Rising 100 meters (330 foot) above the scenic Moselle River, Reichsburg Cochem is a towering medieval period castle perched atop a hill. Originally, its purpose was to collect a toll from each passing shop, now it's serves as a popular tourist destination in the area. Its unique combination of neo-gothic architecture with remnants of Romanesque design stands testament to the many hands it changed over the centuries. Reichsburg Cochem also provides interesting tours for the whole family. Check out the tour timings on the website.
During the Cold War, Germany hoarded a lot of currency at a hidden location in Cochem. This secret bunker built by the Deutsche Bundesbank could also shelter 80 civilians in the event of a crisis and included a radio room, sleeping rooms, and several working rooms. Today, it functions as a major tourist attraction and a museum, offering tours by the hour. A tour of this fabled bunker with a knowledgeable guide is like a trip back in time. However, the timings vary according to season.
Established in the 1970s as a game park, Wild- & Freizeitpark Klotten has since been expanded to include exciting attractions over the years. When in Klotten, plan an adventure with your family at this exciting park that features rollercoasters, slides, and other fun rides. Experience an adrenaline rush with a thrilling fantasy ride and rumble down a steep white-water slide. Children can enjoy the special kids' rides and meet adorable animals at the wildlife park, which is home to coatis, parrots, alpacas, rabbits, and other animals. The park also has gastronomical facilities within the premises, making it a worthwhile trip with friends and family.
A fun place to be especially for children, Wild- und Erlebnispark Daun is a great choice for family outings. The park features a drive-through, allowing visitors to witness the natural beauty and wildlife which thrives here, along with a petting zoo and playground.
A beautiful representation of German Romanesque architecture, the Maria Laach Abbey is a Benedictine abbey that was established in the year 1093. Located on the shores of the picturesque Laacher Lake, its serene lakeside setting coupled with the various towers and turrets of the Abbey, lend it a fairy-tale fortress appeal. Several embellishments have been added over the years such as 16th-century murals, mosaics dating back to 1910 and stained glass windows from the 1950s.
At the confluence of Mosel and Rhine, Deutsches Eck is a headland that has been an integral part of German history during war times. Characterized by an equestrian statue that soars over the city, it is a monument honoring the first German Emperor William I. The original statue was inaugurated in 1897 and a refurbished statue was installed in 1993. A tribute to German unity, the headland is a popular tourist attraction today. Boat rides through the inland waterway of Mosel and Rhine are an ideal way to view the Deutsches Eck.
The WeinMuseum Schlagkamp is believed to be one of the biggest museums of its kind. The museum has over 10,000 interesting exhibits spanning across three levels. In the wine cellar, you will learn about the wine-making procedures and get to see a variety of barrels. The old Kelterhaus has a variety of interesting items related to wines, of course. In the old ballroom, you can enjoy a glass of premium wine. Children are welcomed to the museum as well and are served grape juice instead of the wines.
Burg Namedy is an event venue like no other. Originally a 14th-century moated castle, the beautifully rustic, timeless structure now serves as an event venue for locals and tourists alike. It caters to many events such as corporate parties, wedding ceremonies, film sets, musical events, private celebrations, cultural festivals, and more. The castle has passed a few hands before finally being in the possession of the Hohenzollern dynasty since the early 1900s. Besides being a splendid event destination, the historic landmark is also home to a park that showcases spectacular works by local artists.
Construction on the impressive Eltz Castle began some time in the 9th-Century. Continued up through the 11th-Century, when the main portion of the castle was built; this structure can still be seen today. Eltz Castle was the home of Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa in the 12th Century. Following a family feud in the 13th Century, the castle came to be known as 'Ganerbenburg' for housing several lineages in its many rooms, and not just the royal family alone. Encompassed by the Elzbach River, it is characterized by its eight towers. A tour of the Eltz Castle gives visitors a glimpse of the courtyard, treasury, armor room, kitchen and the picturesque grounds. The castle was featured on the 500 Deutsche Mark note of Germany.
Located on the outskirts of Schneppenbach, Schmidtburg is an old historic castle dating back to the 10th Century, which today lies in ruins of its former glory. Perched on a small hilltop, is surrounded by dense forests and overlooks the valley of Hahnenbach below which made it a perfect place for a military lookout. It was later occupied by tribe strongholds, town council offices and knights, and then destroyed by the French in 1688. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and sure to delight any history enthusiast.
A beautiful representation of German Romanesque architecture, the Maria Laach Abbey is a Benedictine abbey that was established in the year 1093. Located on the shores of the picturesque Laacher Lake, its serene lakeside setting coupled with the various towers and turrets of the Abbey, lend it a fairy-tale fortress appeal. Several embellishments have been added over the years such as 16th-century murals, mosaics dating back to 1910 and stained glass windows from the 1950s.