Rhine Valley

travel  wonder in Germany

Why the

Rhine Valley

is special

The upper-middle Rhine Valley is dotted with medieval castles and villages - and its tall, steep hillsides are blanketed with forests and vineyards. It's a romantic landscape.

Tips & insights on

the Rhine Valley

The Rhine River is quite long, but the 65 kilometer (40 mile) stretch between the towns of Rudesheim (or Bingen) to Koblenz is its sightseeing splendor. This section boasts the world's densest concentration of medieval castles.

Dozens of castles were built because the Rhine River was (and continues to be) a major Central European trade route. Feudal rulers needed castles to protect their territory.

The most famous Rhine Valley landmark is the 130 meter (430 foot) high Lorelei rock. Legend tells us that a beautiful siren sat on top and sang. When sailors riveted their eyes on her rather than on the treacherous current and rocks below, they shipwrecked their boats and drowned.

Popular Rhine Valley castles include Burg Rheinfels, Burg Katz, Marksburg and Schloss Stolzenfels. Popular villages along the route include Bacharach and St. Goar.

Just upriver from Rudesheim is the Rheingau, home of many celebrated sun-kissed vineyards.

The Rhine Valley is the venue of one of the world's most popular river cruises.

View my other gold,

silver & bronze medal

winners in Germany

My German

phrase guide

for travelers

What every visitor should know.

German cuisine

I hope your Germany travel dreams come true - and that 

my Rhine Valley page helps you enjoy your vacation, tour or trip

©2008 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications