Nov
16
Written by:
chris
11/16/2008
River Cruising on the Danube
Avalon Waterways, part of the Globus Family of Brands, are a world leader in river cruising. I travelled aboard the Avalon Tranquility on Europe’s longest river, the stately Danube, from Budapest in Hungary to Bratislava in Slovakia, to Vienna in Austria and on to Melk in the Wachau Valley. The Avalon Tranquility was – true to its name – a relaxing and well-appointed base from which to explore some of the unique sights of Central Europe.
Budapest, Hungary
Two thousand years of history underpin a vibrant, modern European capital in this romantic city of the Danube. Pest, on the flat east side of the river, covers the modern heart of the city, including Heroes’ Square which commemorates Hungary’s millennium. Buda, on the hilly west side, contains the scenic Castle District with its glorious view of the Parliament Building, as well as good shopping for local crafts.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Capital of Slovakia (which as created in 1993 from the old Czechoslovakia), Bratislava has a very walkable medieval city core with picturesque, narrow and winding streets and arches overlooked by an imposing castle. The Novy most bridge over the Danube boasts a restaurant high above the river.
Vienna, Austria
Arriving in this great old imperial city of the Hapsburg Empire by river is a fitting way of entering a rich historical tapestry of one of the world’s great cities and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Grand boulevards lead to grander sights, such as St Stephen’s Cathedral. Shopping is wonderful and the best chocolate cake in the world is the Sachertorte at Café Sacher – so, naturally, I couldn’t resist this treat!
Melk, Vienna
Nearly 90km upriver from Vienna lies the small riverside town of Melk, full of 16th and 17th century buildings. But its crowning glory, and part of another UNESCO World Heritage site, is its Benedictine Abbey. Sitting on a bluff overlooking the town below, this 18th century Baroque masterpiece is divine…from its courtyards and galleries to its towers and Abbey Church.
The River Danube
The Danube is Europe’s mightiest river. Over its 2,860 km, it flows through ten countries from the Black Forest in Germany to the Black Sea in Romania. It also provides a perfect way for travelers to experience the heart of Europe. From early morning mists to glorious sunsets, I enjoyed watching the scenery glide slowly by. My favourite section: the Wachau Valley in Austria. And my thanks to Avalon Waterways and their hospitable team for introducing me to the wonderful world of river cruising.