Weltenburg Abbey | Bavaria, Germany

Stroll along the cliffside banks of the Danube river

Cross the waters on a traditional Bavarian boat

End the day drinking one of the world's most historic beers

In a glorious monastic setting (their food is pretty great too!)

Medium difficulty
6.5k distance
150m elevation
Sturdy shoes
Full Day length
Car transport

❀️ Why We Love This Trip

🍺 Beer πŸŒ… Day Trips 🍽️ Food & Drink πŸ₯Ύ Hiking πŸ“œ History β›ͺ Monasteries 🌲 Nature πŸ—» Viewpoints πŸš— Driving πŸ’Ž Hidden Gems
Weltenburg Abbey offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and culinary excellence that makes it an unmissable destination. As Bavaria's oldest monastery and home to the world's oldest monastic brewery, it provides a unique experience combining spiritual heritage with world-class brewing tradition. The journey itself is part of the magic - instead of taking a tour bus, visitors can enjoy a 90-minute scenic hike through the stunning Danube Gorge, where the mighty river carved its way through dramatic limestone cliffs. The trail offers a perfect mix of pebbly beaches, grassy meadows, and towering rock faces, making it accessible yet rewarding for hikers of all skill levels. At the abbey, the renowned Asam Bock beer provides a rich, complex flavor profile that sets it apart from typical Bavarian brews. The beer garden in the central courtyard serves excellent traditional Bavarian cuisine, and the Asam cake, made with their signature cloister liqueur, offers a perfect finish to your meal. What makes this destination truly special is its broad appeal - whether you're a history buff, beer enthusiast, nature lover, or foodie, there's something here for everyone. The option to take a scenic boat ride adds flexibility for those with different mobility needs, and the baroque church, gift shop, and unique souvenirs like the zero-euro notes make it a comprehensive cultural experience.

Your Day Trip Timeline

1

Park at the convenient waterside lot in Kelheim

Budget around 6 euros for a full day parking pass and display it on your dashboard

2

Pass by the river cruise station

Consider booking a return journey by boat if you don't want to hike back

3

Follow the paved path as it turns to gravel

The trail follows the Danube River into the gorge

4

Spend some time at the pebble beaches

Perfect spot for a break with great views of the cliffs and meadows

5

Look for the shortcut path near the dead-end beach

Saves backtracking, though steeper than the main trail

6

Climb about 150 meters of elevation

Takes roughly 20 minutes up the stairs

7

Stop at the viewpoints along the hilltop

The final viewpoint offers the best views of Weltenburg Abbey

8

Follow the paved road down to the river ferry

Turn left at the bottom and look for the boat landing

9

Take the small ferry across (€1.50)

Keep coins ready for the ferryman

10

Visit the baroque church and gift shop

Don't miss the zero euro souvenir notes

11

Enjoy the beer garden in the central courtyard

Try their signature Asam Bock dark lager

12

Order traditional Bavarian food

Save room for the Asam cake with cloister liqueur icing

13

Take the larger ferry back to Kelheim

Or retrace your steps for a round-trip hike

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