Cycling day trip from Melk to Traismauer

Roll out from Melk under the golden towers of Stift Melk and cruise east along the Danube Cycle Path through the Wachau. It’s a relaxed, mostly flat ride with gentle ups and downs (around 300 m total) and a max elevation just over 260 m. Expect mostly smooth asphalt with some farm tracks and paths mixed in—touring tires are perfect.

You’ll pass terraced vineyards and apricot orchards, with castle ruins dotting the hills. Keep an eye out for Spitz and the blue church tower of Dürnstein (where Richard the Lionheart was once held)—both classic photo stops. Glide past Krems and then follow the river plains toward Traismauer.

Finish in Traismauer, where the Traisen meets the Danube. The town has Roman roots (the ancient camp of Augustianis) and sits at the edge of the Traisental wine region—ideal for a glass of Grüner Veltliner. All in all: easygoing riverside scenery, big history, and plenty of café breaks.