Overview:  The Rhine River is one of the longest and most important rivers in Europe at 1,320 km (820 mi) long.  The Middle Rhine is popularly known as the Romantic Rhine Valley because of the scenic views and the many castles and ruins along the riverbanks. The micro-climate of the Middle Rhine is responsible for wonderful wines and various fruit products produced in the region. This navigable river has long been a focus of international attention and will attract you, too, with its beauty.

Depending on the season and the group we will enjoy one of the following popular sites: cable car to the Niederwald Monument (weather permitting), Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum, or Medieval Torture Museum.  Each month we will also tour one of the castles listed below.

Burg Reichenstein:  One of the oldest castles on the Rhine, this 11^th century robber knight’s castle has been destroyed and rebuilt at least three times.  Perched on a rocky ridge, its mighty wall and defensive towers contributed to the strength of its position on the Rhine.  Valuable period furniture and an extensive collection of arms and armor are on display. Snacks and beverages (optional) round out your visit.

Burg Rheinstein:  This privately owned castle dates from the  Middle Ages, with many additions and restorations.  A self-guided tour leads you through rooms with Gothic frescoes, stained glass from the 14^th to 16^th centuries, antique furniture and a Neogothic chapel.  Snacks and beverages (optional) are available from the café.

Itinerary:  From the points of origin, travel directly to the Rhine River for the castle tour.

After the castle tour (included), travel by bus to the Rhine River to board the ship.  Then enjoy a cruise through the most scenic part of the Rhine Valley, with explanations in English of the historic sites and castles. 

Go ashore and meet the bus to continue a picturesque ride to the historic restaurant in Rüdesheim.  Enjoy a typical German lunch (included), followed by a wine tasting of some of the famous “Rheingau” wines (included).  Have an opportunity to purchase some wines right then.

Following lunch, visit Rüdesheim, the best known town along the Rhine, and walk through the world-famous “Drosselgass”. During the summer and Advent program, take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument with a great view overlooking the Rhine River valley.  In the winter, the tour visits either the Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum or the Medieval Torture Museum.

Return to the point of origin at approximately 7 p.m.