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October 21, 2025

In the heart of Lower Austria, overlooking the majestic waters of the Danube, lies Melk a small gem set in the Wachau Valley, one of Europe’s most captivating and picturesque regions.

The excursions offered by Riverside are a precious opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s thousand-year-old history, Baroque art, and authentic traditions. From the medieval walls of Artstetten Castle, guardian of one of the most influential dynasties of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, to the magnificence of Melk Abbey, the ultimate symbol of European Baroque, each visit is a journey through time and the senses — blending spirituality, architecture, and local flavors that express the pure essence of Austria.

Artstetten Castle rises amid gentle hills, surrounded by lush forests and valleys that seem suspended in time. Its origins date back to the 13th century, when it was built as a medieval fortress, later transformed over the centuries into a splendid noble residence. Its story intertwines with that of the Habsburg Empire: in 1823 Emperor Francis I, Napoleon’s father-in-law, purchased it as one of fourteen estates he owned within a twenty-kilometer radius. Yet it was Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the emperor’s nephew, who gave the castle its special significance. Far from the rigid formalities of the Viennese court, he found in Artstetten a private refuge with his beloved wife, Sophie, living a peaceful and intimate family life. After the tragedy of Sarajevo in 1914 — which claimed their lives and marked the beginning of World War I — the castle became a place of remembrance, a symbol of continuity and devotion. Today, a direct descendant of the Archduke still lives within these walls, caring for the estate’s agricultural and forested lands while preserving its historical and cultural heritage.

A guided tour of the castle reveals a rich and surprising experience. Alongside the family’s remarkable story, visitors discover how Artstetten was ahead of its time, equipped with extraordinary modern conveniences such as an indoor bathroom, elevator, and even a swimming pool — details that beautifully reflect the transition from medieval austerity to modern comfort. The visit culminates in the museum dedicated to Franz Ferdinand, where documents, portraits, and personal artifacts bring to life the fate of a man whose death forever changed the course of European history.

After breathing in the serene atmosphere of Artstetten, the journey continues to Melk, home to one of Austria’s most magnificent wonders: the splendid Melk Abbey. Founded in 1089 by Benedictine monks, it stands high on a promontory overlooking the Danube, offering breathtaking views across the river and the surrounding vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see. Even today, the monks live and work within the abbey, cultivating the land and running what is now Austria’s oldest school — a testament to a spiritual and educational tradition that has endured unbroken for nearly a millennium.

Entering Melk Abbey means stepping into a triumph of art and light. The library, with its grand hall housing over sixteen thousand volumes and a stunning frescoed ceiling, embodies centuries of European learning and culture. The iconic spiral staircase connecting the upper and lower floors — graceful and golden — is one of the most photographed sights in the Wachau. Then comes the abbey church: opulent, radiant, and filled with harmony, where marble, gold, and music merge into a sensory and almost mystical experience that leaves visitors speechless.

Riverside offers several ways to make this visit even more special. Those who love the festive spirit of the holidays can combine art and tradition with a visit to Melk’s charming Christmas market, where the air is filled with the scent of cinnamon and freshly baked treats. Here, guests can take part in a gingerbread-making workshop, learning to shape and decorate Austria’s most beloved holiday delicacy — a heartwarming and delightful activity that captures the true taste of an Austrian winter.

Wine enthusiasts can instead indulge in a tasting of the Wachau Valley’s renowned white wines at a cozy wine bar in the old town. Guided by local experts, guests savor four distinctive varietals — including Riesling and Grüner Veltliner — while discovering the Benedictine monks’ centuries-old winemaking traditions, where wine is both a craft and a spiritual expression of the land.

For a more intimate and relaxing experience, there’s the coffee and pastry excursion. After the abbey visit, participants head to a local artisan roastery, where master roasters reveal the delicate process of transforming raw beans into aromatic perfection. The experience concludes in a traditional Viennese café, where guests enjoy a typical Austrian pastry paired with freshly brewed coffee — a celebration of elegance, taste, and the art of slowing down.

For those seeking a moment of pure emotion, the organ concert at Melk Abbey offers an unforgettable experience. In the golden twilight of the abbey church, the sound of the organ fills the space like an embrace, transforming the visit into an encounter with beauty itself. Time seems to stand still as music and light merge in perfect harmony.

Each excursion in and around Melk is a journey into the soul of Austria — a delicate balance of art, history, and tradition that connects past and present. Riverside accompanies its guests on this discovery with care and passion, offering experiences that are not mere visits, but true encounters with the culture and life of an extraordinary land. From the solemn silence of Artstetten Castle to the scents of wine and gingerbread filling the air of Melk, the Danube becomes a golden thread weaving together emotions, memories, and dreams, leaving every traveler with a lasting impression long after the journey ends.

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Giorgia Lombardo

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