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Wild and tamed - different stretches of river!
The Danube is still allowed to flow freely and wildly for 23 km between Vohburg and Weltenburg. In this section, it can overflow its banks during floods without being slowed down by artificial structures, flowing through species-rich alluvial forests and wet meadows and creating a unique natural landscape.
Immediately after Weltenburg Abbey, the river landscape changes: the Danube meanders for almost 4.5 km through the rock faces of the "Weltenburger Enge", which rise up to 70 m high.
A highlight for all nature lovers, one of the most impressive gorge valleys in Germany and the oldest nature reserve in Bavaria. In 1978, it was awarded the European Diploma by the Council of Europe due to its supra-regional importance.
Below Kelheim, the river landscape changes again: for 18.5 km to Bad Abbach-Oberndorf, the river was turned into a waterway from the mouth of the Main-Danube Canal in Kelheim.
However, the attraction of a boat trip on the Danube lies not only in its unique natural landscape, which is worth protecting. The historic towns along the river are also well worth a visit. From the Bernauer town of Vohburg, Wackerstein Castle, Neustadt and the Abusina Roman fort near Eining to the Benedictine abbey of Weltenburg with the famous Asam Church or the Wittelsbach town of Kelheim, there is something for everyone.
Under the following link you can download the sections as "Tour PDF": https://www.herzstueck.bayern/urlaubserlebnisse/kanutouren
Important hazard warnings!
- Danger to life during floods!
- For experienced boaters, the Danube is relatively safe to navigate up to a water level of 350 cm.
- However, beginners should only paddle at low and medium water levels up to a maximum of 300 cm.
- Information on the current water levels can be found on the Internet at www.hnd.bayern.de or by calling 01804/370037-114.
- Attention! Passenger boats run from Weltenburg Abbey!
- Due to the difficult current conditions in the Danube gorge, beginners are advised to end the boat tour in Stausacker. The exit in front of Weltenburg Monastery may not be used for transportation by car.
- Near Wackerstein there is a water training area of the German Armed Forces. Passage may be prohibited here at short notice.
- Cable ferries cross the Danube at Eininig/Hienheim and Stausacker/Weltenburg. They have the right of way, as you cannot stop on the river.
- From Kelheim, the Danube is a federal waterway. Watch out for encounters with cargo ships and motorboats! There is also an increased risk potential from here, as motorboats, water skiers and jet boats are allowed to travel without speed limits!
- For safety reasons, only travel with a life jacket!
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