We woke up this morning to find that it was going to be rainy (97% chance of precipitation) and cold (3 degrees Celsius).

We had been booked to take the Durnstein walking tour, but decided we weren’t all that interested in getting stuck walking in the rain. So we walked on our own up to the Melk Abbey. We still had to walk in the rain, but we had the option of heading back anytime we wanted.

We had the option of touring the abbey museum and chapel, but we opted instead to walk through the very extensive abbey gardens. I know, I know. I said we wanted to avoid the rain, but the rain was very light, the gardens looked intriguing, we didn’t have time to do the museum justice, and I’ve already shown you far too many pictures of chapels. And with the rain, we pretty much had the place to ourselves.

The gardens were a fascinating combination of areas for quiet contemplation, zen gardens, picnic areas, scenic views over the Danube, flower beds, and many, many pieces of modern art. These bird statues were amazing – equal parts mesmerizing and disturbing. Almost like something from an Edgar Allan Poe book or a Tim Burton movie.

Believe it or not, this was less than half of the statues. I found it difficult to stop taking pictures. There were also many other art attractions.

And of course, so many trees with quiet paths to walk along.

The tulips were just beginning to bloom. In a week or so, it will be gorgeous.