Lesser-known Fairy Tale Towns in Germany
Bernkastel-Kues
Nestled amidst the enchanting hills and vineyards of the Middle Moselle Valley, Bernkastel-Kues is a charming town that seems to have stepped right out of a storybook.
With its picturesque half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and romantic riverfront, Bernkastel-Kues exudes a timeless charm that has captivated visitors for centuries.
Things to do 🧭
Venture beyond the town center and explore the surrounding countryside. Hike up to Burg Landshut, a castle ruins offering panoramic views of the town. Or you can go on wine-tasting tour to Bernkasteler Doctorberg, the once most expensive vineyard in the world.
For nature lovers, step beyond the town and hike along the meandering Moselle River. There are hiking trails winding through the countryside, offering panoramic views of the verdant hills and vineyards that line its banks, and opportunities to connect with nature. Or, rent a bicycle and pedal along the scenic Moselle Cycle Path, taking in the picturesque villages and wineries that dot the landscape.
What to Eat 🍴
For a taste of local cuisine, try the Himmel und Erde (heaven and earth), a hearty dish of mashed potatoes, fried apples, and blood sausage. Or, for a lighter option, savor a Flammkuchen, a thin pastry topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.
Also, keep an eye out for the many weinstuben (wine bars) and restaurants that line the streets, inviting you to savor the region's renowned Riesling wines and hearty local fare.
Recommended Place to Stay 🛏️
Located in the historic old town and within walking distance to the historic marketplace, this family-run guest house offers charming accommodation in the heart of the Medieval town of Bernkastel-Kues.
It is also just a 10-minute walk from the Burg Landshut castle ruins.
Bacharach
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Gorge, the charming town of Bacharach stands as a testament to Germany's rich history and captivating beauty. With its half-timbered houses lining cobblestone streets, vineyards stretching across the hills, and a majestic castle perched atop a hill overlooking the town, Bacharach exudes a fairytale-like atmosphere that has enchanted travelers for centuries.
Things to do 🧭
The town's medieval charm is evident in its well-preserved architecture, with half-timbered houses dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries adorning the narrow streets. Take a leisurely stroll along the Marktplatz, the town's central square, and admire the stunning façades of the Rathaus (town hall) and St. Peter Church.
No visit to Bacharach is complete without ascending to the ruins of the 12th-century Burg Stahleck, which proudly overlooks the town. As you climb the winding path up to the castle, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Rhine River, the surrounding vineyards, and the town itself.
Bacharach has many well-preserved historic watchtowers, and one of the fantastic way of appreciating the surreal quaintness of beautiful town is from one of the historic watchtowers, the Postenturm (Post Tower). It is a short uphill walk through the vineyards.
Don't forget to explore the Wernerskapelle, a Gothic chapel nestled within the castle grounds, offering a glimpse into the town's religious heritage.
What to Eat 🍴
Sample the region's famous Riesling wines, produced from the vineyards that blanket the surrounding hills. For a hearty meal, try the local specialty, Bacharacher Schnitzel, a succulent pork cutlet served with a creamy mushroom sauce. And for a sweet treat, indulge in Bacharacher Spitzerle, a traditional almond pastry that melts in your mouth.
Recommended Place to Stay 🛏️
Beautiful hotel in a fantastic location within walking distance to the heart of the Old Town.
Oberwesel
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, Oberwesel stands as a charming testament to Germany's rich history and enduring beauty. This enchanting town, with its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and towering castles, offers visitors a glimpse into a bygone era, inviting them to step back in time and experience the magic of medieval Germany.
Things to do 🧭
Walking through Oberwesel is like stepping back in time. The town's medieval core, encircled by a largely intact defensive wall, is a treasure trove of architectural gems. Half-timbered houses adorned with flower-filled balconies line cobblestone streets, while the imposing Schönburg Castle, perched atop a hill, dominates the skyline. The town's 16 towers, remnants of its medieval fortifications, stand as silent sentinels, guarding the town's rich heritage.
For a glimpse into the town's past, visit the Oberwesel City Museum, housed in a 16th-century building. Exhibits chronicle the town's history, from its Roman origins to its role as a trading center during the Middle Ages.
For nature lovers, embark on a scenic hike along the Rheinsteig, a renowned hiking trail that winds through the valley's vineyards and forests, offering breathtaking views of Oberwesel and the surrounding countryside. Or, you can take a leisurely boat cruise on the Rhine River, passing by picturesque castles and villages. The serene atmosphere and stunning scenery make it an unforgettable experience.
What to Eat 🍴
Savor traditional German dishes like spätzle and sauerkraut. For a sweet treat, don't miss the local lebkuchen, a honey-spiced gingerbread cookie.
Recommended Place to Stay 🛏️
Want to have a taste of the life of royalty? You can book a stay in a castle in Oberwesel. The castle offers many activities to do around its courtyard and it also has a museum in the premise. You can easily spend the entire day exploring the castle and enjoy the panoramic view that the castle offers.
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