exit. Take the 1st exit at the roundabout at the exit, after about 1 km turn left towards the Danube bridge. Cross the bridge, then keep right on Wachauerstraße (B3) to Ebersdorf. Turn left in the village to Leiben.

Coming from Krems or Grein via Wachauerstraße (B3) to Ebersdorf and turn off in the village to Leiben.

Travel by ÖBB to Melk train station - timetable query. From the station you can reach Leiben by postbus - timetable information.

We recommend traveling by car as public transport does not cover a seamless connection.

Parking is possible at Europaschloss Leiben or in the town of Emmersdorf.

For easy and convenient planning of routes, the Wachau-Nibelungengau-Kremstal app is recommended. Simply download for Android or iPhone.

Excursion tips along the route:
Europaschloss Leiben, Wachau Donkey Adventure, Melk Abbey

Dining options along the route:
Leiben, Emmersdorf or Melk

More sights in Nibelungengau:
Visitor power station Ybbs-Persenbeug, Peace Museum Erlauf, Oskar Kokoschka Centre Pöchlarn, Artstetten Castle, Basilica Maria Taferl

Event tips:
Numerous sporting activities take place in and around Leiben, such as the Dirtrun woidwetza. All events and happenings of the Nibelungengau region and surroundings can be found here.

All available advertising materialsfor Nibelungengau can be found here or browse the Nibelungengau travel guide online.

Enjoy the wonderful views of the Danube valley at Leiben and the atmosphere directly on the Danube. From the Melk Danube power station you also have a direct view of Melk Abbey. In Emmersdorf or Melk you have the opportunity to take a boat trip to the Wachau.

The long-distance hiking trail Nibelungengau is signposted and walkable in both directions.

Event highlight in Nibelungengau:
Combine your hiking holiday with the summer solstice celebration "Fire Magic in Nibelungengau" in June.  Celebrate on the Danube bank in one of the Nibelungengau communities or on board a ship.