Exploring the romantic river landscapes of Germany along the Moselle is a delightful experience, especially with a combination of bike excursions and a relaxing river cruise. The journey begins in Koblenz and meanders through picturesque wine villages, steep vineyard slopes, and past imposing castles and monasteries. Each bend of the river reveals a new panorama, inviting you to pause and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings.
The carefully selected cycle routes offer a unique perspective, allowing you to truly appreciate the cultural and natural landscapes along the Moselle. After each day of cycling, you'll return to the comfort of your cruise ship, where your cabin awaits. There's no better way to unwind than to relax in your cabin and enjoy the scenic views of the Moselle and Rhine rivers passing by.
With terranova's successful concept combining river cruises and e-bike excursions, you'll have the opportunity to experience the best of both worlds. Whether you're cycling through vineyards or savoring dinner in the on-board restaurant, every moment promises to be memorable. Explore the Moselle at its finest and immerse yourself in its rich landscape and culture on this exceptional bike and boat tour.
Highlights
- Original vineyard hike and wine tasting by renowned winemakers
- Picturesque landscapes in the romantic Moselle valley, in the Eifel and in the Hunsrück
- World cultural heritage on tours in Cologne and Trier
- Visit of Bernkastel Kues
- Accommodations on the Stella, state of the art cruise ship
- Stress-free battery-assisted cycling with a support vehicle
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DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN COLOGNE
Starting your tour in Cologne offers a glimpse into the rich history of this ancient city. From its Roman origins to its flourishing during the Middle Ages, Cologne's architectural marvels tell the tale of its past. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Cologne Cathedral, whose construction spanned centuries. Initiated in 1248, this monumental structure, dedicated to the Three Kings, stood as a testament to Cologne's spiritual significance. Despite financial setbacks, its completion in 1880 under the patronage of the Prussian king solidified its status as one of Europe's most revered pilgrimage sites.
Beyond its imposing exterior, the cathedral's interior showcases remarkable craftsmanship and artistry. From intricately carved choir stalls to Stefan Lochner's masterful altarpiece, every detail reflects the city's rich cultural heritage. The 19th-century mosaics add to the cathedral's allure, offering visitors a glimpse into its enduring legacy.
After exploring Cologne's architectural treasures, you'll embark on the MV (motor vessel) SILVA, where you'll settle into your cabins before dinner. As the ship sets sail upstream towards Cochem, you'll have the opportunity to unwind and soak in the serene beauty of the Rhine River. With each passing moment, you'll be one step closer to discovering the enchanting landscapes and charming towns that await along the journey.
Dinner and 1st night on board.
Please note: For special events in Cologne Cathedral, a visit is not possible on the day of arrival. In such a special case, we will only visit Cologne Cathedral on the 6th day of travel before your departure.
DAY 2: FIRST GREETING TO THE GREEN VINE SLOPES OF THE MOSEL 40 km
The morning in Cochem unveils the grandeur of its castle, a towering sentinel overlooking the picturesque river valley. Your cycling adventure begins right from the ship, setting a leisurely pace toward Zell (Mosel). As you pedal through verdant vineyards, the scenery sets the perfect mood for the days ahead. Following the meandering bends of the river, you'll encounter the charming village of Beilstein, its quaint allure enhanced by the ruins of Metternich Castle perched atop.
Continuing your journey, you'll encounter the awe-inspiring Moselle slope of the Bremmer Calmont, known as the steepest single vineyard in Europe. Here, the prized Riesling grapes thrive on the slate slopes, a testament to the region's winemaking heritage. Witnessing the manual labor and muscle power required by winemakers for centuries, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for their craft.
After a delightful picnic lunch amidst this idyllic landscape, you'll effortlessly glide along the river's course on your e-bike, arriving in Reil by afternoon. Here, a friendly winemaker awaits, ready to share insights into his daily work and treat you to a wine tasting experience. As the day draws to a close, your tour guides will accompany you back to the ship in Cochem via a terranova bus.
Savor the tranquility of the evening as the SILVA gracefully navigates the river toward Bernkastel-Kues, basking in the golden glow of the setting sun. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner onboard, relishing the enchanting ambiance of the river as it unfolds before you.
DAY 3: HOLY NICHOLAS & THE MAARE-MOSEL CYCLING TRAIL 58 km
Today begins with a delightful stroll through the charming streets of Bernkastel-Kues, where you'll have the opportunity to learn about Nicolaus Cusanus (von Kues). This medieval church philosopher was truly ahead of his time, challenging the Ptolemaic worldview long before Copernicus, and even serving as the Pope's deputy.
