The Wachau (German pronunciation: [vaˈxaʊ]) is an Austrian valley with a landscape of high visibility formed by the Danube river. It is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of Lower Austria, located midway between the towns of Melk and Krems. It is 30 km in length and was already settled in prehistoric times. A well-known place and tourist attraction is Dürnstein, where King Richard the Lion-Heart of England was held captive by Duke Leopold V.
The Wachau is well known for its production of apricots and grapes, both of which are used to produce specialty liquors and wines. Wachau is a source of Austria's most prized dry Rieslings and Grüner Veltliners.
The Wachau was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in recognition of its architectural and agricultural history.
Related to the Austrian Wachau is the Wachovia area in North Carolina.