Erlauf 1 - Flusslehrpfad Runde

The Blue River Nature Trail is a slightly hilly loop. It leads across the church square, past the sports field, and along the Auweg, following the river trail next to the Erlauf. The shrubs and trees in the riparian forest are identified on clay signs. The trail returns to the starting point via Schulstraße.

We recommend hiking boots, a backpack, a hiking map and/or a mobile route planner, weatherproof clothing (e.g., rain gear), a hat, sunscreen, a first-aid kit, possibly a flashlight, and enough food and drink to keep your energy up (water, snacks).

Please note the following tips and guidelines:
· Stay on the marked trails.
· Wear hiking boots.
· Use hiking poles.
· Rain gear is always advisable.
· Bring a hiking map with you.
· Carry enough drinking water with you.
· Please do not leave your trash behind on the trail.
· Respect the sensitive habitats of flora and fauna.

You undertake the suggested hikes at your own risk and on your own responsibility.

Erlauf can be reached via the A1 Westautobahn; take the Pöchlarn exit. At the exit, take the third exit at the roundabout toward Ybbs/Erlauf. The B1 leads directly into the town of Erlauf.

Coming from Krems via Wachauerstraße (B3) to Klein Pöchlarn, cross the Danube bridge, and at the roundabout, take the second exit toward the B1. At the next intersection, keep right; at the roundabout near the highway exit, take the second exit, and continue on the B1 to Erlauf. The road leads directly into the town.

Parking is available near the church square or in town.

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Wachau-Nibelungengau-Krems Valley ("Krems Valley" in German)

Erlauf is known as a “peace community” because it was the site of the first joint meeting between the Soviet and American armies following Germany’s unconditional surrender on May 8, 1945. A peace memorial has stood at the original site since 1995. Erlauf offers numerous recreational facilities that encourage physical activity. The Ötscherland Bike Trail runs through Erlauf to the Danube cycle path. Nature lovers appreciate the hiking opportunities, such as the river nature trail along the Erlauf or the trail to the Eichberg Chapel, which offers a magnificent view of the Erlauf Valley, the Nibelungengau, the Wachau, and the Melk Valley.

For more information about the community, visit http://www.friedensgemeinde.at.

Attractions in the Nibelungengau region:
Ybbs-Persenbeug Danube Hydroelectric Power Plant, Erlauf Peace Museum, Oskar Kokoschka Center in Pöchlarn, Leiben European Castle, Artstetten Castle, Maria Taferl Basilica

Events in the Nibelungengau region and surrounding areas can be found here.
Event highlight in the Nibelungengau: Combine your hiking vacation with the summer solstice celebration “Fire Magic in the Nibelungengau” in June. One experience—two options: Celebrate on the banks of the Danube in one of the Nibelungengau communities or aboard a boat. For more information, visit www.sonnenwende.at

All availablepromotional materials for the Nibelungengau can be found here.

You can find route descriptions, including GPS tracks for download, at www.nibelungengau.at.