Moments of pleasure
on the Benedict Pilgrimage Trail Kremstal in 360° Alpenland
Stop off between the pen, meadows and sweeping views
Experience regional cuisine along the Benedict Trail
Anyone travelling along the Benedict Pilgrimage Trail in the Krems Valley soon realises that this trail not only nourishes the mind, but also the body. Between rolling hills, wide fields and the walls of Schlierbach Abbey, inns, farm shops and small cafés invite you to pause for a moment.
Here they cook what the season has to offer. Potatoes from the region, crusty farmhouse bread, flavoursome cheese from the abbey cheese dairy, cider from meadow orchards and herbs from the gardens along the way. The cuisine is down-to-earth yet refined - characterised by respect for the product and knowledge of ancient craftsmanship.
The area around Schlierbach Abbey shows just how closely spirituality and cuisine can be linked. After a quiet moment in the church or a walk through the monastery corridors, a warm soup, a piece of pastry or a glass of cider in the garden with a view of the Kremstal valley will do you good.
Every section between Kirchdorf an der Krems and the hills of the Kremstal is a path full of possibilities - out in nature and at the table. In the spirit of 360° Alpenland, where every adventure area is part of a larger whole.
Interesting facts about catering on the Benedict pilgrimage route in the Krems Valley
Along the Benedict Trail in the Krems Valley, family-run inns, cider taverns and monasteries characterise the culinary scene. Regional specialities from Upper Austria are served - from hearty soups to homemade pastries. The cuisine is based on what the fields, forests and farms around Kirchdorf and Schlierbach produce.
Typical Krems Valley products include abbey cheese from Schlierbach, cider from orchards and fresh farmhouse bread. Many businesses rely on ingredients from their own farm or from the immediate surroundings - noticeable in the flavour and in the farming.
There are cosy inns and cafés between stage locations such as Kirchdorf an der Krems and Schlierbach Abbey. They are within walking distance of the Benedikt pilgrimage route and offer simple, refreshing dishes for hikers and pilgrims.
Schlierbach Abbey is not only the spiritual centre of the Benedictine Way, but also a culinary anchor. The abbey cheese dairy stands for artisan cheese culture in Upper Austria and combines monastic tradition with regional flavours.
Gastronomy in the Krems Valley offers a selection of vegetarian dishes - often inspired by regional herbs, vegetables and grains. Light dishes go well with the rhythm of the pilgrimage and the idea of conscious reduction.
Yes, classic inns can be found around Kirchdorf an der Krems and in the surrounding villages. They are meeting places for locals and guests - places where pilgrims are welcome.
Even if you only walk one stage of the Benedict Pilgrimage Trail, you will find numerous opportunities to stop for refreshments. The catering is geared towards hikers and well integrated into the route.
Pilgrimage in 360° Alpenland means reducing to the essentials. A simple, warm meal after a day in the Krems Valley becomes a conscious moment - nourishment for body and mind.
Reservations are recommended at weekends and during the main tourist season, especially for groups. During the week, individual pilgrims can usually easily find a place.