Moselsteig Wine and Castles: from Neef to Cochem
Bookatrekking.com Trips - 5 days
-
Regular days with
- 10 - 15 km per day
- 250 - 500m ascent per day
- T2 Trails / no difficulty markings
Overview
Route
What's Included
Accommodation
Packing list
FAQ
Arriving and departing
Safety
COVID-19
How to Book
Overview
> From Neef to Cochem
> Walk along castles and vineyards
> Stay in pleasant Gasthofen and hotels
Castles, vineyards, and the Moselle? The Moselsteig has not been around as long as the Eifelsteig and the Rheinsteig, for example, and not every hiker has heard of it. This makes the Moselsteig perhaps Germany's best-kept hiking secret. Follow in the footsteps of the Romans, discover the most beautiful vineyards and end your hiking days with a delicious glass of wine. You will find the good life on the banks of the Moselle.
During this 5-day hiking holiday, you will hike past castles and vineyards. Each day you will cover between 10 and 25 kilometers and spend approximately 6 to 8 hours hiking. Your accommodation in comfortable Gasthofen and hotels along the way is arranged, and your remaining luggage is always driven to your next accommodation. All you have to do is concentrate on the route and think about which wines you want to taste today.
Why book with us?
You can do the Moselsteig completely self-guided. However, putting together the right route including securing all accommodations can be a tricky affair. Bookatrekking.com has warm contacts with all the accommodations along the Moselsteig and we are happy to take that burden off your shoulders. Contact our Trekking Experts for free travel advice and arranging your Moselsteig hike will be a breeze.
Route
What's the plan?
Day 1, Arrival in Neef
Today you will arrive in Neef. Herzlich Willkommen! Tomorrow your hike starts and you will already pass by the Bremmer Calmont. So you can relax today and go for one of the local wine tastings, for example.
Day 2, Stage 1: Neef - Ediger-Eller
The section between Neef and Ediger-Eller is the shortest of the 24 stages - but it offers perhaps the most challenge of all: the Moselsteig trail leads directly to Europe's steepest vineyard, the Bremmer Calmont.
A few steps further, you will see the ruins of the Stuben Monastery in the valley and the legendary Vierseenblick (a division of the Moselle into four separate parts). If you fancy a challenge, you have the option of taking the Via Ferrata at Calmont to tackle the steep slopes here. You won't need any Via Ferrata equipment for this, but it gives you spectacular views as you hike through the vineyards. The Calmont Klettersteig will take about 2 hours of your time. At the end of the stage, the route takes you along an idyllic vineyard path to Ediger-Eller.
Distance: 11.4 kilometers
Walking time: 4 hours
Ascent: 440 meters
Descent: 470 meters
Day 3, Stage 2: Ediger-Eller - Beilstein
A challenging stage, passing through cultivated vineyards and offering varied views of the Mosel Valley. After starting in Ediger-Eller, the route leads past numerous shrines. A trip to the Roman tombs in Nehren, whose vault paintings are the best preserved north of the Alps, is ideal for a diversion. After a vineyard section, the route continues on a narrow forest path through Briedener Schweiz, which is captivating due to its impressive nature. Past the large Carmelite church, the path leads over the famous monastery stairs to the end of the stage in Beilstein. The small Mosel village is also called the "Sleeping Beauty of the Mosel region" because in the past it was often used as a filming location for local films with its small alleys and half-timbered houses.
Distance: 15.9 kilometers
Walking time: 4.5 hours
Ascent: 370 meters
Descent: 360 meters
Day 4, Stage 3: Beilstein - Cochem - Neef
Those who master this stage and its many steep slopes can understand the efforts involved in winegrowing on the Moselle. The rocky paths along the edge of the slope require some surefootedness, but on long stretches, they offer unforgettable views of the Moselle. Finally, the path leads under the vertical rock face of the Brauselay, from where the stage destination Cochem is already in sight, dominated by the fairytale-like Reichsburg.
The return journey from Cochem to Neef is easy. This is a 15-minute train ride, so you can choose to stay in Cochem a bit longer. For example, visit the Reichsburg, take the Sesselbahn to Pinnerkreuz, or, while you're there, taste another wine.
Distance: 13.5 kilometers
Walking time: 4 hours
Ascent: 390 meters
Descent: 400 meters
Day 5, Departure
After breakfast, the program is over. We hope to see you again soon along the Moselle and wish you a pleasant journey back home!
What's Included
Included:
√ Booking the hotels and guesthouses
We will take care of arranging accommodation for you. We will also provide you with a detailed itinerary for every stage and instructions on how to get to the trailhead.
√ Accommodation before and after the trek
We will arrange the accommodation before and after your Moselsteig trek. Both before and after the trek, you will spend the night in Neef.
√ Baggage Transfer
This trek includes the transfer of your luggage throughout the entire trek. Your bags will be picked up every morning from the hotel lobby and will be driven to your next stop. Baggage transfers allow you to travel lighter during the day and enjoy the walk in a more relaxed manner.
√ Breakfast
Breakfast is, if possible, included in this trek and it will be provided every morning at the accommodation before you continue with your Moselsteig adventure.
