The Classic Moselle

You may cancel your hotel break at any time, but if you do so you will have to pay us cancellation charges based on a scale. These charges are to compensate us for the risk of not being able to re-sell your accommodation. When you cancel you must inform us or your travel agent in writing and your cancellation only takes effect from the date we or your travel agent receive your notice in writing, signed by the person who made the booking, together with any travel tickets or vouchers we may already have sent you. Please note that if only part of a booking is cancelled this may mean that the accommodation booked will be under occupied and may result in the remaining guests having to pay any applicable supplements, e.g. changing a twin room to a single.

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS ENCHANTING AHR VALLEY WITH GUIDE

Today we explore this beautiful region, known locally as the ‘wildest daughter of the Rhine’, with an expert guide. The origins of this name are quite obvious when you look at the spectacular scenery, as the Ahr River meanders its way through the picturesque valleys, with breath-taking rock formations, idyllic castles, ruins and terraced vineyards rolling down the hillsides. 

We visit the charming town of Ahrweiler, known as the ‘metropolis of red wine’. The town is surrounded by medieval town walls, and many of the buildings are original, giving it a truly medieval atmosphere. Our guide will provide us with unique insight into Ahrweiler’s history, before we continue our journey back to the ship, passing through pretty little villages along the way.

VISIT TO BERNKASTEL Explore the small town of Bernkastel today, taking in this charming town’s beautiful sights. Offering up some of the best scenery along the Moselle River, Bernkastel boasts beautiful buildings, and is watched over by the ruins of Landshut Castle. Enjoy time at leisure here to take in its medieval architecture and quaint setting. 

 

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS COCHEM AND IMPERIAL REICHSBURG Join us on our guided walking tour as we explore the pretty little Moselle town of Cochem. The old quarter is dominated by the late-Gothic imperial castle and is dotted with medieval squares and lovingly restored timber-framed houses – architectural gems typical of the Moselle region.  We see the market square, the baroque town hall, the Martinsbrunnen (a feature of the town's historical water supply), St. Martin's Church, the former Capuchin monastery (now an arts centre) and sections of the old town walls, including the town gates.  We then continue to the mighty Reichsburg Castle. The castle perches on a rock 100 metres above the town of Cochem. Originally dating from the year 1,000, from 1868 to 1877 it was completely reconstructed and, since then, it has become the most-visited monument in the valley of the River Moselle.  There are many impressive things to see inside the Castle, including the Knights' Hall, the Weapon Room, the Hunting Room and the medieval ladies' rooms. The castle is well-equipped with Renaissance and Baroque furniture, weapons, armours, crockery and all kinds of beautiful decorations, including mural paintings.   KOBLENZ GUIDED WALKING TOUR

Join us on a guided walking tour of Koblenz, which stretches across the Rhine and enjoys spectacular scenery. We’ll see many interesting sights here, including the city’s historical buildings and monuments.

MEDIEVAL BERNKASTEL & WINE DOCTOR According to Legend, back in the 14th century, the Elector of Trier – Boemund II fell seriously ill with fever during a stay at Landshut Castle. Remedies were prescribed with no effect, so an old winegrower came to see the Elector with a keg of his finest wine, declaring it to be the best medicine.  The Elector drank the wine and was miraculously cured. So join us and the Wine Doctor as we explore Bernkastel’s winding cobbled streets and half-timbered houses. We see the medieval Market Square, renaissance-style Town Hall, charming St Michael’s Fountain and Bear Fountain.  We head to Graacher Gate, the only remaining medieval town gate, Heinz’sche House -one of the oldest buildings in the town and of course the much photographed 'pointed house'. During the tour we enjoy a glass of the famous wine.     PANORAMIC COLOGNE AND CATHEDRAL

Join us as we explore this historical city! Cologne has strong Roman ties and is the fourth-largest city in Germany, with more than one million inhabitants. The city is located on both sides of the River Rhine and is home to the famous Kolner Dom (Cologne Cathedral). During World War II, the inner city of Cologne was completely destroyed and was then fully reconstructed in the 1950s.  With our expert guide, we see many of Cologne’s fascinating sights, including the ancient Roman city walls, which were the longest in Germany; the impressive medieval gates; and the twelve large Romanesque churches, which are located in the confined area within the boundaries of the medieval city walls. Many of Cologne's churches rank among the most important in Western Europe. We also see the world-famous 4711 – the original Eau de Cologne headquarters; the medieval Old City with its impressive town houses, dating back to the 14th century; and the historical Rathaus (City Hall).  We then continue to the world famous Cathedral (entrance included). We find out when construction began and why it took until the 19th century to complete. You will see the world-famous Gero-Crucifix of the 10th century and the medieval stained glass windows.  

SCENIC RHINE

Join us for a scenic drive today, as we travel from St Goar to Oberwesel. Admire the picturesque views during our journey! Sit back, relax and take in the amazing scenery as we travel, and discover these amazing towns along the way.