Cusanus pondered the timeless question of who grants individuals the authority to rule over others, considering that all people are inherently free by nature. His response, still relevant today, advocates for laws enacted by those who are subject to them, or by the majority elected by those under the law. He believed that every individual should have a say in the laws that govern them, emphasizing the importance of collective approval.
Afterwards, you'll embark on a bus journey to Daun in the Eifel region, where your cycling adventure begins. The Maare-Moselle cycle path awaits, offering one of the most scenic rail-trails in Germany. Following the disused railway route, the Daun cycle path winds through the volcanic hills of the Vulkaneifel, traversing viaducts and passing through lengthy tunnels before descending back to the Moselle.
As you transition from the volcanic landscapes of the Eifel to the vineyard-covered hillsides of the Middle Moselle, you'll witness winemakers ascending steep slopes akin to mountaineers. At the lunch picnic, a moment of gratitude is owed to the dry Riesling, a fitting reward for the day's explorations.
DAY 4: RUWER, ROMAN VILLAS & TRIERS IMPERIAL GLANZ 39 km
In the morning, the SILVA docks in a quaint wine village just outside of Trier, where you'll have the chance to explore the fascinating remains of a Roman villa. These villas, nestled in the picturesque landscape, served as retreats for the Romans seeking respite from the bustling city life.
Following a scenic stretch along the meandering Moselle, you'll arrive at the confluence of the Moselle and the charming Ruwer river. Here, you'll embark on a journey through the verdant Ruwer valley, tracing the path of an ancient railway line. The Ruwer river, known for its lively waters, has been harnessed for its power since Roman times, notably supplying water to ancient Trier through the Roman Ruwer aqueduct.
During a well-deserved lunch picnic, your tour guide will regale you with tales of Trier, a historic university town with a rich cultural heritage. After your break, the route ascends into the heart of Roman Trier, offering breathtaking views of the city below. Once you arrive, you'll be immersed in imperial grandeur, as Trier was once the seat of Roman emperors and the capital of the Gallic province.
As you explore the city on a guided tour, you'll be awestruck by the remnants of its illustrious past, with ancient monuments and architectural marvels bearing witness to its former glory.
DAY 5: ALONG THE TERRASSENMOSEL TO THE GERMAN CORNER 30 km
As you continue along the Moselle, the landscape remains remarkably flat, flanked by ancient wine terraces and medieval castles that dot the picturesque countryside. The vineyards, particularly steep along the Lower Moselle, benefit from what wine connoisseurs call the "equator effect." This phenomenon amplifies the intensity of the sun's radiation, creating conditions akin to locations much farther south. In the heart of the Lower Moselle, this effect manifests in sun temperatures that support an almost Mediterranean flora and fauna.
Your journey brings you to the convergence of the Moselle and Rhine rivers at the Deutsches Eck. Here, a monumental equestrian statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I stands proudly, erected in 1897 as a symbol of patriotic Rhine romanticism. Your guide will provide insights into the significance of this iconic landmark, steeped in history and symbolism.
Before you gather for the last evening on board, you'll have the opportunity to explore Koblenz further. Even years after the Federal Horticultural Show, the city remains vibrant and colorful, with the legacy of the garden show transforming its landscape. The romantic palace garden, once dormant, now blooms anew, a testament to the enduring beauty of Koblenz.
Enjoy a final dinner onboard, reflecting on the memories made and the beauty of the Moselle River landscape.
DAY 6: DEPARTURE FROM COLOGNEAs your cruise comes to an end, disembarkation is scheduled for around 9 a.m., allowing you ample time to begin your journey home by train or car.
Consider extending your stay in Cologne for another night or two to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this fascinating city. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Cologne offers a wealth of experiences to explore. Whether you're interested in visiting its iconic landmarks, exploring its charming neighborhoods, or indulging in its culinary delights, there's plenty to see and do in Cologne.
By extending your stay, you can make the most of your time in this captivating city, creating lasting memories before returning home.
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It's important to note that we reserve the right to make changes to the timetable and program of our journeys. Factors such as high and low tides, maintenance work, and waiting times at locks and bridges may necessitate adjustments to the itinerary at short notice. While we strive to provide a seamless experience, occasional changes may be required.
In rare instances of high or low tide or force majeure situations, parts of the route may need to be covered by alternative transportation such as bus or train. In exceptional cases, hotel accommodation may also be necessary. Rest assured, our priority is to ensure the safety and comfort of our guests while providing an enjoyable and memorable journey. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in such circumstances.
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E-BIKE TRIP - ROUTE ASSESSMENT: The cycling route is a total of 167 km. The bike routes are not short, but with a few exceptions run on paved and car-free bike paths! They usually follow without ascents along the rivers or on old railway lines. On the Moselle and Ruwer as well as on the Maare-Mosel cycle path through the Eifel, cycling is a carefree pleasure.
