Romantic Rhine & Moselle with Rhine in Flames

Day 1

After early pick ups we head south to Dover for our channel crossing to France and onwards to the Rhine Valley. We arrive at our family run hotel in time for a late evening dinner.

Day 2

Today we include an excursion to KOBLENZ on the JULY departure, famed for the mighty Ehrenbrietstein Fortress and situated at 'Deutsches Eck' or German Corner, the confluence of the Rhine & the Mosel. With an abundance of cultural monuments and historic buildings, its cosy lanes and narrow alleyways are combined with the relaxed and happy atmosphere of its squares and river promenades.

Alternatively, we visit the picturesque 'wine town' of RUDESHEIM on the AUGUST departure, where will find historic half-timbered houses and the famous Drosselgasse street in the heart of the old town which is a magnet for tourists. If you're feeling adventurous, you may also like to take the opportunity take the cable car which 'flies' over the vineyards up to the imposing Niederwald Monument for magnificent birds eye views of the Rhine.

Day 3

Today we have a full day excursion to Cologne, with its historic old town and many shops, cafes and restaurants. Don't miss a visit to the world famous twin-steepled gothic cathedral which dominates the skyline, enjoy a stroll along the riverside promenade, or for shopping, visit the pedestrianised Schildergasse.

Day 4

A full day excursion takes us to the traditional German town of Cochem considered one of the prettiest towns in Germany. Located in one of the most romantic parts of the Moselle Valley and situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is dominated by the ancient and mighty Reichsburg Castle, dramatically perched on a hillside overlooking the town.

Day 5

After a leisurely breakfast the day is free to spend as you wish before an early dinner at the hotel following which we head to RUDESHEIM IN JULY or KOBLENZ IN AUGUST for the wonderful Rhine in Flames spectacular. A procession of ships decorated with coloured lights provide a magnficent sight as they majestically glide along the river in the darkness and a grand musically synchronised firework display magically illuminates the surrounding mountains and night sky. It will be a late return to the hotel after the event.

Day 6

After breakfast the day is at leisure to spend as you wish in the charming resort of Kamp Bornhofen, well known throughout Germany for its famous pilgrimage church and monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary. You may like to hop on board one of the Rhine river cruises which depart within walking distance of the hotel in Kamp Bornhofen and sail downstream passing hill-top castles, picturesque towns and vine-clad slopes towards the famous Loreley Rock, providing the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the region from a different angle.

Day 7

Sadly we have to say ‘auf weidersein’ to our German hosts and begin our journey back to Calais for our crossing to the UK and home.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner