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Discover Rheinland-Pfalz - being updated

Rheinland-Pfalz is an amazing state located in Western Germany, and it is certainly worth exploring. It shares its borders with other German states such as North Rhine-Westphalia, Saarland, Baden-Württemberg and Hesse. Even more amazing is that it borders France, Luxemburg and Belgium, opening vast opportunities for cultural exchange and adventure. As the state with the most forests, nature enthusiasts will have a field day exploring its numerous beautiful places. The Rhine River also meanders through the East of the state, doubling as the border between Hesse. The Eifel region is home to sleepy volcanos that form part of an unforgettable Volcanoes route.
 You certainly don’t want to miss out on Rheinland-Pfalz’s natural beauty and diverse culture!

Why Is Rheinland-Pfalz the Perfect destination?

01.

Wine

70% of all German wines originate from the picturesque and idyllic Rheinland area. The region has a long history of winemaking dating back to the Roman Empire and is known for producing some of the world's finest wines, from crisp whites to rich reds. The Schloss Wachenheim Group is the world leaders in sparkling wine production

02.

Castles

There are over 80 castles in the region. Some of the most famous ones include the iconic Eltz Castle and the breathtaking Cochem Castle

03.

Location

The Moselle river, with its picturesque surroundings, flows through the region, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. But that's not all - the region is also home to some of the most spectacular dormant volcanoes in Europe, attracting visitors from across the globe.

04.

Rivers

Almost 300km of the Rhine flows through Rhineland-Palatinate. The Moselle, Nahe, Lahn and Wied rivers also flow through the region

Explore

Towns

National parks

nature

Moselle Valley

The Moselle Valley is an incredibly picturesque region that is renowned for being one of the most breathtaking areas in Germany. This area is also known for its culinary delights and world-renowned white wines produced in the vineyards that gracefully stretch throughout the region. The Moselle Valley is home to many charming towns and peaceful countryside areas where you can experience the authentic culture of France, Germany, and Luxembourg

The Rhenish Massif

The Rhenish Massif region is rich with geological history. It is a notable geologic massif that consists of a complex assemblage of metamorphic rocks. These rocks are unique in their composition, texture, and structure, and have been formed through millions of years of intense geologic and tectonic activity. The area boasts of unique ecosystems that is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species.

Eifel Region

The Eifel Region is located in western Germany and eastern Belgium. It is a low mountain range that is an absolute delight for nature lovers and hikers alike. The breathtaking landscapes and towering mountains are the perfect places to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the region. With picturesque towns and villages dotting the idyllic countryside, the Eifel Region offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Westerwald

The Westerwalt is a low mountain range situated on the banks of the scenic and historically significant Rhine River. It is a nature lover's paradise, and it is renowned for its lush green landscapes and breathtaking scenery.

Nahe Valley

The Nahe Valley is a renowned and celebrated wine region, which boasts a rich history and a diverse range of grape varieties. Wine lovers and enthusiasts alike are drawn to this area, not only for the quality of wine, but also for the scenic landscapes and picturesque vineyards. The Nahe Valley offers an array of distinctive wines, including dry Rieslings, full-bodied Pinot Noirs, and spicy Gewürztraminers.

Hunsrück

The Hunsrück mountains are formed primarily of quartzite, sandstone and slate, and is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The area is a favorite destination for hikers and nature lovers who find solace in the serene surroundings and spectacular vistas. The Geierlay suspension bridge is 360 meters long and up to 100 meters above the ground

Food and drinks to try

The following specialities are typical for the region

  • Saumagen – a mixture of pork, sausage meat, potatoes and herbs served in a casing traditionally made from pig stomach
  • Gedadschde – Mashed potato patties fried in oil
  • Schwarzer Magister –  A hearty dessert made from zwieback, prunes, eggs, lemon, cinnamon and cream
  • Appeltaat – Apple tart with almonds, dry white wine, lemon and vanilla
  • Meenzer Spundekäs – a cream cheese dip with onions, garlic and sweet paprika
  • Rhine-Style Mussels (Muscheln rheinische art) are cooked in stock and white wine and served with read
  • Kirschenmichel – a buttery bread pudding made with sweet cherries, kirsch liquer, cinnamon and cloves
  • Course Bratwurst
  • Leberwurst
  • Blood sausage/ Bluttwurst – A sausage filled with blood and fillers such as meat, fat, and potatoes.  In the Rhineland, it is also traditionally made from horse meat,
  • Leberknödel
  • Flääschknepp – meatballs served with a radish sauce
  • Grumbeersupp  – potato soup
  • Quetschekuche – Plumb cake
  • Kerscheplotzer – Cherry cake also known as a Kirschenplotzer
  • Zwiebelkuchen – Onion cake traditionally served with a Federweisser
  • Salmon and eel
  • Federweisser – a drink you will find in Autumn. It has 9 – 13.5% Alcohol by volume and is also known as Traubenmost, Junger Wein, Neuer Süßer or Most. It is made from fermented freshly pressed grape juice known as must
  • Weck, Worscht un Woi – a combination of a bread bun, meat and wine. Very popular in the Carnival season which starts on 11.11 at 11:11.
  • Dampfnudeln – steamed dumplings, served sweet with vanilla sauce, fruit like plums or pears or with a wine sauce. Can also be served as a side dish with soup or stews
  •  

