Herr Johann Schendl’s family has owned the Gasthof Sänger Blondel, in Dürnstein, since 1730. The gasthof’s name is based on the legend of Richard the Lionheart’s faithful servant, Sänger Blondel, who discovered his master was imprisoned in Dürnstein castle by playing Richard’s favorite song beneath his window. When the king’s voice joined in the refrain, the English knew where he was hidden. [ Thanks to Karen Brown for the backstory]
The compelling beauty of Dürnstein, a medieval village perched in heart of the Wachau Valley, and on the Danube, which forms it, were part of the lure of our return to this region. The warm apricot-curd strudel with vanilla-apricot sauce, served in the tranquil garden beneath our room, with the church chorus resonating amidst ancient walls, set the tone for our welcome. (It would be hard to make this up as a credible travel fantasy.)
The climb to the castle ruins above the town, evening strolls over the cobble stones of the tiny town, dinner in the Gruner Veltliner vineyards, a lazy tourist excursion by boat up the Danube to the Melk Monastery, and a robust 12.5 km. hike to the regional center of Krems, are only flashes of the charm of our 3 days here.
Prior to Durnstein, we stopped for 2 days in Styer in “lower Austria” – an old trading center on the edge of dairy country. We enjoyed great food – morning “energy” yogurt, roasted duck, salads with chicken, hefeweizen (wheat beer), and riesling. Our relaxing stay in Styer was highlighted by long walks along the river, resting in the modern Hotel Christkindelwirt, (yes, that Kris Kringle) run by family Baumgartner. Who knew that they might be relatives of Dave, the guy who owned the corner drugstore where I grew up?
Each day continues to bring delights, surprises, and the occasional Ostern egg.
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Your pictures are absolutely spectacular and tell such a delightful story. I am so happpy you are both having such a great experience creating so many beautiful memories together.
howard.. thank you for sharing these lovely pictures…… it is great to see a recent one pof you