Formed by the picturesque Danube River, the extraordinarily scenic Wachau Valley is located in Lower Austria, midway between the Austrian towns of Krems and Melk. Known for its beautiful rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, this 40-kilometre-long valley is a prominent tourist destination with many fortresses, castles, monasteries, ruins and baroque architecture to discover. History buffs should not miss the quaint town of Durnstein, the place where King Richard the Lion-Heart of England was held captive. Other not-to-be-missed activities include exploring the recently restored Melk Abbey; visiting Forum Frohner, Krem's impressive contemporary white cube gallery space; or simply soaking up the exquisite landscape by meandering down the river by bike, bus, or boat.