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Austria
Upper Austria
Schärding

Engelhartszell an der Donau

Attractions and Places To See around Engelhartszell an der Donau - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Engelhartszell an der Donau include a blend of cultural, historical, and natural sites. This picturesque village is located on the north bank of the Danube River in Upper Austria, serving as a gateway to the Wachau Valley. The area offers a variety of landmarks, natural features, and river-related activities. Visitors can explore historical monasteries, art museums, and the scenic Danube landscape.

Best attractions and places to see around Engelhartszell an der Donau

  • The most popular attractions is Schlögen Loop, a river feature that is a major highlight on the Danube Cycle Path. This spectacular 180-degree river bend offers viewpoints with panoramic views.
  • Another must-see spot is Steinerberg Danube Loop 🏞️, a natural monument and river feature. The Danube bike trail EuroVelo 6 closely follows this horseshoe bend, offering a car-free cycling experience.
  • Visitors also love Jochenstein rock island with statue of Saint John of Nepomuk, a natural monument with a man-made monument. This small rock island on the German side of the border features an 18th-century chapel dedicated to the patron saint of seafarers.
  • Engelhartszell an der Donau is known for its historical sites, natural river landscapes, and cultural attractions. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient forts to interactive river experiences.
  • The attractions around Engelhartszell an der Donau are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1700 upvotes and over 690 photos.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Schlögen Loop

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Of course one of the highlights on the Danube Cycle Path. Definitely go up to the viewpoint. But be careful: the path is very steep and rocky (partly loose scree) and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Safe footing and sturdy shoes are therefore absolutely necessary. But the view is perfect!

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The Danube bike trail EuroVelo 6 hugs the river and closely follows around the horseshoe bend. An excellent car-free quiet bike trail. An overview of the tight turn can be seen from the viewpoints higher up on the valley sides, but the switchbacks the stream had cut into the rocks are quite obvious from the trail itself.

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The rock is located downstream from the Jochenstein power plant. In the 18th century a chapel was built there with the patron saint of the shipmen - St. John Nepomuk.

"The Jochenstein is a small rock island on German territory near the German-Austrian border. It is part of the pile, a range of quartz rocks in the Bavarian Forest that runs along the Danube edge through Lower Bavaria."
Source: de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jochenstein (May 18, 2019)

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The way over the lock takes you from Germany to Austria.
But be careful: you have to climb a stairwell with 40 steps on each side. A simple pushing aid for bicycles was installed next to the stairs. It's good if you're not traveling alone, otherwise it can get pretty exhausting.
Opening times: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. all year round

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Those who are not satisfied with the beautiful view of the other shore can take the bike ferry to Engelhartszell. There is, for example, the beautiful Engelszell Abbey with the sensory garden to visit.
engelhartszell.at/Radfaehre

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Popular around Engelhartszell an der Donau

Danube Trail – Legendary long-distance hiking along the Danube River

Simply amazing – 13 hikes along the Donausteig

Cycling around Engelhartszell an der Donau

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Road Cycling Routes around Engelhartszell an der Donau

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Running Trails around Engelhartszell an der Donau

Mountain Hikes around Engelhartszell an der Donau

Gravel biking around Engelhartszell an der Donau

Other adventures around Engelhartszell an der Donau

Danube Trail – Legendary long-distance hiking along the Danube River

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Tamara (unterwegs)

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Tanja 🌞
October 12, 2025, Jochenstein Lock and Hydroelectric Power Plant

Caution cyclists! There are 90 steps to climb. Not feasible for everyone with the heavy e-bikes.

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Just ring the bell and the ferry will set off.

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Great tips and information to make you want to visit this place. Thank you for that!

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The Jochenstein is a rock in the Danube.

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There is a stone in the Danube

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The bike ferry between Engelhartszell and Kramesau is a special section of the Danube Cycle Path and offers cyclists a relaxing way to cross the Danube. The crossing is easily organized: ring the bell at the pier, and the ferryman arrives promptly. During the short ride, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Danube landscape – a quiet moment of relaxation. The "Überfuhrhaus" (Transfer House) right next to the ferry invites you to take a break – with drinks, coffee, small snacks, and homemade cakes. A worthwhile stop on any bike tour through the Danube Valley – uncomplicated, charming, and scenic.

