Dürnstein is the most romantic village in the Wachau gorge, the UNESCO-listed Danube valley between Melk and Krems. Richard I of England was held captive in the castle above the village in 1192-1193; the ruined tower is a 30-minute walk up. The blue Baroque tower of the Augustinian monastery at the village edge is the defining image of the Wachau. The village has only a few hundred permanent residents and fills with river cruise visitors during peak hours; early morning and evening show the real village. Grüner Veltliner from the terraced vineyards above the village is available at local producers. About 10 minutes from Krems by car.