Rhine Walking: Mainz - Koblenz

Embark on a scenic boat ride from Biebrich Palace in Wiesbaden to Schierstein Harbour, gliding along the serene Rhine riverbanks. Journey through a nature reserve and bird retreat area into the historic wine village of Walluf. Continue through lush vineyards and remote woodlands to the nature monument 'Grauer Stein.' Conclude your day in the spa town of Schlangenbad, nestled in the Taunus region. Stay at the Residenz & Hotel am Kurpark (or similar) for a restful night.

Traverse forest paths and meadows to the castle ruin of Scharfenstein, then continue through vineyards to the impressive Eberbach Monastery. This renowned 12th-century movie backdrop is a must-see. Proceed into the picturesque wine village of Oestrich-Winkel, where you can unwind with a glass of local wine. Rest at the Ruthmann Hotel (or similar) for the night.

Walk along the 'Riesling' path to the renowned vineyard estate, Palace Vollrads. Continue through light broadleaf woodlands to the pilgrimage destination of Marienthal Monastery. Traverse the Blaubach valley and vine areas to reach the famous St. Hildegard Abbey. Conclude your day in the ancient vintner town of Rüdesheim, filled with quaint wine taverns and historic half-timbered houses. Stay at the Altdeutsche Weinstube (or similar) for a cozy evening.

Ascend the mountain chains via cable car to the Middle Rhine Valley, where breathtaking panoramas await. Pass the historic Niederwald Hunting Lodge and hike to Assmannshausen, famous for its exquisite red wines and stunning half-timbered houses. Conclude your day in Lorch, where more half-timbered architecture and excellent wines await. Stay at Im Schulhaus (or similar) for a comfortable night.

Explore diverse paths and mountain chains with stunning panoramas over the Rhine Valley. Visit the historic shipping town of Kaub or venture via the mountain chains to Dörscheid. Discover the castle ruin Nollig, Gutenfels Castle, and the highlight of the day, the impressive toll-castle Pfalzgrafenstein, situated on an island in the Rhine. Stay at Loreleyhotel Fetz (or similar) for a restful night.

Delve into the heart of the Middle Rhine Valley, where serpentine tracks, fabulous views, and legendary castles await. Visit the iconic Loreley Rock and enjoy the three-castle view of Katz Castle, Maus Castle, and Rheinfels Castle. This crowning finale leads you to St. Goarshausen, where you can relax at Hotel Colonius (or similar) for the night.

Traverse unspoilt tracks and breathtaking scenery, passing defiant castles while crossing the Filsener Lay, one of the region's most beautiful nature reserves. Liebenstein Castle and Sterrenberg Castle, known as the 'hostile brothers,' accompany you along the way. Enjoy a night at Anker (or similar) in the wine-growing parish.

Journey along the route to Braubach, encountering Liebeneck Castle, the Dinkelhold Mills, and the impressive Marksburg Castle. Take time to explore this complete extant castle. The wine-growing village of Braubach welcomes you with its town wall and numerous half-timbered buildings. Stay at Maaß (or similar) for a cozy evening.

Embark on the final stage of your journey, filled with highlights such as castles, nature reserves, and the blooming Bienhorn Valley. Experience the adventurous Ruppertsklamm Ravine and cross the Rhine via the impressive Pfaffendorfer Brücke. Conclude your week of hiking at the Deutsches Eck in Koblenz. Rest at Brenner (or similar) for your final night.