Dunkelsteinerwald Course
The Dunkelsteinerwald owes its name to the 625 metre high Dunkelstein in the south of the hill range. Its rock is composed of a dark grey amphibolite. The forest itself is not so dark and gloomy, but a cheerful mixed forest of spruce, beech and ash, not to be compared with the dark forest in “The Lord of the Rings”. Fortunately, I didn’t encounter any giant spiders or wargs in the forest.
The forest area is broken up by light green meadows that stretch across the hillsides. There are castles and ruins in the woods. Some are reminiscent of “Dol Guldur”, but none of them harbour a dark spirit that shrouds the land in shadow. Those looking for peace, nature and seclusion will find what they are looking for on this tour.
Maria Langegg – Aggsbach Dorf
Starting from the Maria Langegg pilgrimage church, I follow the Way of St James to the Aggstein ruins, where evil robber barons once kept watch over the Danube.
Aggsbach Dorf – Gerolding
From the Aggsbach monastery, I climb up a strenuous Way of the Cross and reach the plateau of the Dunkelsteinerwald forest. A glorious day ☀️
Gerolding – Melk
My route takes me from the plateau to the Danube 🧜♂️🧜♀️ and then to Melk, the gateway to the Wachau. It gets adventurous, numerous stream crossings await.