Cochem

Cochem, a medieval town in Germany's Mosel Valley, sits along the Mosel River, overlooked by the Reichsburg Castle. The town's streets are lined with half-timbered houses, and visitors can explore attractions such as the Cochemer Sesselbahn chairlift, local wineries, and hiking trails through nearby vineyards. The town serves as a base for river cruises and wine tasting experiences in the surrounding Mosel wine region.

Exploring Cochem's Old Town

Cochem's Altstadt (Old Town) is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval buildings. Walk through the town to reach the Marktplatz, the central square surrounded by colorful half-timbered houses. The square is home to the Cochem Town Hall, a Renaissance-style building dating back to 1739. The Enderttor, a 14th-century town gate, once served as part of Cochem's defensive walls and still stands today.

Mosel River and Promenade

The Mosel River flows through the heart of Cochem. Take a walk along the river promenade, where cafes and restaurants serve local cuisine and wine. Watch boats pass by as you enjoy your meal. River cruises, typically lasting 1-2 hours, offer a different perspective of the castle, vineyards, and surrounding hills.

Wine Tasting in Cochem

Cochem is part of the Mosel wine region, known for its Riesling wines. Visit the numerous wineries and wine bars in and around town to sample local vintages. Many wineries offer tours of their vineyards and cellars, explaining the wine-making process. The steep slopes surrounding Cochem are covered in vineyards, creating a scenic backdrop for the town.

Cochemer Sesselbahn: A Bird's Eye View

For sweeping views of Cochem and the Mosel Valley, ride the Cochemer Sesselbahn (chairlift). The lift takes you from the valley floor to the Pinnerkreuz viewpoint, about 255 meters above the river. At the top, you'll find a restaurant and several hiking trails. The ride offers unique views of the castle and town as you ascend.

Hiking Around Cochem

The area around Cochem has many hiking trails suitable for all levels. The Moselsteig, a long-distance trail that follows the Mosel River, passes through Cochem. For a shorter hike, try the trail to the Brauselay viewpoint, which offers views of the river bend and Cochem. Another option is the hike to the nearby town of Beilstein, known for its medieval character.

Reichsburg Castle: A Hilltop Wonder

The Reichsburg Castle sits atop a steep hill overlooking Cochem and the river. Originally built in the 11th century, the castle was destroyed in the 17th century and rebuilt in the 19th century in a Neo-Gothic style. Take guided tours of the castle's interior, which includes decorated rooms, a knights' hall, and a weapons room. From the castle grounds, see across the Mosel Valley and surrounding vineyards.

Getting to Cochem

Cochem has regular train services from major cities like Koblenz and Trier. The train station is located just across the river from the Old Town, about a 10-minute walk from the center. Cochem is accessible from the A48 autobahn. The nearest airports are Frankfurt-Hahn (about 50 km away) and Frankfurt International (about 130 km away).

Best Time to Visit

Visit Cochem from late spring to early fall (May to October) for warmer weather suitable for outdoor activities and river cruises. The harvest season in September and October is ideal for wine enthusiasts. Cochem hosts several festivals throughout the year, including a wine festival in late August and a castle festival in early August.

Where to Stay

Cochem offers a range of accommodation options. For a riverside stay, Hotel La Baia offers rooms with balconies overlooking the Mosel. Hotel Zehnthof in the Cond district across the river provides a more relaxed atmosphere while still being within walking distance of the Old Town. For a unique experience, stay in the Reichsburg Castle itself, which has a few guest rooms available for overnight stays.