MOSELLE VALLEY

The Moselle River Valley is a region in north-eastern France, south-western Germany, and eastern Luxembourg, centered on the river valley formed by the Moselle. The Moselle is a quality white wine-producing region and has been so since the nineteenth century. It is also becoming a strong tourist destination due to its' reputation as a ruryl idyll with quaint, cobbled towns and storybook castles. I think some of the photos I took will show you why people travel to the Moselle Valley. We were fortunate to go there last week and avoid the large crowds during the summer when the area reaches its' peak season. But should you arrive in summer, you will be treated to oom-pah bands, dancing, festivals, and lots of colorful costumes. Oh, and plenty of delicious wine anytime of year!

There are no large towns in the part of the Moselle that we travelled to which is on the Luxembourg and German border. The castle above was taken in the small town of Cochem. You can't tell from my shot, but it sits on the top of a steep hill right on the edge of the Moselle River.

     Tiny villages tucked between steep vineyards dot the shores of the picturesque Moselle

      Medieval streets provide delightful scenes enjoyed from riverfront promenades.

We took our time driving along the river and whenever the scenery demanded we stopped, pulled off to the side or stopped at one of the many cafes along the way. To tell the truth, I recall stopping for a few glasses of white wine as well!
Castle upon a hill overlooking the village.

                  Promenades suitable for resting, biking, strolling, or photography.

                                          Bicyclist out for an afernoon ride

 

                              Small chapel along a bridge on the Moselle River

                                          Another castle along the valley.










This trip was a surprise from my husband over the past holiday week here in Germany. An added bonus was that we were able to escape the rainy weather back home in Munich. This is a part of Germany I never expected to see and after having been there, I can tell you that it is worth a return trip. My guess is during the grape harvest in the fall when all of the trees are turning golden yellow, orange and red. This time we plan to stay overnight at one of the small towns, preferrably Beilstein, the quaintest of Moselle towns, nicknamed the "Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle" because up until 1900 it was only accessable by boat. Today it is grape vines, charming inns, small alleys, and the beautiful reislings and chardonnays. In my opinion--heaven on earth