Excluded:
× Airfare and Visa
You have to make your way to Neef. The total amount is exclusive of flights to Germany.
× Transfers
Once in Germany, you will have to make your way to the trailhead in Neef. We will provide the instructions and assist you with how to get there and back after the trek, but the bus/train tickets are not included, as well as the ferry tickets (if needed).
× Travel Insurance
Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before your trek.
× Lunch and Dinner
Breakfast is, if possible, included in the price of the trek. You can get lunch and dinner at the shops, hotels, and restaurants along the way.
× City tax
The inevitable city tax is also for your own account, in case this must be paid in the accommodations.
× City tax
The inevitable city tax is also for your own account, in case this must be paid in the accommodations.
× Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks, and other similar expenses are for your own account.
Accommodation
AccommodationThe Moselsteig is one of the more popular long-distance hiking trails in Germany. That, combined with the beauty of the Moselle and its many wine villages, means you will find numerous accommodation options along the Moselsteig. It could be a hotel, a guesthouse, a Bed, and Breakfast or a so-called Zimmer Frei. On the Moselsteig trail, you'll find it all. The nice thing about the hiking trail is that you are never very far from civilization. This makes it easy to combine the Moseesteig with a comfortable long weekend away. The Gasthöfer and Hotels along the Moselsteig are usually family-run businesses, often accompanied by an in-house restaurant(s) and bar, and play a central role in community life in the village or town. The wine villages also offer wine tastings.
Arranging the stages and booking the accommodation should not be taken lightly, since the hotels and guesthouses get fully booked months in advance. Below you will find the hotels we usually work with. This trek also includes accommodation in Neef before and after your Moselsteig trek. Should any of these be completely booked, we will look for a different option of a similar category whenever possible:
Night 1, Neef: Gästehaus Mona Lisa
We will book your first night, before starting the Moselsteig, in Neef, where you will be able to relax and prepare for your adventure.
Night 2, Ediger-Eller: B&B Hotel Moselterrasse
The personal and family atmosphere is the signature of this accommodation. Besides the B&B, this family also has its own vineyard, namely the steepest in Europe. So they produce their own wine, and this is a perfect opportunity for a tasting.
Night 3, Beilstein: Hotel Burgfrieden
Beilstein is also known as the Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle. For three generations, it has made sure you have a comfortable stay, just on the outside of Beilstein.
Night 4, Neef
We will book your last night, after completing your Moselsteig adventure, at a hotel in Neef. Here you will be able to relax and rest after your journey.
Packing list
Packing list
It doesn't matter where you are going to walk or for how long. Bringing the right equipment is very important. The first thing you need for your hike is a good backpack. The size of your backpack depends on the number of days you go hiking, the season, and the clothes you take. The most important thing is the comfort level of your daypack. We have compiled a packing list with some essential clothing you should bring and some extras you might find useful:
Essentials:
- Hiking boots (worn in)
- Hiking socks
- Base layer tops - ideally thermal
- Mid layer tops (e.g. fleece)
- Trekking trousers
- Hat for warmth or shade
- Gloves
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Casual clothing & footwear for evenings.
- Nightwear and underwear
- Water bottle
- Sunglasses & sunscreen
- Toiletries
Extras:
- Small first aid kit
- Blister plasters
- Insect repellent
- Camera and charger
- Map and compass
- Whistle
- A book
- Energy snacks
- Walking sticks
FAQ
FAQ
Where is the Moselsteig?
Best season for the Moselsteig
Although you can hike the Moselsteig all year round, the best seasons are obviously spring, summer, and early autumn. Note that some climbs on the Moselsteig can be muddy and slippery in winter or after heavy rainfall. If you want to combine the Moselsteig with the wine season, stick to July and August. During these months, there are various festivities concerning Riesling and other famous wines in the various regions. Not to worry, you can always find a good glass of wine along the Moselle in the off-season too.
Moselsteig and wine
Germany is known for beer but on the banks of the Moselle, you will find wine. Lots and lots of wine. The Moselle region is one of 13 German wine regions and the third largest when it comes to production. Production aside, the Moselle is the best known among experts and that has everything to do with its unique climate and the quality of Riesling wines, which you find a lot here.
With a 65° slope, the steepest registered vineyard in the world is Mosel's Calmont, which belongs to the village of Bremm and is therefore called Bremmer Calmont. On Stage 16 of the Moselsteig, you pass Calmont. But it doesn't really matter where you start and end, all along the Moselsteig, you'll find a good glass of wine. Or two.
Arriving and departing
How do I get to the Moselsteig and back?
The Moselsteig is very well reachable by public transport. The Moselle Valley Railway connects Trier with Koblenz, so there is always a train station nearby along the Moselsteig. This ensures that the Moselsteig can also be easily hiked in individual stages and completed as desired.
By plane
It is the easiest to fly to Frankfurt am Main, if possible. From there it will take you approximately 2.5 hours to travel to Neef.
By plane
It is the easiest to fly to Frankfurt am Main, if possible. From there it will take you approximately 2.5 hours to travel to Neef.
