Perched atop a green hill which towers over a picturesque lake, Rheinstein Castle is a dazzling portrait of medieval charm and splendor, with every nook and cranny bearing traces of its historical lineage. Nestled amid thick and verdant foliage, the splendid architectural specimen features exposed brickwork, a portcullis and a drawbridge, with the main structure being flanked by impressive towers surrounded by a garden abundant in grapevine. The interior is as much a delight as the exterior; expansive chambers are adorned in elegant decor which accentuates their old-school nuances, weaving a striking tapestry for awed tourists to admire. Traipse through the hallways as you absorb a wealth of information afforded by insightful displays or make a pit stop at the on-site restaurant to recharge and replenish your strength. The castle also incorporates other attractions like the elaborately carved chapel and a magnificent room named the Knight's Hall which is hailed for its resplendent stained glass windows.
This massive, medieval style church is the grandest attraction in the town of Boppard. Beneath the Severus church (12th century) one can visit the remains of a Roman baths. With tall, dark spices and ivory walls, the church inspires awe and wonder. Walk between the pews and attend the fascinating tour of this marvel.
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.
A former monastery which dates back to the 12th Century, Kloster Eberbach is now a thriving and flourishing winery. The former Cistercian monastery is considered to be one of the most significant architectural sites due to its exemplary Romanesque and early Gothic façade. Wine tasting sessions and tours of the premises are a window into the monastery's past and its viticulture tradition.
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.
A popular landmark, Limburg Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral dedicated to Saint George with origins rooted in the 10th century. The present Romanesque building is thought to have been constructed during the early 12th or 13th century, though the actual date of construction is unknown. The church building features imposing twin-tower facades and seven striking spires, and the interiors are decorated with spectacular Evangelist rosettes, pointed and blind arches, archivolts and glass windows.
Oberwesel's medieval atmosphere is apparent when you enter the city, with several of its original 21 towers and the impressive Schönburg Castle peeking through its charming Middle Rhein townscape. Apart from these renowned landmarks, a trip to Oberwesel also calls for a visit to the Gothic Liebfrauenkirche church, a marvelous structure replete with a gilded altar and stained-glass windows, which also affords stunning views of the river. The town center or Altstadt is a delight in itself, a picturesque medieval core frozen in time. Also take some time out to explore Oberwesel's local market for souvenirs and handicrafts.
There was initially a large hospital and church here, which was eventually destroyed in the Palatinate War in the 17th century. The choir of the original church was then turned into this beautiful chapel, and was given a Baroque renovation. The domed roof and massive windows are a sight to behold, making Wernerkapelle worth a visit.
Situated in the city of Oberwesel, Schönburg is an elaborately-built castle that dates back to 911 CE. It was owned by the Dukes of Schönburg for hundreds of years beginning in the 12th Century. The castle remained in their family till it was burnt down by French troops in 1689. After restorations in the 19th Century, the castle was reopened as a hotel. The hotel offers a lavish setting for a memorable holiday with rooms and suites featuring period furnishings and decor. Beautiful views of the Rhine Valley can be seen from some of the hotel rooms. There is a restaurant that serves delicious authentic cuisine as well.
Straddling the Rhine, Kaub is a scenic town surrounded by verdant locales and low-lying hills draped in vivid greenery. Its perfectly landscaped terrain is dotted with a series of medieval structures and fortifications, portraying a striking blend between nature and historic vestiges. Burg Pfalzgrafenstein, widely considered as the most prominent feature of the town, occupies an elevated position on the river, located on a rock. Burg Gutenfels and the Blüchermuseum are some other landmarks.
Burg Pfalzgrafenstein or Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, or simply the Pfalz, is a historic toll collecting station. In administration since the 14th Century, tolls ceased in 1867, but the castle retained its unique architecture. Built on the Falkenau island over the Rhine, its dimensions match that of the island. A pentagonal tower, baroque tower top, turrets and gun bastions were added over the centuries. A short ferry ride from the Kaub shore takes visitors to this present day museum.
Nestled along the snaking Rhine river, Sankt Goar combines gorgeous natural vistas with some historic brilliance. Burg Rheinfels, which is situated on a small hill, is a must visit for it is one of the most important castle ruins in the country, its ramparts and towers still standing strong. The black spire of the Collegiate Church matches with the shingled roof of the houses, an odd but pleasing contrast with the steely waters of the Rhine.