We don’t always have to travel far. World-famous culture and unexpected history await us in Munich. And there are also places around the city that can compete with the top sights of other countries. The Danube Gorge near Weltenburg, for example, is described as the Bavarian counterpart to the Grand Canyon. Perhaps a little too grandiose? Time to take a closer look at this special place.
The Grand Canyon of Bavaria
The Danube Gorge is officially located in the “Weltenburger Enge” nature reserve. It describes an approximately 5.5-kilometer-long narrow section of the Danube Valley between Kelheim and Weltenburg Abbey. Here, over millions of years, the Danube has carved its way deep into the limestone of the Franconian Alb. The result is vertical rock faces up to 80 meters high, rising directly out of the water.
Whether these rock faces can really compete with the Grand Canyon is something everyone must decide for themselves. But they are impressive in any case! Many of the rocks even have imaginative nicknames such as “The Three Enemy Brothers,” “The Petrified Church,” or “Napoleon’s Hat.”
Even King Ludwig of Bavaria recognized the potential of the Danube Gorge. He placed the site under nature conservation in 1840. Today, it is the only Bavarian natural monument to have been awarded the European Diploma.
A natural spectacle with cultural highlights
The best way to experience the Danube Gorge near Weltenburg is from a boat . Large excursion boats depart from Kelheim and travel through the gorge. This allows you to see the massive rock walls towering directly above you. Alternatively , there is a beautiful high-altitude trail from Kelheim over the rocks to the monastery, which offers repeated views of the gorge .
Once you’re there, be sure to visit the Liberation Hall on Michelsberg . This monumental rotunda built by King Ludwig I offers a perfect view of the Danube Valley. And at the end of the gorge lies Weltenburg Abbey. It is home to the oldest monastery brewery in the world and has existed since 1050.
