This is the last stage of the World Heritage Trail and, at under 4 kilometres, by far the shortest. It can also be easily combined with the penultimate or first stage. Otherwise, it is more of a nice, leisurely stroll through the city than a hike over hill and dale. It offers almost no nature, just urban space.
This time I start in the morning because I want to add the first stage and a small bonus. Once again, the weather forecast promises a beautiful day after it had rained the days before, with the first clouds expected to gather in the afternoon.
Roman Mautern#
I set off from the town hall in Mautern. Mautern is a historically important settlement. The Romans built a fort here as a defence structure for the northern border of their empire, the limes. There is an archaeological site next to Mautern Castle. After the castle, I immediately cross the bridge to Stein.
From the bridge, there is a wonderful view across the Danube to Stein and Krems. The two church towers of the Frauenbergkirche and the Stein parish church, which you can also see up close a little later, create a particularly symbiotic picture. It reminds me of Assassins Creed in Italy. The path leads past them, but I’m not there yet. First I have to turn right after the bridge and then I go through the Linzer Tor gate and enter Stein’s old town.
Magnificient, medieval Stein#
The cobblestones and narrow alleyway take me back to the Middle Ages, when both Stein and Krems were of great importance for Danube shipping. The ships docked here after the long journey through the narrow Wachau Valley. They transported salt from the Salzkammergut region downstream to the south. However, this trade route has long since lost its importance. Today, however, the two towns offer good food and drink. Wine taverns line the historic pavements.
A short climb takes me to the Frauenbergkirche before I walk back along the old town street after a few steps. After a short walk, medieval Stein ends at the Kremser Tor gate. A pretty little town.
Finally Krems#
Now it’s off to Krems. The development of the intermediate area is modern in nature. It was not until the 19th century that large-scale construction took place here. The small towns could no longer cope with the population growth and huge factories were established in the surrounding area. A large tobacco factory (now a university and museum), a large prison (still a high-security prison) and an army camp (now a school) were built here. A modern museum building was also erected recently.
So there is a lot to see if you take the time. Sometimes a dangerous criminal escapes from the prison. This was the case a few days ago. So I have to be on my guard.
I walk towards the Steiner Tor gate and thus the entrance to Krems’ old town centre. This one is busier than the one in Stein, as there are still quite a few shops here. A small, pretty shopping street. There are several ways up to the destination, the Gozzoburg.
The old town is larger than the one in Stein and invites you to explore. But I reach my destination quickly and take a break. I’ve done it. But it wasn’t really that long. I’m a little annoyed that I didn’t take my road shoes, because my shoes didn’t see mud or sand on this stage.