When the first warm rays of sunshine reflect off the waters of the Danube and the air smells of spring, something quite impressive happens just an hour’s drive from Vienna. Nearly 100,000 apricot trees drape the Wachau in a soft pink mantle. Instead of hustle and bustle, there is pure nature here. An ideal opportunity to clear your head and take a deep breath. Here we’ve summarized the most important information about locations, times, and hidden gems for you.
When to go
Currently, the orchards are just about to reach full bloom, which traditionally peaks around Easter week ,from late March to early April. Depending on the weather, this pink spectacle lasts a good two to three weeks.
To make sure you don’t end up facing closed buds, there’s a pretty smart trick. Just check the live webcam at wachauermarille.at before you leave. That way, you can see in real time how far along nature is in the orchards around Arnsdorf.
The best route for a walk along the water
For the densest seas of blossoms, head to the south bank of the Danube. Especially in the municipality of Rossatz-Arnsdorf, you can stroll for miles through the blooming orchards and let your mind wander.
Those who prefer to take in the scenery from the water can once again board the DDSG Blue Danube cruise ships starting March 28, 2026, and watch the riverbanks glide by.
Where you can have the pink spectacle almost all to yourself
If there’s a bit too much hustle and bustle along the Danube for your taste, simply take a detour into the quieter hinterland. In the Spitzer Graben, especially around the small villages of Mühldorf and Elsarn, you’ll often share the landscape with just a few locals.
Because the orchards here are situated a bit higher up, the blossoms usually open a few days later —perfect if you’ve missed the main rush. Here, you can stroll in complete relaxation among the old trees and the typical, steep stone terraces.
By the way: If the sight of the buds is already making your mouth water, you absolutely must come back in the summer. Starting in mid-July , the apricot harvest begins in the Wachau , allowing you to stock up on fresh fruit straight from the farm just in time for the hot season.
Our tip if your stomach is growling
If you’re in the mood for regional delicacies after your walk, you won’t have to go home empty-handed. On April 3 and 4, 2026, the Krems Apricot Blossom Market will open its doors at Dreifaltigkeitsplatz and Pfarrplatz.
From 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., fill your bag with fresh pastries, the first wine of the season, and, of course, all kinds of apricot products. Pack up your haul and find a cozy outdoor café in Krems’ pedestrian zone to relax a bit in the sun.
