Moselle valley

The Moselle Valley is one of the most famous wine-growing regions in Germany and stretches from Trier to the mouth of the Rhine near Koblenz

The region is characterized by winding river bends, steep vineyards, and small, often very picturesque villages along the riverbanks. Highlights include the old towns of Alken and Beilstein and the Calmont via ferrata.

In addition to wine (Riesling is the primary variety grown here), the Moselle Valley also boasts a long history: the Romans already used the region for viticulture and trade, as evidenced today by buildings and archaeological sites.
The Moselle Valley is rich in castles—there are over 30 major castle complexes along the Moselle, as well as numerous smaller ruins.

In the Middle Ages, these castles secured trade routes along the river, collected tolls from passing ships, or were used by nobles as residences and administrative centers.

Sights in Moselle valley

Burg Eltz

castle highlight

kaʁstn Disk/Cat // CC BY-SA 3.0 de

Eltz Castle is one of the best-known and best-preserved castles in Germany. It is located 20 km north-east of Cochem, surrounded by forests, and was built in the 12th century. The architecture of the castle, which consists of several towers and a central residential building, is particularly fascinating. Over 30 generations of the Eltz family have lived in the castle to this day, and it is still managed by descendants. Visitors can explore the castle on a guided tour, which takes them through magnificent rooms, armories and a treasure chamber. The path to the castle leads through an idyllic valley, which makes a visit particularly charming.
Address: 56294 Wierschem Wierschem
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Burg Metternich

castle

Klaus Graf // CC BY-SA 2.5

Metternich Castle towers above the small Moselle village of Beilstein, 10 km south-east of Cochem, and offers an impressive view of the Moselle valley. Originally built in the 13th century, the hilltop castle was destroyed in 1689 during the Palatinate War of Succession, but is still well preserved as a ruin. Visitors can climb the castle tower and enjoy the panoramic view. There is also a small castle tavern where you can fortify yourself with regional dishes and a glass of Moselle wine after the climb. The castle can be reached from Beilstein via a short but steep footpath and is particularly popular with hikers and photographers.
Address: 56814 Beilstein Beilstein
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Altstadt Alken

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Historiograf // CC BY-SA 2.0

The old town of Alken is located directly on the Moselle and is characterized by half-timbered houses. Visitors can experience a small, traditional wine village here.
Address: 56332 Alken Alken
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Burg Thurant

castle

kaʁstn Disk/Cat // CC BY-SA 3.0 de

Thurant Castle is located above the Moselle, between Cochem and Koblenz, and was built in the 12th century. The castle was built as a fortification and offers a magnificent view of the Moselle and the surrounding countryside. The well-preserved towers, the battlements and the moat are particularly impressive. During the Middle Ages, Thurant Castle was an important point of defense for the Moselle valley. Today, visitors can tour the castle, take a walk on the towers and look out over the Moselle from one of the two towers. Thurant Castle is also used for events and hosts concerts and medieval markets in summer.
Address: 56332 Alken Alken
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Calmont Klettersteig

The via ferrata runs along the steepest vineyard in Europe. Secured passages lead through rocks and vineyards. Visitors experience a combination of sport and landscape here.
Address: 56814 Bremm Bremm
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Altstadt Beilstein

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Ernst Schopphoven // CC BY-SA 3.0

Beilstein is often described as one of the most beautiful villages on the Moselle. Narrow alleyways and historic buildings give the village a special atmosphere. Visitors experience an almost unchanged townscape here.
Address: Bachstraße, 56814 Beilstein Bachstraße, Beilstein
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