The Danube shapes the setting of Marbach an der Donau. When planning, you can distinguish between different scales: the trail to the entrance of Steinbach Gorge, a designated long-distance hiking stage, and places of local historical interest. There are also cycling routes on both sides of the river and activities on the water. This lets you set your priorities before choosing specific things to do during your stay.
Hiking Trails and Different Distances
Stage 3 of the Nibelungengau long-distance hiking trail starts at the landing stage in Marbach and ends at the entrance to Maria Taferl. It is a moderately difficult, 9.04-kilometer hike that passes through Steinbach Gorge. Check the current route before setting out.
From Marbach, the entrance to Steinbach Gorge can be reached by following the Steinbach stream towards MĂĽnichreith for about one kilometer. This describes the route to the entrance, not the length of the entire Stage 3. The two distances therefore refer to different outings: access to the gorge and a designated hike to Maria Taferl.
Another route description leads from the Church of St. Martin to Calvary Hill: about 100 steps take you up to the three crosses. This gives you a choice between a hiking stage with a distance in kilometers and a route with a specific number of steps.
Getting Around by the River
Cycling routes run on both sides of the Danube and through the side valleys. The options are not limited to one side of the river: the side valleys are also part of the cycling routes described here. The MS Marbach operates on sightseeing trips and as a ferry. Check the current timetable and operating days for your travel dates.
WSC Wakesharks offers taster courses for beginners and guided trips on the Danube. Activities include wakeboarding and wakesurfing for beginners and experienced participants. Courses and trips may change, so check current availability before making plans.
Nibelungenbad has a swimming pool, a children’s pool and large sunbathing lawns. There are also facilities for tennis, basketball, table tennis and table football. Opening hours in 2026 are seasonal; check the current hours before visiting. This makes the swimming pool a distinct option alongside cycling, hiking and activities on the water.
Architectural History in Town
Nibelungenhof is a former inn dating from the early 15th century. Its architectural features include a notable mansard hipped roof, a Baroque façade and old vaulted cellars. The town’s history can therefore also be explored through its architecture, not just its hiking trails and activities along the river.
The primary school was built in 1914 as Clemens Holzmeister’s first work. It was constructed on the site of a grain store built in 1493 for the fruit trade. Only a few walls remained after the store was demolished. The site therefore brings together the history of the schoolhouse and an earlier connection to the fruit trade.
The pillory in Marbach an der Donau also has a clear historical connection: an entry by the Federal Monuments Authority dated June 23, 2026, states that it is protected as a listed monument by regulation. This gives visitors a choice of different themes for their stay: trails and outdoor activities, things to do on the water, or architectural and local history.
Discover more destinations: Mank, Nächst Altenmarkt, Persenbeug, Ybbs an der Donau, Texing, Pöggstall, Zelking, Maria Taferl.
For the broader travel overview: Melk.
