Krems and the Wachau Valley
There are many things in this world that I have been fortunate enough to experience that have filled me with awe. But, not, in truth, have yet taken my breath away.
Today, in Krems – a picturesque countryside town in Austria - was one of those moments I’d wished that time would stand still.
As a Viking guest, the included shore excursion was an exclusive tour of Göttweig Abbey. A monastery founded a thousand years ago. ONE THOUSAND. When you think about the history and all the time that passes in those many centuries, it’s quite surreal.
The bus ride to the Abbey was as pretty as it can get. Plush green vineyards, age-old homes and churches dotted the countryside of the Wachau valley as we snaked our way up to the Abbey.
Today, in Krems – a picturesque countryside town in Austria - was one of those moments I’d wished that time would stand still.
As a Viking guest, the included shore excursion was an exclusive tour of Göttweig Abbey. A monastery founded a thousand years ago. ONE THOUSAND. When you think about the history and all the time that passes in those many centuries, it’s quite surreal.
The bus ride to the Abbey was as pretty as it can get. Plush green vineyards, age-old homes and churches dotted the countryside of the Wachau valley as we snaked our way up to the Abbey.
Göttweig Abbey
Göttweig Abbey is famous for its wine, especially its specialty apricot-based creations. I love apricots and the welcome drink was delicious and sweet. After watching an interesting segment on the history, it was time to go exploring.
Entering the grounds of the cloister and church was ethereal. A sense of peace and serenity descended. I was mindful that although this is open to the public, this place was the home for men of faith, to serve and study in the Benedictine tradition.
Lost in the peaceful surrounding, nothing and I mean NOTHING could have prepared me for what was waiting inside the abbey.
Lost in the peaceful surrounding, nothing and I mean NOTHING could have prepared me for what was waiting inside the abbey.
Entering the building, an imposing staircases - one of the largest baroque staircases in the world - greeted me. Slowly I ascended, carefully soaking in the atmosphere.
And then I looked up.
And then I looked up.
The ceiling was a magnificent artwork, intricately and expertly painted to reflect the heavens and the earth. The colours, dazzling. The skill to create this masterpiece was astonishing. All I could do was walk around in small circles, my eyes raised, my neck craned trying to imprint this onto my core memory.
Graceful windows let in streaming beams of delicious light, reflecting off the white marble and creating a scene of brilliance. I almost expected heavenly strings to start filling the space.
Tearing myself away – I tried to linger as long as possible – the next stop was the church. Filled with art and beauty, I yearned to sit, quietly and reflect.
The most beautiful stretch of the Danube
Alas, it was time to head back on board and start the passage down, what was promised by Program Director Anthony as one of the most beautiful stretches of the Danube, through the Wachau Valley.
Castles and quaint villages adorned either side of the river. This was the closest I’ve ever felt to being in a fairytale. The lovely crew passed around glassed of crisp spritzers, honestly it was a perfect day.
That evening, to tie into all that Austria had to offer, the lovely food and beverage team gave an apple strudel demonstration – and we sampled the sweet pastry.
Dancing and laughing rounded off my favourite day so far on my Viking journey and, as I dozed off, I really couldn’t wait to see what else this spectacular cruise had in store for me.
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