R1.14 Moonstone circuit

Description:
Dreamy summit cycle tour out of Strudengau ravine – at one time one of the most dangerous sections of the Danube – to the mysterious Mondstein (600 m). You cycle via two panoramic mountain ridges to the highest point. Superb views into the distance, short climbs, relaxing terraces ... – pure pleasure! Cultural highlights: Kneipp spa town of Bad Kreuzen, the little Danube town of Grein.

Highlights:

•  Summit cycle tour with 375 metres of ascent


• Historic town of Grein (the gateway to Strudengau – Greinburg, oldest town theatre ...)


• 360° panoramic viewing tower on Kreuzen castle


• Kneipp garden 'Bad Kreuzen' (The biggest Kneipp garden in Austria) 


• Mondstein (Highest point of the circuit, mysterious energy-filled place)

Directions:
The Strudengau - a narrow breakthrough valley on the Danube was at one time of the most dangerous sections of the river. The little historic town of Grein is the gateway to Strudengau and was the last safe docking option available before the dangerous whirlpool areas. Magnificent facades, distinguished bay windows … tell of the prosperity thanks to pilot and transshipment services. A Danube highlight! On the banks of the Danube in Grein the 375 metre summit ascent begins. At the foot of Greinburg castle, you cycle through the historic town centre. Just after the outskirts of the town, the first panoramic mountain ridge ascent begins. Through traditional Mühlviertel farmland and short sections of forest, the goods road meanders upwards. Short ascents alternate with relaxing terraces. The panorama opens up as the elevation increases: the concealed Klamer basin, impressive Clam castle, the majestic Alps ... - pure mountain cycling fun! At the apex of the mountain ridge, on the transverse ridge, the Kneipp spa town of Bad Kreuzen and Kreuzen castle reveal themselves. After a short section on the main road you are on the saddle, between the town and the castle. Two detours are worthwhile here – Kreuzen Castle inspires with a superb 360° panoramic view from the keep! While the tradition spa town inspires with granite art, inviting you to relax and unwind in the biggest Kneipp garden in Austria! There follows a short section through woodland into Badbachtal. There the second panoramic mountain ridge ascent begins. Above the traditional lowland wood, a rural panoramic ridge inspires: wonderful views down into the depths, with the Alps to the south, and to the north the eternal Nordwald ... – a proper flight of fancy! At the mysterious (600 m), A primeval cult area close to the Wetzelstein summit, you are on the rooftop of this circuit. Congratulations! A short section back, then you proceed north, on gently undulating terrain through an agricultural cultural landscape and finally speed down into the secluded lowland forest of Gießenbach. In the shaded valley floor, you enjoy a relaxing cycle down river. After a section on the main road, passing popular Aumühle, you leave the lowland wood area via a steep forest goods road. Once you get to the mountain ridge, it's about enjoying the thrill of the descent! Through lush meadows, little areas of woodland, past beautiful farmsteads ... Short counter-climbs and a section of sandy road are the salt in your soup. At the farming hamlet of Ober-/Unterwarschenberg the superb views down into Grein inspire. In the rhythm of the downhill bends, you quickly get to the residential foothill area of the little town. Tip: It is worth breaking up the speedy descent on the railway bridge and making a short detour to Kalvarienberg – superb views to Grein cove and the historic views of the town! Then head down on the Donauuferstraße and via the promenade on the banks of the Danube back to the starting point. To the moon/Mond(stein) and back!

Safety guidelines:
The main section of this dreamy summit cycle tour proceeds via goods roads and agricultural side roads with good asphalt coverage. In Gießenbachtal there is a section over 1.4 km via a main road which is not much used. At the ridge outside Grein there is a section spanning around 500m of sandy road which even road bikes can tackle with ease. Basic gear technique is necessary for the long climb. Basic braking technique is necessary for the long, twisty descents.

Signage:

To make orientation easier, the Danube Cycle Path has been signposted with its own cycle guidance 

system. This circuit follows the"R1.14 Mondstein-Runde" signposts.