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The Schlögener Loop is a river loop in the upper Danube valley in Upper Austria, about halfway between Passau and Linz (between river kilometers 2186.5 and 2180.5 of the Danube flowing east) and the largest forced meander in Europe. The southern, right bank lies in the municipality of Haibach ob der Donau and its district of Schlögen, after which the loop is named. To the north, the municipalities of Hofkirchen im Mühlkreis with the village of Au and to the far east Niederkappel with the village of Grafenau border the area of the Danube Loop. Source: Wikipedia

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The Schlögener Schlinge is a river meander in the upper Danube valley in Upper Austria, about halfway between Passau and Linz (between river kilometers 2186.5 and 2180.5 of the east-flowing Danube) and the largest forced meander in Europe. The southern, right bank is in the municipality of Haibach ob der Donau and its district Schlögen, after which the loop is named. In the north, the municipalities of Hofkirchen im Mühlkreis with the village of Au and in the far east Niederkappel with the village of Grafenau border in the area of the Danube loop. Source: Wikipedia

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main natural attractions to explore around Engelhartszell an der Donau?

The region is rich in natural beauty, primarily centered around the Danube River. A must-see is the Schlögen Loop, a spectacular 180-degree river bend offering panoramic views. You can also visit the Jochenstein rock island with statue of Saint John of Nepomuk, a unique natural monument on the Danube. The Steinerberg Danube Loop 🏞️ also provides excellent car-free cycling opportunities along the river.

Are there any historical or cultural sites worth visiting in Engelhartszell an der Donau?

Absolutely. Engelhartszell is home to Engelszell Abbey, Austria's only Trappist monastery, featuring a magnificent Baroque church. Within the abbey grounds, you can also explore the Collegiate Church Engelszell, known for its pure Rococo architecture. Other historical sites include the Blacksmith Museum (Hammerschmiede) and the nearby Roman fort, Römerburgus Oberranna.

What family-friendly activities are available in Engelhartszell an der Donau?

Families will enjoy the Mini-Danube Water Experience (Wassererlebnis Mini-Donau) near Engelszell Abbey. This interactive open-air area recreates the Danube in miniature, featuring an aquarium with Danube fish and areas for children to play with water. The Jochenstein Lock and Hydropower Plant is also family-friendly, offering insights into technology and nature at the 'Haus am Strom' exhibit.

What kind of outdoor activities and trails can I find near Engelhartszell an der Donau?

The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy road cycling, gravel biking, and mountain biking. Popular routes include the Danube Cycle Path, which closely follows the river, and various Donausteig circular walks offering scenic views. For more detailed routes, you can explore guides like Road Cycling Routes around Engelhartszell an der Donau, Gravel biking around Engelhartszell an der Donau, and MTB Trails around Engelhartszell an der Donau.

Are there any easy walking paths or circular routes suitable for all abilities?

Yes, the Danube Cycle Path offers an excellent car-free and quiet experience, suitable for easy walks and cycling. Additionally, several Donausteig circular walks start in Engelhartszell, providing varied options for different fitness levels. Many sections along the Danube are relatively flat and accessible.

How can I get around to the attractions in Engelhartszell an der Donau?

The village of Engelhartszell itself is easily walkable. Cycling is a very popular way to explore the surrounding area, especially along the Danube Cycle Path. You can also use the Engelhartszell Bike and Pedestrian Ferry to cross the Danube and access attractions on the opposite bank.

What is the best time of year to visit Engelhartszell an der Donau?

The warmer months, from spring to early autumn (roughly April to October), are generally ideal for visiting Engelhartszell an der Donau. During this period, the weather is pleasant for cycling, hiking, and enjoying the river activities. The natural landscapes are vibrant, and most attractions are fully operational.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Engelhartszell an der Donau?

Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views of the Danube, especially from viewpoints overlooking the Schlögen Loop. The car-free cycling experience along the Danube Cycle Path is also highly rated. Many enjoy the blend of natural beauty with historical sites like Engelszell Abbey, and the unique experience of crossing the border via the Jochenstein Lock.

Are there any art or exhibition spaces in Engelhartszell an der Donau?

Yes, the Schütz Art Museum is a notable cultural highlight, showcasing Austrian art from the 19th century through to the avant-garde, including works by famous artists. Additionally, the market town office hosts the 'Danube Stories' (Ausstellung Donau-Geschichten) exhibition, providing historical insights into the Danube region.

Can I find places to relax and enjoy nature in Engelhartszell an der Donau?

The Engelszell Sensory Garden (Sinnesgarten), located next to the monastery church, offers a tranquil space to taste herbs and connect with nature. The entire Danube riverside area provides numerous spots for relaxation, with picturesque views and opportunities to simply enjoy the peaceful environment.

What is the Jochenstein Power Station and can I visit it?

The Jochenstein Power Station (Donaukraftwerk Jochenstein) is a significant landmark that connects Austria with Bavaria and serves as a border crossing for pedestrians and cyclists. You can visit the 'Haus am Strom' exhibit at the power station, which functions as a museum for nature and technology, offering insights into the Danube and its ecosystem.

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