This was our second visit to the postcard-perfect Dürnstein. On our last trip, there was no time to climb up the hill to the castle ruins, but this time we decided to give it a try. It was steep and a bit treacherous on the snowy steps, but at each corner, the ever-improving view demanded that we march on. We were rewarded at the top. The view provided a spectacular backdrop to yet another all-time favorite shot of my ever-cooperative model.

Here are a few more views of Dürnstein and the surrounding Wachau Valley where we tasted mulled wine and saffron chocolate, enjoyed a short organ concert in the ornate church and even snuck in a little shopping. Luckily, Dürnstein is too small to have a proper Christmas Market.