This photo is of the square in Linz brilliantly lit for the Christmas Market -- but more about that later.In true Austrian tradition, let's 'start at the very beginning'...
Today we left the sunshine and city lights of Vienna and sailed into the beautiful Wachau Valley of Austria where our view from our cabin was one of trees with light dusting of snow along the banks of the Danube. With the valley's charming villages, the landscape is one of a picturesque countryside. We passed through several locks as the river level rose toward the Continental Divide.
Our excursion this morning was a tour of the 1000- year old Benedictine monastery in Melk. For over 900 years monks have continually lived and worked in Stift Melk following the rules laid down by St Benedict. Views of the Danube and the valley from this Baroque monastery as well as the interior rooms were well worth the climb up the hill.
Following the Abbey tour we spent about an hour in the the small village of Melk, and I managed to find a vendor selling hot Gluhwein on the street. My German and his English made for an interesting conversation. One of my favorite activities in Europe is to spend time with locals in tiny villages so I loved this hour.
Back on board we immediately set sail for Linz and passed through 2 more locks during lunch. After lunch we visited with the captain on the bridge learning some of the intricacies of sailing a river boat.
By 5pm we docked in Linz and walked to the old part of the city and the Christmas Market. Each market has its own distinctive character and this one was truly a "Happy Hour" gathering for the young people of Linz. Sipping Gluhwein (yes, I did acquire my 4th mug) and munching on Christmas goodies, they were definitely enjoying the season.
Following dinner we were treated to a special concert from 3 very talented singers who had driven down from Salzburg. They began with arias from Mozart's Marriage of Figaro and The Magic Flute and finished with wonderful renditions from The Sound of Music. Edelweiss is especially moving when heard in Austria.
Tomorrow we head for Salzburg(by bus) for a full day in the mountains.
Linda
1 comment:
"The hills are alive....with the sound of Linda..." Your descriptions are captivating and I am so anxious to read everyday. I worry...will there be enough Gluhwein for the rest of Europe after Linda finishes touring?? We had our own excitement: sleet and snow in Austin last night and College Station received 3 INCHES today! Crazy! Nothing stayed on the warm streets, of course.Will freeze hard tonight. Luv ya, Kay
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