Saar & Moselle Fairytales
CologneCologne
Countries :
Germany
Luxembourg
Highlight :
Middle Ages, modernity and magical nature
The Moselle River, or Mosel, is the Rhine’s longest tributary, yet only has 217 navigable miles, earning the nickname “Little Sister”. Within this short distance, however, dramatic views abound. Between Koblenz and Trier, terraced vineyards appear to rise from the water to the sky. Picturesque towns and massive fortresses add to the scenery, proving again the Moselle’s own natural talent to amaze.
Ancient, Mosel’s wine region holds as much mystery as it does grapes. No one can say for sure who brought the first wines to the region. With grapevines individually staked to the ground, one assumption is the Celts. The region’s numerous wine presses, however, point to the Romans. What is undisputed, however, is the present-day popularity of the region, attracting connoisseurs who seek the Rieslings and Müller-Thurgau
Mysterious castles, wine terraces and wine-growing villages: from the sun deck, the Moselle will leave you speechless as it follows a sinewy path past breathtaking vistas of sloping vineyards.
The Moselle River meets the Rhine at Koblenz, Germany. On the way through France, it gently snakes across the countryside, eventually forming a natural boundary between Luxembourg and Germany.
In Koblenz, the giant equestrian statue of Emperor Wilhelm I watches over the confluence of the two rivers at Deutsches Eck. Here, witness nature’s wonder as the Moselle's pale green waters mingle with the dark blues of the Rhine. For a more dramatic view, hop a cable car to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress high above Koblenz and gaze upon the entire landscape.
Towering over Cochem, the Gothic Revival castle has a long history tied closely to the town. Much like a fabled damsel in distress, the castle was saved from ruin by Louis Ravené who rebuilt the castle in under ten years. Because this landmark endures, Cochem is known as the Neuschwanstein of the Lower Mosel. Stroll the quaint streets or enjoy local wines, or tour the castle, open between April and November.
Bernkastel-Kues is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in Germany and recognized for its vineyards. Wine enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to enjoy a local glass in a cozy tavern or winery. Stroll through the old town and feel like you’re walking through the pages of time. Stay awhile and build your own story.
The steep slopes around the Moselle River Valley offer excellent conditions for quality wine growing. The grapes cultivated on slate soils mostly produce fruity wines with a pronounced minerality and moderate alcohol content, a perfect fit with modern, light cuisine. About 90 percent of the vineyards are used for the cultivation of white wines, and, as in the Rhine Valley, Riesling represents the most important grape variety. Elbling is a true Mosel specialty, a sparklingly fresh wine with a special feature: Both red and white grapes can grow on its vine.
Trier, Germany's oldest city, offers history reaching back thousands of years. Take in all this city has to offer, from the Roman Porta Nigra and Forum Baths to the enchanting Dreikönigshaus, or House of the Three Magi.
Choose the sweeter side of life.
The romantic Moselle meanders through an enchanting landscape of castles, picture-book villages and terraced slate slopes. The land here is one of the richest wine regions in the world and offers history dating back to Roman times. Discover the magic on one of our Moselle cruises.