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We hiked up to the old monastery and enjoyed the view with a refreshing beer at the cafe. The active and scenic excursion took us cycling along the Moselle past more steep vineyards. We saw immediately why it’s known as the “Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle.” It is both stunningly beautiful and blissfully sleepy. Does cruising along a quiet river flanked with vineyards and wineries and stopping at lesser-known, picturesque towns appeal to you? An onboard adventure host leads small-group cycling tours on the trail beside the river (the ship carries 14 bikes, plus two e-bikes), and can also provide energetic passengers with Nordic walking sticks, binoculars and Fitbits.
PORT EXCURSION
Or wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, adorned with charming squares and colorful buildings, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the city. From strolling through vineyards to visiting historical landmarks to bicycling alongside the boat to the next port, every moment is a chance to explore a new destination and all the opportunities that river cruising offers. On the journey back in the direction of Cologne, along the Rhenish Massif and the lush vineyards, we will make a stop in Koblenz, where you can travel up to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress with the cableway. The former site of the German Federal Garden Show (2011) invites visitors to take a romantic stroll; there are a few rarities ready and waiting for plant enthusiasts. Enjoy the colourful variety of flowers and while away the evening with cocktails and entertainment aboard our ship. Its history dates back over 2,000 years, making it one of Germany’s oldest cities – and one of its most picturesque, with a wealth of sights and cultural attractions.
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About Avalon Waterways
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. There is a former monastery-turned-catholic-church and a castle sitting high behind the town offering spectacular views.
Discover the legendary Rhine & Moselle
Amsterdam is a vibrant blend of the historic and the contemporary, from its medieval core and 17th-century canals to the rich cosmopolitan life of a 21st-century European metropolis. I love overview tours of a city, especially if I am only there for a short time—it’s a great way to see a lot and determine if you want to go back in the future. That’s why I signed up for the Highlights of Koblenz tour when Avalon Waterways ported for a few hours in the German city on the Rhine river. You can explore the historic heart at the Deutsches Eck, and take in the breathtaking views from the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, accessible by a scenic cable car ride.
This is where the Rhine and the Moselle converge and it’s known as the German Corner (Deutsches Eck). At this corner is an impressive memorial to Kaiser Wilhelm I and it’s also the site for festivals and events. Finding the old stone gates, strolling the Moselle Promenade, shopping for souvenirs, riding the Wine Express Train or taking the cable car up Pinner Kreuz mountain are other things to do in Cochem. We were enthralled with its colorful timber-framed overhanging buildings, medieval clock towers and fountains. Our favorite sights in Trier were the Cathedral of St Peter & Church of Our Lady and the city’s heart of Hauptmarkt (Main Market).
Both cruises allow for some sightseeing at the destination before returning. Longer cruises such as Cochem to Koblenz are usually done only once or twice a week while shorter cruises may depart several times per day. Cochem has the highest number of options, although cruising in the region between Bernkastel-Kues and Traben-Trarbach is probably the most spectacular. Trier, Germany's oldest city, is next, followed by Traben-Trarbach, gateway to Luxembourg. From there, riverboats head back to Koblenz via Cochem, with side trips to the vineyards of Winningen and medieval Lahneck Castle.
This is mostly due to stops in hot spots like Budapest, Vienna and Amsterdam. A Moselle River Cruise with Emerald will take you to quiet, quaint German towns surrounded by the secenry of vineyards, wineries and castles. Dining options include the main Panorama Dining Room and the more casual Panorama Bistro, which also offers some outdoor tables. Culinary options include “Avalon Fresh” heart-healthy menu items, plus daily local specialties and familiar salmon, chicken and steak dishes.
You can delve into Cochem’s intriguing history by exploring the Bundesbank Bunker, an underground facility once used by the German Federal Bank. And don’t miss the Senfmuehle, the historic Mustard Mill, where you can indulge in the flavors of traditional mustard and learn about its production. The SPA & wellness area and the fitness centre on board provide relaxation after the excitement of the previous days. Treat yourself to a soothing massage or go in the sauna with a view of the green vineyard. In the morning, you can watch fascinating wafts of mist which form in the river valley like a fairy tale and dance in the rising sun.
May to September are generally the warmest months for a Moselle cruise, with peak temps in July and August when riverside towns like Traben-Trarbach, Bernkastel and Winningen hold their annual wine festivals. If you have never done a European river cruise, the Moselle Valley may not be at the top of your list. The Emerald excursion from Koblenz was a visit to the 12th-century Marksburg Castle. This magnificent castle is the only one on the Rhine that was never destroyed. There were some additions in the 17th and 18th centuries but otherwise, it remains as it was built over 1,000 years ago.
For nearly a century the castle has been the heart of a charitable foundation whose main mission includes providing a home for unmarried aristocratic ladies without means in their golden years. Frequently used as a location for movies and TV shows, the Schloss provides an elegant setting for Tauck's exclusive cocktail reception and dinner, hosted by a member of the family. Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. If you prefer a quieter experience, you can opt for activities like getting lost in a book at their Club Lounge Library or indulging in a cozy movie night with your significant other. The ship caters to different preferences, providing the perfect balance between exciting social interactions and peaceful moments of relaxation. Even when you’re not on an excursion, there’s never a dull moment aboard Avalon Waterways as they offer a diverse range of activities to keep everyone engaged and entertained.
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His astronomical instruments and apparatus, including the world's oldest celestial sphere, can be seen in the hospital library. Most main attractions stay open until early November, so this is also a good time to see the sights without so many crowds. And both Boppard and Piesport have autumn wine festivals early in October, so pick the right itinerary and you won't miss out. You will also come away with the joyous feeling of having explored a little more off the beaten path. Plus, the realization that there is more to see in Germany than the vibrant cities of Berlin and Munich or the cute towns of Bavaria. We had a fabulous guide for our tour who kept us entertained and educated with tales of the ancient monastery both then and now.
The classic cruise from Cochem to the confluence with the Rhine in Koblenz is done only on Fridays. Cruising time is around four hours each way with more than two hours allowed for sightseeing before turning back. A few times per week, it is possible to cruise upriver from Cochem to Traben-Trarbach — around four hours each way. An alternative is a cruise from Zell to Cochem — three hours each way.
Following are the stops we made on our Rhine & Moselle River Cruise. Take note that cruises also run in the opposite direction and there is also a chance of slight changes due to water height and port traffic. And Avalon isn’t the only line introducing travelers to this tranquil body of water.
You can have take a break to rest in one of the romantic vineyards and taste the wines that are famous all over the country. This will also take care of any souvenirs for your loved ones at home. A river winding through a narrow valley, lined on both sides by idyllic towns, majestic castles, enchanting palaces and beautiful vineyards - the Moselle is undoubtedly one of the most charming river landscapes in all of Europe. Like no other river, you can enjoy a unique blend of history, architecture, culture and culinary delights on a cruise on the Moselle.
From Bernkastel, we glided slowly southwest along the winding Moselle River toward our next stop of Trier. We passed lovely scenery along the way, including impossibly steep vineyards. This was the beginning of our unexpected love affair with the gorgeous Moselle Valley. This reflects the fact that they are actually twin towns on opposite sides of the Moselle River.
Whether you're an epicurean, a nature lover, or an art enthusiast, our selection of experiences will open up new perspectives on every voyage. Be the first to receive all news on our cruise programs, AMADEUS vessels, special deals and upcoming events. Trier, Germany's oldest city, offers history reaching back thousands of years.
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