The beautiful city of Kelheim is located at the confluence of the Danube River and the Main-Danube Canal. The first residence of the Wittelsbach princes, it was granted town rights as early as 1181. The city is the gateway for excursions through the dramatic scenery of the Danube Gorge. With its 400-foot cliffs, the Gorge is the river’s steepest, narrowest area and is justly famous for its stunning scenery. Nearby is Weltenburg Abbey, one of the oldest monasteries in Bavaria, founded in 610 A.D. and well known for its dark ale and a brewing tradition dating back to 1050 A.D.