Winningen, Cochem and Beilstein

In the morning, we drove to the small village of Winningen, which was recommended as a tourist highlight.

Some of the slate houses were quite picturesque, but overall we were rather disappointed by the town, which seemed a bit deserted on that Sunday morning.

Information plaques on some buildings provided details about their historical significance. We learned that one of the founders of the Audi automobile company came from Winningen.

Our drive continued along the Moselle River to Cochem.

We first strolled through the alleys of the old town located by the banks of the Moselle.

Then we took one of the excursion boats, which were operating for the last time that year, and spent an hour on the Moselle enjoying a leisurely ride that went to the little town of Bruttig-Fankel.

Back in Cochem, we took the bus to the Reichsburg, which towers over the city.

It was built in the year 1000 under Count Palatine Ezzo and was elevated to the status of a Reichsburg in 1151 when it came under Staufer control.

After being destroyed in 1689, it was rebuilt in the 19th century by Louis Ravené.

The castle is only accessible with a guided tour. However, a visit is worthwhile as the grounds are picturesque and the interiors still house impressive details like ceiling paintings and various furnishings.

That evening we stayed overnight with our motorhome at the Dieterichs winery in Ellenz-Poltersdorf.

From there, we took a short hike, initially crossing the Moselle by ferry to see the town of Beilstein.

Many small winding alleys lead past old houses.

In the upper part of the town, there is an old Carmelite convent whose monastery church we visited.

Back on the other side of the Moselle, we strolled a bit through the vineyards surrounding the town.

In the evening, we were able to taste and buy some of our host's delicious wines.