Rollin’ on the river: tips for a day on the Rhine

The powerful Rhine River once supported the Roman Empire. Today, its superb nature, wine and history are within easy reach; it’s just an hour’s drive from the KMC.

In the 12th century, the impressive monastery Kloster Eberbach was founded, ushering in a booming wine industry. Hildegard of Bingen (Bingen is a must see town located right in the middle of the Rhine) is widely known as one of the greatest thinkers of the Middle Ages. At the beginning of the 19th century the Rhine River hosted numerous famous gatherings of leaders in romantic literature, poetry and art.

The Rhine may be one of the most crucial rivers of European history, connecting ideas, commerce and development through the ages. It continues to be a quintessential stop for locals and tourists alike. Black slate vineyards cutting through jagged hills, trunks of historic castles and cute villages delight the sight.

The Rhine is immense. At 766 miles long, it is the longest river in Germany.

With so many options to explore, here are five tried and true Rhine River recommendations, and visiting guests will be pleased should you decide to escort them there.

Take a day trip to Rüdesheim. Even the drive to and from Rüdesheim cloaks you in romantic sensation. A winding, sparkling river zigzags the road, and one feels instantly amorous. Sitting at the Rhine gorge, right at the start of the UNESCO world heritage site, Rüdesheim is memory being born. Don’t miss a visit to the Niederwalddenkmal. Standing 125 feet tall, the Niederwald monument was completed in 1883 to commemorate the foundation of the German empire. It’s a spectacular sight, and it’s location offers some of the most spectacular views of the Rhine River below. In the spring or summer, bring along a picnic lunch then take an easy stroll down through the vineyards.

Within a few kilometers of Rüdesheim, famous vinters combine their passions with tradition when it comes to making wine. The Rhine River imparts the wines with subtle minerals from the slate in the river, giving it a crisp, clear finish. Many German wines are called “Rhine wines” because of how delicious they are. Some recommended vintners include Wegeler (for superior quality) and Weingut Adolf Störzel (for large groups).

Explore Burg Rheinstein. Castle Rheinstein is of the most intact castles on the Rhine, and this sight has an excellent museum, a delectable cafe, sweeping views and impressive flora and fauna. Visit in the morning, and then move onto a river cruise in the afternoon. For more information about the castle and guided tours, visit www.burg-rheinstein.de/en/index.php.

A river cruise is a can’t miss event. From Mainz to Koblenz, the 36 stretch of “Romantic Rhine” will leave you refreshed from the river air and awed by breathtaking sights. From early April through October, boats run daily in both directions from Mainz to Koblenz. Once on board, you can enjoy narration or just sit back with a bottle of wine and a picnic as you cruise along the river. Viewing the famous Lorelei rock is a pilgrimage all those living in the KMC shouldn’t miss. Legend tells how a lovely looking and sounding siren lured sailors to their deaths on the rock.

Walk the RheinSteig. For nature lovers and volksmarch enthusiasts, walk a section or the entire 320 kilometer path from Wiesbaden to Bonn. Impressive scenery, challenging terrain and easy to navigate, this hiking trail is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. This path is suitable for experienced hikers and also for those seeking shorter walks. The trail meanders through quiet woods and Rheingau vineyards and passes by numerous castles and fortifications in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. For more information, visit www.rheinsteig.de/en/der-rheinsteig/home.