Rock in Wachau: Tourism is recovering thanks to ferry operation!

Rock in Wachau: Tourism is recovering thanks to ferry operation!

A dramatic rock fall between Aggsbach-Dorf and Aggstein paralyzed traffic on the B33 and the popular Danube cycle path a year ago. In the region, the EU is a lifeline for bike tourism with more than 12,000 monthly cyclists who are essential for the local economy. The rock fall caused serious cancellations and a decline in bookings in hotels and restaurants. Now there is hope: Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner announced that the continuousness of the Danube Cycle Path will soon be restored, which promises a positive view of the coming tourist season. According to noe.gv.at , the ferry operation between Aggsbach-Dorf and Aggstein was quickly set up, in order to safely divide cyclists and pedestrians.

ferry operation for cycling and pedestrians

On June 3, 2024, a huge amount of around 13,000 cubic meters of rock fell on the busy B33 and blocked the Danube Cycle Path. Fortunately, there were no injuries. The newly furnished ferry operation, which runs every 15 minutes, now connects the two places across the Danube. However, it takes some time until the streets are completely approved. Spitz-Wachau reports that the ferry takes a ride of only 5 to 8 minutes and is in operation every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The tourism managers are optimistic about the upcoming events, especially the Wachau apricot flower and the gourmet festival, which are supposed to attract numerous visitors. The region also increasingly relies on public transport to coordinate the rush to the living cultural landscape of the Wachau. So the hope of a successful start of the season remains intact even in times of the challenges.