Day trip destination

Hiking trails & long-distance hiking trail Kremstal

Senftenberg, nestled in the picturesque Kremstal valley in Lower Austria, is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The region is characterized by its rolling hills, steep vineyards, dense forests and an impressive cultural landscape. Whether you prefer a leisurely hike through the vineyards or a more challenging tour through the forests and hills, Senftenberg and its surroundings offer a variety of hiking trails for every fitness level.

Hiking in Senftenberg - discover nature and culture

Senftenberg itself is known for its wine culture and the ruins of Senftenberg Castle, which towers high above the town. The ruins are a popular destination for hikers and offer fantastic views of the Krems Valley and the surrounding vineyards. The hiking trails around Senftenberg lead through a varied landscape that offers both natural beauty and cultural highlights.

Popular hiking trails in Senftenberg

1. circular hiking trail to the Senftenberg castle ruins

One of the most popular hikes in the region is the circular trail to the Senftenberg castle ruins. The tour starts in the center of Senftenberg and leads up to the castle ruins on a well-signposted path. The path runs through vineyards and forests before reaching the ruins, from where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Krems Valley and the Danube.

• Duration: approx. 1-2 hours
• Difficulty level: Easy to moderately difficult
• Highlights: View of the vineyards, Senftenberg castle ruins, view of the Kremstal valley

2. hike to the Gaisberg

For more experienced hikers, there is a tour to the Gaisberg, one of the highest hills in the region. The ascent takes you through forests and fields and offers repeated views of the surrounding area. Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with a magnificent view over the Krems Valley and the Wachau.

• Duration: approx. 3-4 hours
• Difficulty level: Moderately difficult
• Highlights: Sweeping views of the Kremstal, untouched nature, forest and meadow landscapes

3. wine hike through the vineyards

The wine trail through the vineyards in Senftenberg offers a more leisurely hike. Here you walk along the steep wine terraces where the famous Riesling and Grüner Veltliner vines thrive. There are numerous information boards along the way that provide information about viticulture and the region. A break at a wine tavern rounds off the experience.

• Duration: approx. 2-3 hours
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Highlights: Vineyards, information boards on winegrowing, refreshment stops at local winegrowers

THE LONG-DISTANCE HIKING TRAIL “WEIN.GENUSS.WANDERN”

The “Wein.Genuss.Wandern” long-distance hiking trail is a special highlight for hikers in the Wachau region. It combines hiking through one of Austria's most beautiful wine regions with culinary delights. This long-distance hiking trail is around 180 kilometers long and leads through picturesque wine villages, past historical sites and offers numerous opportunities to sample the regional cuisine and excellent wines.

The long-distance hiking trail is divided into several stages, which can easily be completed in one-day stages. It stretches from **Krems** via the **Kremstal**, the **Wachau** to **Melk** and beyond. Each stage offers a perfect combination of nature, culture and enjoyment.

Stage 1 Krems - Senftenberg

One of the most beautiful stages of the long-distance hiking trail leads from Krems to Senftenberg. On this hike, you cross the heart of the Krems Valley, enjoy the view of the steep wine terraces and the Danube and finally reach idyllic Senftenberg. Along the way, you can stop off at winegrowers and sample the regional wines.

• Duration: approx. 4-5 hours
• Difficulty level: Moderately difficult
• Highlights: Wine terraces, Senftenberg castle ruins, refreshments from winegrowers

Stage 2 Senftenberg - Weißenkirchen

The next stage leads from Senftenberg to Weißenkirchen, one of the most famous wine villages in the Wachau. The hike runs through picturesque wine villages and offers breathtaking views of the Danube and the surrounding vineyards. Once you arrive in Weißenkirchen, the village invites you to linger and there are numerous opportunities to enjoy the local wines and food.

• Duration: approx. 5-6 hours
• Difficulty level: Moderate
• Highlights: Views of the Danube, historic wine villages, wine tastings in Weißenkirchen

Tips for the long-distance hiking trail

• Best time to visit: The best time to hike the long-distance hiking trail is in spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the vineyards are in full bloom.
• Equipment: Good footwear and weatherproof clothing are essential. For the longer stages, it is advisable to carry enough water and snacks.
• Refreshment stops: Along the way, there are numerous places to stop for refreshments at winegrowers and inns, where you can fortify yourself with regional delicacies.

Conclusion

Hiking in Senftenberg and the surrounding area offers a perfect combination of nature, culture and culinary delights. Whether on the shorter circular hiking trails around the Senftenberg castle ruins or on the long-distance hiking trail “Wein.Genuss.Wandern”, hikers can expect a breathtaking landscape peppered with historical highlights and delicious wines. Senftenberg is therefore an ideal starting point for hikers who want to experience the Wachau and Kremstal region in all its diversity.

ℹ️ Further information: www.weingenusswandern.at