Melk Benedictine Abbey, Austria

This was our first port of call on our recent Danube cruise with Avalon, and it was even more beautiful than I expected. We were up with the lark as we had to be on the coach by 8am but it was well worth it. The weather was freezing cold – frost on the top of the boat, but the sun was shining and the sky was the bluest blue you ever saw.

We had a local guide to take us around the abbey but her English was perfect. Also her wealth of knowledge was amazing. She talked almost non-stop for two hours! Afterwards we were free to walk around the main chapel and the grounds for a while – the views over the river were stunning.

Around 10.30am we were taken back to the boat by coach and then we sailed through the Wachau Valley towards our next stop, Durnstein.

The scenery was breathtaking – castles, monasteries, vineyards all lining our route, and Karolien, the Cruise Director, kept us well informed on everything we passed along the way.
I have so many photos, far too many to put on here, so look out for them here. Next post will be Durnstein!