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The Wachau Marathon is a scenic point-to-point race through Austria’s UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, offering a fast and flat course along the Danube River from Emmersdorf to Krems.
Course Highlights
The Wachau Marathon offers one of the most stunning and fastest courses in Europe. Runners traverse the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rolling vineyards, medieval castles, and the majestic Danube River. The point-to-point route begins in Emmersdorf, directly across from the iconic Melk Abbey, and follows the river downstream. Because the course follows the natural flow of the Danube, it is incredibly flat and even features a slight net downhill, making it a prime destination for athletes aiming to set a personal best. Along the way, participants pass through charming historic villages like Spitz and Dürnstein, the latter famous for its blue church tower and the ruins where Richard the Lionheart was once imprisoned. The final kilometers lead into the city of Krems, where a vibrant finish line atmosphere awaits in the lush Stadtpark.
Race Details
The 26th edition of the Wachau Marathon is scheduled for September 13, 2026. The main marathon event starts at 10:00 am in Emmersdorf an der Donau, with the half marathon also commencing at the same time from the town of Spitz. A unique feature of the event is the “Marathon Express,” a special train service that transports runners from the finish area in Krems to their respective start lines, ensuring a seamless logistical experience. In addition to the full and half marathon distances, the event offers an 11 km quarter marathon starting in Achleiten at 09:30 am, as well as relay options for teams of two, three, or four runners. Registration typically includes the transport fee for the shuttle services. Bib pickup is conveniently located in both Vienna and at the race expo in the Krems Convention Center (Messe Krems) on the days leading up to the race. The event has a long-standing history of excellence, consistently ranking among Austria’s top marathons for its organization and scenic appeal.
Why Runners Love It
Participants from around the world are drawn to the Wachau Marathon not just for the competition, but for the overall experience of the region. The course is lined with enthusiastic spectators, and the refreshment stations are known for offering local specialties, including the region’s famous apricots and world-class wines at the post-race celebrations. The combination of a world-class athletic challenge and a cultural tour through one of Austria’s most beautiful landscapes is hard to beat. Runners particularly appreciate the cool, crisp September air and the fast topography that minimizes muscle strain. The inclusion of junior races and various distances makes it a family-friendly event, while the charitable partnership with organizations like Caritas highlights the community spirit of the race. Whether you are an elite runner chasing a personal record or a recreational jogger soaking in the Danube views, the Wachau Marathon provides a memorable and rewarding finish in the historic heart of Krems.
At a Glance
- Location: Krems an der Donau, Lower Austria — Austria
- Next Date: 2026-09-13
- Distances: Marathon (42.195 km), Half Marathon (21.1 km), Quarter Marathon (11 km), Relay Marathon, Nordic Walking (21.1 km), Junior Marathon
- Start Time: 10:00
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.wachaumarathon.com/en/
Krems an der Donau, Lower Austria 3644 Austria
The Wachau Marathon is a scenic point-to-point race through Austria’s UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, offering a fast and flat course along the Danube River from Emmersdorf to Krems.
Course Highlights
The Wachau Marathon offers one of the most stunning and fastest courses in Europe. Runners traverse the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rolling vineyards, medieval castles, and the majestic Danube River. The point-to-point route begins in Emmersdorf, directly across from the iconic Melk Abbey, and follows the river downstream. Because the course follows the natural flow of the Danube, it is incredibly flat and even features a slight net downhill, making it a prime destination for athletes aiming to set a personal best. Along the way, participants pass through charming historic villages like Spitz and Dürnstein, the latter famous for its blue church tower and the ruins where Richard the Lionheart was once imprisoned. The final kilometers lead into the city of Krems, where a vibrant finish line atmosphere awaits in the lush Stadtpark.
Race Details
The 26th edition of the Wachau Marathon is scheduled for September 13, 2026. The main marathon event starts at 10:00 am in Emmersdorf an der Donau, with the half marathon also commencing at the same time from the town of Spitz. A unique feature of the event is the “Marathon Express,” a special train service that transports runners from the finish area in Krems to their respective start lines, ensuring a seamless logistical experience. In addition to the full and half marathon distances, the event offers an 11 km quarter marathon starting in Achleiten at 09:30 am, as well as relay options for teams of two, three, or four runners. Registration typically includes the transport fee for the shuttle services. Bib pickup is conveniently located in both Vienna and at the race expo in the Krems Convention Center (Messe Krems) on the days leading up to the race. The event has a long-standing history of excellence, consistently ranking among Austria’s top marathons for its organization and scenic appeal.
Why Runners Love It
Participants from around the world are drawn to the Wachau Marathon not just for the competition, but for the overall experience of the region. The course is lined with enthusiastic spectators, and the refreshment stations are known for offering local specialties, including the region’s famous apricots and world-class wines at the post-race celebrations. The combination of a world-class athletic challenge and a cultural tour through one of Austria’s most beautiful landscapes is hard to beat. Runners particularly appreciate the cool, crisp September air and the fast topography that minimizes muscle strain. The inclusion of junior races and various distances makes it a family-friendly event, while the charitable partnership with organizations like Caritas highlights the community spirit of the race. Whether you are an elite runner chasing a personal record or a recreational jogger soaking in the Danube views, the Wachau Marathon provides a memorable and rewarding finish in the historic heart of Krems.
At a Glance
- Location: Krems an der Donau, Lower Austria — Austria
- Next Date: 2026-09-13
- Distances: Marathon (42.195 km), Half Marathon (21.1 km), Quarter Marathon (11 km), Relay Marathon, Nordic Walking (21.1 km), Junior Marathon
- Start Time: 10:00
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.wachaumarathon.com/en/