Dürnstein

A small wine village on the Danube in the heart of the Wachau, Dürnstein is commanded by a ruined hilltop castle where Richard I of England was held captive in 1192–1193 following his return from the Third Crusade. The Baroque tower of the Augustinian Chorherrenstift monastery painted in cobalt blue against the vine terraces and river is one of the most reproduced images of the Wachau. The village is too narrow for most vehicles and best explored on foot along its single main lane.