Geheimtips

  • Burg Eltz, a beautiful medieval castle above the Moselle river
  • Cycling and camping along the Mosel between Koblenz and Trier

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amazing things about Rhineland-Palatinate

  1. 42% of the landmass is covered by trees
  2. The German Wine Route (Deutsche Weinstrasse)  is an 85km long route between Bockenheim an der Weinstraße and Schweigen-Rechtenbach. 
  3. The Rhenish Massif is in the northern half and includes the Eifel, Moselle Valley, Hunsrück and Westerwald regions
  4. 6 of the 13 German wine regions is in Rhineland-Palatinate. They are Rheinhesse, Pfalz, Nahe, Mittelrhein and Ahr
  5. The Schloss Wachenheim Group in Trier, produce around 230 million bottles of sparkling wine every year
  6. The federal state was established in 1946. It is the 9th largest and 6th most populous state in Germany

 

 

Festivals

Some of the well-known festivals are:

Online resources and apps

South African Businesses in the Area

Anèl Ham – Rusk and Beskuit

Home made rusks / Tuisgebakte beskuit Mueslibeskuit = EUR 8 vir 500g Karringmelk = EUR 6 vir 500g Delivery cost is additional and will depend on the delivery address

Reise Explorer

From the Hocheifel to the world! With a destination knowledge of over 140 visited countries on all 6 continents, we help you to make the most beautiful days of the year a dream experience. On our web page, you can book trips online or get travel inspiration. Bookings on our website naturally include the same service and assistance as if you were booking with us in our local travel agency. Of course, we are also available for personal travel advice, from our South African owner, in our modern travel agency at Markt 6 in the historic center of Adenau. For further information please do not hesitate in contacting us. Thanking you Kindest regards Michael

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These hotels are designed to cater to tourists seeking outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountaineering. The offer a rustic and cosy atmosphere Location This type of hotel is located in the mountains and is mostly traditional or rustic. You typically find such a hotel in the Black Forest, in the Alps, in the Swabian Jura or in the Harz Mountains. Seasons These hotels attract a diverse range of visitors year-round. In winter, they are favoured by skiers and winter sports enthusiasts. During the summer, these hotels become a hub for hikers, bikers, and other active sports enthusiasts. Reasons to go Cosy Rustic Breathtaking views Things to consider Crowded in peak season Remote Familienhotel Designed with families in mind, these hotels provide family-friendly amenities such as play areas, children’s menus, and family suites. Many are located near popular attractions like amusement parks and zoos, making them an ideal choice for a family vacation. Location Conveniently located across Germany Seasons All Reasons to go While not all facilities are available at every family hotel, you can often find options such as children’s entertainment, family-friendly rooms, child-friendly catering options, playrooms, playgrounds, childcare services, and leisure activities tailored for families. These hotels aim to create a welcoming environment for families, with some even offering spa or wellness facilities. Things to consider Family hotels are specifically designed to cater to guests travelling with children, and they typically do not accept bookings from those travelling without children. This ensures a family-oriented atmosphere and allows the hotel to focus on providing the best possible experience for families. Gasthaus or Gasthof (Inn) A traditional, family-run inn that combines cosy accommodations with a welcoming, often rustic, on-site restaurant or beer garden. These charming establishments are found in villages and smaller city neighbourhoods. When in the countryside it is called a Landgasthaus. Location Conveniently located across Germany Seasons All Reasons to go Known for their homely feel, Gasthäuser and Gasthöfe often feature wooden furnishings, local decor, and a warm, friendly atmosphere. Guests can enjoy authentic German dishes made with regional ingredients, like schnitzel, bratwurst, and seasonal specialties, often served with local beers or wines. Ideal for travelers looking to immerse themselves in local culture, these inns provide a uniquely personal, laid-back experience with a focus on German hospitality.. Things to consider Generally simpler than larger hotels, with basic amenities and often no room service, fitness centres, or other facilities associated with modern hotels. Confirm that essentials like Wi-Fi, en-suite bathrooms, and parking are available if needed. Payment options may be limited to cash or certain cards, so it’s wise to confirm these details in advance. Hotel Garni A Hotel Garni in Germany is a type of accommodation that focuses on providing comfortable lodging with a limited range of services. Unlike full-service hotels, a Hotel Garni typically offers just breakfast, without an on-site restaurant for lunch or dinner. These hotels are usually smaller, often family-run, and provide a cosy, personalized atmosphere. Rooms are well-equipped with modern amenities, and breakfast is typically a highlight, featuring a buffet of fresh, local options like bread, cheeses, cold cuts, fruits, and coffee. Location Conveniently located across Germany Seasons All Reasons to go Found in cities, towns, and holiday regions, Hotel Garni is ideal for travelers who plan to explore local restaurants and attractions throughout the day, and simply need a clean, comfortable place to rest and start their day with a hearty breakfast. 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Federweißer (New wine)

