1. Bernkastel-Kues
This hike begins in the historic wine-growing town of Bernkastel-Kues, which is characterized by its many wineries that have won architecture prizes. First, get an overview by climbing the steps in the Kueser Plateau spa gardens up through the vineyards. Once you’ve arrived at the top, the Skywalk offers breathtaking views of the town, the Mosel valley, and the vineyards. Then, follow the Moselsteig trail to the opposite riverbank.
2. Bernkasteler Doctor vineyards
The trail now leads you past one of the most expensive vineyard locations in the world: the Bernkasteler Doctor. Some of the world’s finest and most expensive Rieslings are produced here. Thanks to its south-southwest orientation, this steep hillside gets plenty of sunlight, and the weathered shale adds delicate yet spicy notes to the grapes.
3. Graach an der Mosel
The Moselsteig trail leads you further north to the small village of Graach. Perched high above the Mosel, the Schäferei district offers panoramic views of the river and the idyllic wine landscape. It’s the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy a good view. Below, on the hillsides of the Mosel, you’ll find the Graacher Himmelreich – or “heavenly kingdom” – vineyards. The special thing about this steep bluff is that it has its own climate: the vineyards have optimal exposure to the sun yet at the same time are very protected from wind and frost, which allows the grapes to ripen evenly and fully. The high proportion of clay minerals lends this area’s Riesling a fine minerality.
4. Zeltingen-Rachtig
You can reach the wine-growing village of Zeltingen-Rachtig by hiking along the Moselsteig trail through the so-called Sortengarten (“garden of varieties”). Here, former vineyards are now home to fruit trees and berry bushes, which appreciate the sunlight-rich climate as much as the grapes do. In town, the numerous restaurants and wine taverns offer an inviting way to fortify yourself and linger awhile. Afterwards, continue following the Moselsteig trail through the village and cross the Mosel river once again.
5. Ürzig
Shaded paths lead you past the woods to the historic wine-growing village of Ürzig, the final destination of this hike. In addition to the charming half-timbered houses, you’ll find around 20 wineries here. That means this hike ends with some difficult decisions, because a wine tasting at each one is worth your while. Not least because the steep hillside of the Ürziger Würzgarten vineyard – considered one of the best locations in the Mosel region – rises majestically above the village.