By train
If you travel by train, take the ICE to Cologne/Cologne and then the ICE to Frankfurt. Get off in Koblenz and from here take the direct train (Moseltalbahn) to Trier and get off in Neef. The journey takes about 5.5 hours. From Belgium, Neef is best reached by train via Luxembourg City.
By car
The easiest way to reach Neef by car is via the A2 motorway past Eindhoven and Maastricht through Belgium past Liege/Liege and Bitburg (D). From Brussels, you can reach Neef in just 3.5 hours. Drive via Luxembourg city.
Back to the starting point
The train journey from Cochem back to Neef takes just 15 minutes. Both villages are on the railway, the Moseltalbahn. The Moselle Valley Railway runs parallel to the Moselsteig and 16 of the 24 stages can be reached directly by train. There is also an extensive bus network in the Moselle region. Note: Plan your trip before the hike!
Safety
SafetyThe Moselsteig is not as well known as the Eifelsteig and the Rheinsteig but it is nevertheless a well-known hiking trail in Germany. The hiking trail is well-marked in both directions with the recognizable Moselsteig symbol.
Although the Moselsteig is anything but a Himalayan trek, things can always happen and there are also obstacles on the hiking trails along the way. For an unforgettable and safe memory, at least keep the following in mind:
- Wear appropriate clothing adapted to the weather that protects you from cold and wetness or from heat and sun.
- Do not leave the marked paths.
- Prepare carefully for your stages and use your energy wisely.
- Always make sure you have enough water with you.
- During climbs and descents, always use the provided aids such as handrails and ropes.
- Hiking trails can be treacherous, especially in autumn and winter.
Important phone numbers
Make sure your loved ones are informed about your hiking program. Bring a charged phone containing at least the following numbers:
- Immediate family member
- Places of accommodation en route
- General European emergency number: 112
COVID-19
COVID-19The Covid-19 pandemic has had its grip on us, and accommodations all over the world have had to take several preventive measures over the past two years. In the meantime, most of the measurements are not taken into consideration anymore, yet it is definitely still a factor to take into account. Some restrictions that are worth mentioning:
- Don't go on your hiking trip if you have symptoms.
- Not all the accommodations are allowed to operate at full capacity yet, so make sure you book your stay in advance.
- Keep your distance and hygiene.
- Use disinfectants and hand sanitizers.
- Don't go on your hiking trip if you have symptoms.
- Not all the accommodations are allowed to operate at full capacity yet, so make sure you book your stay in advance.
- Keep your distance and hygiene.
- Use disinfectants and hand sanitizers.
Stay informed about the current rules per country. Make sure you know before you leave which measures you need to take during your stay. The best thing to do is to check the websites of the government.
How to Book
How to Book?On Bookatrekking.com you can find and compare the adventures of your dreams. Is this trekking your match? In that case, you can proceed with your booking. At Bookatrekking.com you make a deposit of 30% of the total amount. In the case of this trek, we will check the availability at the respective accommodations for you. There are two possible outcomes:
√ There is availability
We go ahead and make all necessary arrangements for your trip. Once confirmed, we will send you a confirmation and your personal hiking guide. The remaining 70% must be paid at least two (2) weeks before the start of the trekking.
X There is no availability
If there is no availability, we will look for other starting dates or another trekking in agreement with you. Are there no other options for you? Then your deposit of 30% will be refunded.
Cancellation Policy
If all the accommodations of this trekking are booked and confirmed, you will lose your deposit of 30% at all times. If you cancel within 14 days of your start date, you will lose your full booking amount.
Is it not quite clear yet or do you have questions? Please contact us via support@bookatrekking.com. We are happy to help you.
Gallery
Pay only a deposit now!
From
per person
See Group Discount
1 Person
2 Persons
3+ Persons
These treks you might like
Toubkal & Sahara Trip
Operated By Aztat TreksThis is a combined tour and is an express Toubkal Ascent Trek followed by a more relax drive to the edge of the Sahara; just at about 40kms....
6 days
Batur Sunrise Trek & White Water Rafting
Operated By Bali Trekking ExplorationA perfect adventure package for those who can’t decide between volcano trekking and white water rafting. Enjoy the best of both...
1 days
Eastern Walker's Haute Route
Operated By Bookatrekking.com TripsThis 5-day trek is designed for those trekkers who are short of time or just don't want to spend so many days on the mountain. Our 5-day...
5 days
Ghorepani Poon Hill trekking
Operated By Nepal Hiking TeamThe Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a well-rounded journey. Not only will you get to enjoy the Annapurna Mountains, but you will also get to...
Nepal
6 days
Rongai Route
Operated By Top Climbers ExpeditionsReach the roof of Africa from the less toursitic northern side of the mountain. In this quiet and peaceful environment you are able to...
Kilimanjaro
6 days
Everest Base Camp Gokyo Valley Trek
Operated By Alpine Club of HimalayaTrekking to Everest Base Camp crossing through the Cho La Pass at 5420m is an alternative to traditional trail to Everest Base Camp Trek.
Nepal
16 days
