Durnstein and Melk, Austria

Country Village Life Along the Danube

Dateline: Durnstein, Austria

Today this tiny village set among the rocky coast of the Danube experienced an American invasion.  It was only for an hour, as the invaders needed to return to their ship for lunch.

It was an icy climb up to the village.

This is a lovely, sleepy village this time of year.  I imagine in summer it is packed.

After cruising through the beautiful Wachau Valley we arrived in Melk, home to the famous Melk Abbey.

Monks have lived at this Abbey for over 900 years, following the rules of St. Benedict.

I think I could live in this library forever. 

In days past, it could only be used in daylight, no candles allowed, to safeguard from fire.

The highly ornate Baroque church at Melk.

We decided to brave the misty cold and walk home through the town.

After a quick peek in the shops, we headed back through the forest trail. 

I had to get home to watch...

...my new friend Olivia give the cookie making demonstration.