Danube Itinerary Day 5

We leave Linz and bike along the north bank of the Danube towards Mauthausen. This sleepy old market place founded in the 15th century, gained a sad sort of fame in recent history due to the fact that a barbarous concentration camp was located in its vicinity. Time permitting, we may ride the five kilometers into the hills to pay our respects at this most touching memorial.

As we approach the ancient town of Grein, the river banks close in on us because it is here that the Danube has to force its way through a narrows which was once dominated by dangerous rapids. For many centuries the river pilots of Grein helped sailors pass around these hazardous rocks thus bringing prosperity to this little town.

We leave our bikes in the town square and walk up to the castle Greinburg which not only provides us with a great view but which also dazzles us with its architecture and romantic courtyard.

After spending some time exploring this little town, we retrace our steps and cross the river to stay the night at a wonderful Inn in the little town of Ardagger.