Retz
“Although it’s known for its vast network of underground wine cellars, Retz still holds many undiscovered secrets deep beneath the town,” says Maria Wegscheider.
Retz offers so much – above and below the ground. The town in the western wine-producing region is not only famous for its extensive vineyards which are perfect for walks but also for an impressive underground network of wine cellars. “Despite its size, many parts of this system are still unexplored,” explains Maria Wegscheider from the organic wine-growing estate Gruber Röschitz. During a visit to Retz, visitors can delve deep into the history of the wine-producing town whilst at the same time experiencing a very vibrant present-day. Besides the well-known sights such as the windmill and the extensive labyrinth of wine cellars below the town, visitors should also go to Röschitz where they can find out more about the region’s wines on a guided cellar tour and tasting.
5 questions for Maria Wegscheider, Gruber-Röschitz vineyard
Maria Wegscheider manages the Gruber Röschitz organic vineyard with her brothers Ewald and Christian Gruber.
| What is your favourite place? | My favourite place in the western wine-growing region is Röschitz which is a 15-minute car journey from Retz, it’s where I grew up. It’s not only a place which has many memories for me and a close association to my home. Even now, I still discover new things on a walk through the vineyards. |
| What do people not know about your town? | Retz is famous for its vast network of underground wine cellars which is one of the biggest in Central Europe. Yet there are still many undiscovered and unexplored parts of this system. |
| When does the town look most appealing? | Retz is impressive at any time of the year. The vineyards are ideal for exploring the local area on a leisurely walk. Whether at one of the many festivals or wine samplings, there is always a lively buzz in the town. |
| What would you recommend visitors do in bad weather? | When the weather is bad, visitors can either visit the underground wine cellars or the windmill in Retz or our vineyard for a wine experience (cellar tour & wine tasting), enjoy a glass of wine and then drive to one of the many local wine taverns or restaurants. |
| What should visitors not miss in the local region? | The underground cellars and windmill in Retz, the Gruber Röschitz organic vineyard, Thayatal |
![... "underneath" the underground cellar network., © Michal Petrů](http://www.lower-austria.info/images/fcnesvajkri-/underneath-the-underground-cellar-network.jpg "... "underneath" the underground cellar network., © Michal Petrů")
“Drüber und Drunter” in Advent
The “Drüber und Drunter” (“Above and below”) Advent programme in Retz brings the pre-Advent time to life in Retz. Whilst visitors can enjoy a great Christmas atmosphere with punch, chestnuts and traditional music on the main square, the themed underground cellar offers a magical labyrinth of wine and history. Tip for anyone looking for presents: from 6 to 8 December you can buy hand-made arts and crafts in the themed cellar until the evening hours. Foodies, meanwhile, look forward to the Retz food market every Saturday morning – with regional specialities promising many culinary highlights. For an extra special atmosphere combine shopping with ice skating and visit the artificial ice rink in the town centre.
Between heaven and earth
The top of the town hall offers an unforgettable view of the historic old town of Retz and surrounding vineyards. Far below the ground, meanwhile, the Retz themed wine cellar fascinates all who visit as this is Austria’s biggest historic wine cellar. Here you can immerse yourself in wine culture and look forward to an exciting maze adventure. After a guided tour – daily at 2.00 pm – you can also go on a wine tasting before visiting a cosy restaurant or one of the many local wine taverns.
Indulgent moments in the wine-growing town
The culinary scene in Retz should also be explored on any visit here: in the Restaurant Althof Retz diners can enjoy Lower Austrian specialities with a Mediterranean twist accompanied by perfectly matched regional wines. The “Mährische Botschaft im Weinschlössl” combines the best of various wine districts with mährisch (Moravian) cuisine served with select Austrian and Czech wines and beers. “Pollak's Wirtshaus – Der Retzbacherhof” – the culinary hotspot in the Retzer Land, also sets new trends and offers classic dishes as well as an excellent choice of creative and meat-free alternatives. Local wine taverns which are open in the winter include the Weinbau & Buschenschank Kruspel as well as Freytag. For anyone wishing to stay longer, the Landgut & Spa Althof Retz and sgrafit hotel & apartments offer excellent accommodation options.
An absolute insider tip is the “new” Gruber Röschitz organic vineyard which combines centuries-old wine-growing tradition with modern, sustainable wine cultivation in the heart of the wine region. The Gruber family places special emphasis on natural cultivation, working by hand and authenticity - from the vine to the bottle. After a wander through the wine cellar lanes, the vineyard is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of wine and the work of the wine-growers. Thursday to Saturday from 1.00 pm to 7.00 pm.
