Situated on the flatter riverside plains that occasionally straddle the Danube before it swings back in to the hills, Camping Au an der Donau is a wonderfully unassuming place. Spread around a central, naturally formed lake the pitches are only designated in the main electrified area, while elsewhere the grassy field is open for tent-goers to use. The majority of these spots, while enjoying the rich greenery of the campsite and the lake's quaint wooden rowing boat, don’t actually have views of the Danube. A protective bank, on which the bike trail runs, shelters much of the campsite from its waters. Near the reception kiosk in its pwn private garden, a singly wooden glamping tunnel provides perfect seclusion for any glamping couple, with idyllic views of the little marina and the Danube itself.
With two well-kept sanitary buildings, a campfire and barbeque area, free Wi-Fi and keenly priced bike hire the campsite is up to date with modern standards. A guest garden, striped with picnic benches, is open to campers and locals alike and when the sun’s out there’s a social buzz to the place that’s only accentuated by the buoyant enthusiasm of the campsite owner, Gerhard, ever smiling and on hand.
Active types have options beyond cycling, with a volleyball court down by the riverside and a ping-pong table to use. At one end of the lake you can also cross a small wooden bridge to the neighbouring recreation centre – a separate business in the village that welcomes campers to use their tennis courts. It’s much in keeping with the general vibe of the place. Au an der Donau seems almost like an extension of the campsite itself and a pleasant one at that, with cute little restaurants serving fish straight from the water. Campers aren’t anything new here but everyone’s still keen to give a big, warm welcome. Perhaps they put something in the water? Who knows? It would certainly explain the richness of the flora and fauna of the campsite, but that’s beside the point. A friendly campsite is a winning campsite and this one gets our vote.
