Sunshine on the Danube

Today was an amazing ride as we had a full day of sun and rode most of the day alongside the beautiful blue ( somewhat green Danube. We traveled the Donauradweg, the most famous bike path in Europe. This path originates in Germany's Black Forest and continues for about 750 miles ending in Budapest. of course we cut it short, 39 miles, traveling from Durenstein to Melk where an amazing Benedictine monastery is located.  The landscape was full of apricot orchards, vineyards, apple orchards, pretty villages and churches perched high on the hillside with an occasional castle thrown in for fortification. the path was most flat and lightly traveled which made for a peaceful tranquil ride,   Which allowed us to savor the sights. 

Melk was delightful. We climbed up a narrow path to the abbey and the museum was well done, sharing the Benedictine rules of work, pray and read. Not a bad philosophy. After walking the museum for a bit we enjoyed a lunch of bratwurst and very yummy sauerkraut. 

then back on the bikes for our ride back to Durenstein. At one point we took a ferry across the Danube which was relatively small and carried many bikers, a few cars and a tractor with a load of freshly picked grapes. Some doorways had small cartons of grapes for sale, 1-2€.. On the honor system, they were very sweet. 

Riding back on the other side of the Danube allowed us to ride through many vineyards where the grapes were being hand picked. 

At 6:00 we walked a winery where we met a wine expert who treated us to a tasting of four various famous regional wines.

Then on to Lanhouse Bacher, an acclaimed family run restaurant, one of the best in Wachau Valley for our farewell dinner. 

Does it sound like we eat a lot.... Sure feels that way.

The Beautiful Blue Danube

Our good friends Bill and Sally at the Melk Abbey. The four of us were more into a casual relaxing ride so we always picked up the rear. Our goal was to finish last every day which we accomplished. On this last day of riding, fresh fruit, wine spritzer a and apricot schnapps awaited us!

The terraced wine vineyards covered the rolling hills. If you look closely, you can spot the Danube!