Au on the Danube: Cycling, Landscapes and Culture

Au on the Danube is a good choice for a stay that combines cycling, riverside scenery and culture. The village lies directly on the Danube Cycle Path and also has an observation tower, regional cultural offerings and natural access to the Danube. As you plan your trip, consider whether you mainly want to explore by bike, take in the scenery or combine time by the water with a cultural event. If you are looking for a hotel in Au on the Danube, deciding what matters most can help you choose a destination that suits your trip.

Views of the Danube and surrounding landscape

In fine weather, the 13-metre-high observation tower in Au on the Danube offers magnificent views of the Lower Austrian Alps, the Mühlviertel and the Danube. The panorama takes in a variety of landscapes as well as the river. If the view is an important part of your stay, factor the weather into your plans: the view is described as being available in fine weather.

Culture connected to the Danube

In summer, the garden of the donAU-Standl regularly becomes a regional cultural venue on Sundays. The season and day of the week give this offering a specific schedule. If you would like to include an event there in your plans, check the dates in advance of your trip. Another connection to river navigation can be found at the Schiffer- und Flößerkapelle (Boatmen’s and Raftsmen’s Chapel) in Au on the Danube: it is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of boatmen. This dedication makes its connection to life on the water clear.

The Roman rest stop in Au/Naarn also combines a break with information. It invites cyclists to recharge and offers insights into Roman heritage, the Danube Cycle Path and the local municipality. A stop here lets you explore not only the cycling route but also local history and the municipality. The walk-through fish “Doni” is another attraction for visitors and cyclists on the Danube Cycle Path. Its walk-through design sets it apart from the information offerings at the Roman rest stop and makes it a separate point of interest along the cycle tourism route.

Know the difference between cycling and hiking routes

Au on the Danube lies directly on the Danube Cycle Path. The Aist-Naarntal Cycle Route R30 ends at the Danube Cycle Path in Obersebern, in the municipality of Naarn, also known as Au on the Danube. If you are planning a cycling route, this endpoint is the specific connection between the R30 and the Danube Cycle Path. The Aulehrpfad nature trail is another option, with starting points in Naarn and Au/Donau. To find your way, you can therefore take the endpoint in Obersebern into account when planning a cycling route, and the designated starting point when exploring the Aulehrpfad.

Time by the water

The Danube beach in Au on the Danube offers natural access to the river for sunbathing, cooling off and taking a break. This adds an opportunity to spend time by the river to the themes of cycling and culture. Check river conditions and safety locally. Depending on whether you want to focus on activity, scenery, a cultural event or a break by the water, you can plan your stay around different priorities.

For the broader travel overview: Naarn im Machlande.