Recreational Mecca

Driving through Austrian mountains was fascinating with  the panoramic and  captivating view of the mighty Danube meandering along though the valleys.

As the second longest river (after Volga) of Europe it  forms boundaries with several countries.
Rising in Germany’s Black Forest, it covers nearly 1,770 miles (2,850 km) to reach the Black Sea,  passing along or through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, and Moldova.

During Roman times the Danube was the northern boundary of their vast Empire.

Historically, the Danube has been a constant concern to Vienna when in flood. A sophisticated flood control system was designed over the years to control it.

The first notable measures were taken between 1870 and 1875. This was followed by others in subsequent years to achieve reliable flood protection.

A relief channel (the New Danube) was dug and the excavated  material  used to create a long, narrow  island  in central Vienna.  Known as the Danube Island,  it is a widely acclaimed recreational Mecca for visitors.

With 170 hectares of woodland and over 40 kilometres of beaches, it has numerous bars,  restaurants and nightclubs, and offers water sport opportunities such as swimming, canoeing and sailing.

Danube Island Festival,  held during June, attracts nearly 3 million visitors annually. During three days Vienna starts to rock with large number of cabaret groups and events on various stages. It is well organized and the entrance is free.

The festival is renowned for superb theatrical performances.  Musical ensembles and opera companies are invited from all over the world.

As an internationally famous open air festival in Vienna, it is recognized as Europe's biggest event of this kind.