This wonderful area of central Germany is mainly known for its river cruising opportunities, but the region offers fabulous hiking trails with views of both of these lovely rivers.

In the mediaeval period, various barons anxious to profit from the river trade dominated the region from their powerful castles. We are now left with one of the highest concentrations in Europe of wonderful mediaeval fortresses to explore.

Tour: Rhine & Mosel Valleys, Germany

Tour Length: 8 days / 7 nights

Tour Price:

   Call for current prices and availability

Day 01: (Sunday) Arrive into Frankfurt airport and meet at our nearby hotel. We'll depart at midday for our inn (three nights) on the banks of the Mosel. The river carves its way between two massifs of Rhineland schist, its steep slopes covered in vineyards and oakwoods. The vineyards produce light, flavorful white wines, mainly dry Riesling varieties.

Day 02 & Day 03: (Monday & Tuesday) The Mosel meanders between narrow stretches of fertile soil, which attracted settlers eons ago. Romans, Franks, Huns and many others lived in or used this area as a highway. Fine monasteries, magnificent castle ruins and ancient villages dot the landscape, some of which we will visit on our travels.

We'll explore Trier with its fine Roman ruins, one of the oldest market squares in Germany, and a fine Romanesque cathedral, museums and more. The town was capital of Rome's western territories of Gaul, Germania, Britain and Spain and thus the focus of intense cultural, economic and intellectual activity. From the fine market cross in the Hauptmarkt, one can admire over 15 centuries of history.

Day 04: (Wednesday) Moving north along the Moselle, we head for Koblenz (two nights), at its confluence with the mighty Rhine. En route we will hike to Burg Eltz (inset), one of the most romantic castles in Germany. Bristling with eight towers, spires and numerous turrets, it offers inspirational views of the Moselle and surrounding forests. Period furnishings, paintings, armour and gothic ornamentation vie with the castles dramatic situation for our attention.

Day 05: (Thursday) Koblenz has long been a center of trading and cultural activity, being influenced by its French and German heritage. The city's sights, including the Deutsches Ecke, where the two rivers meet, and the Romanesque Liebfrauenkirche, are dramatically overlooked by one of the most magnificent fotresses in Europe, the Ehrenbreitstein citadel, rebuilt by the Prussians in the early 1800s.

Day 06 & Day 07: (Friday & Saturday) We turn south along the Rhine River Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Region since 2002. Overnight near Bingen (two nights). Twisting and curving through the surrounding plateau, the river is overlooked by castles and half-timbered villages which dot the river banks. Barges, cruisers and pleasure boats ply the water, and every rock boasts mediaeval tales of chivalry or legend. One of the most famous is the Loreley, where an enchanting maiden lures unsuspecting sailors to their demise with her haunting song.

The Rheinsteig is a new premium walking trail which follows the course of the River Rhine, spectacularly situated on the right bank of the Rhine. Predominately following the hills overlooking the river, the trail offers a variety of walks and amazing natural and cultural experiences.

Day 08: (Sunday) Return to Frankfurt for morning flights. (meals on the flight)

Tours must be booked at least 45 days prior to arrival.

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