Federweißer Depending on the harvest, fresh Federweißer or new wine is available from late summer to the end of October.  Depending on the time of year you might also find Most or First Wine as it is the first step in making wine. It is much sweeter than wine and is not filtered like grape juice. Federweißer is somewhere between Most and wine. The fermentation process has not yet been completed and tje sweetness, alcohol content and fruit acidity are well balanced.  It’s relatively sweet because the yeast has not yet completely broken down the sugar in the grape must. If you store it at room temperature for a few days, the taste will become more tart and will have a higher alcohol content.It is characterized by a cloudiness caused by the active yeasts. When pouring it creates a slight foam, Where to find Federweißer Federweisserfest Zell Mosel 2022  Fest des Federweißen in Landau in der Pfalz You can buy Federweißer in general grocery stores Some restaurants will offer it.  Look out for a Besenwirtschaft in your area Interesting facts 01. Limited availability It is only available at the beginning of Autumn 02. Fermentation Fermentation continues insde the bottle. To stop fermentation, keep it in the fridge 03. Alcohol Content The alcohol content is around 5% vol. Great accompaniments The following dishes goes very well with Federweißer Zwiebelkuchen Flammkuchen Pumpkin soup Mettbrötchen Related content

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Weather in Germany

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Weather atlas gives a good overview of the climate per month Another good source of information by Region/Town is the Climatemps website. Here is an example of the weather data they have for Stuttgart Current weather conditions BERLIN WEATHER STUTTGART WEATHER FELDBERG WEATHER Towns with the most sunshine Freiburg and Chemnitz are known as the towns with the most sunshine hours in Germany.Looking for other sunny cities in Germany? You can see a comparison here. When you don’t feel yourself during the darker months, you might suffer from Seasonal affective disorder Warmest cities in Germany Frankfurt is the warmest city in the summer.The city with the highest average temperature for 2019 was Köln-Stammheim. Offenbach am Main is also on the list.Rostock is the coldest on average. Most Rainfall per city Halle / Saale has the least rainfall. It also seldom rains in Erfurt, Berlin and Magdeburg – they still have little sunshine (3.8 to 4.4 hours/day).According to Bild, A lot of rain falls in Oldenburg (1072 milliliters), Remscheid (942), Essen (931), Solingen (896) and Wuppertal (866).This means that North Rhine-Westphalia is not only one of the regions with the poorest sunshine but also one of the rainiest regions. Where to find the most Snow The snowiest location in Germany is the Zugspitze, standing at an elevation of 3,000 meters. While snow is most common in mountainous regions, lower-lying areas also experience snowfall, though less frequently. The heaviest snowfall typically occurs in January and February. Types of weather conditions Precipitation refers to any form of atmospheric moisture that falls to the Earth’s surface. There are various types of precipitation that can occur depending on the temperature and atmospheric conditions in a particular region. The most common types of precipitation include rain, snow, sleet, and hail. To read more about the difference between Graupel, Freezing rain, Sleet and snow, have a look on this page from NJ.  der Regen Rain Rain occurs when liquid water droplets in the air combine and become heavy enough to fall to the ground der Hagel Hail Hail is formed when strong updrafts carry water droplets high into the atmosphere where they freeze and are repeatedly cycled through rising and falling air currents, forming layers of ice. der Dauerregen Constant or persistent rain The US National Weather Service has a good explanation of the different types of rainIn Central Europe one speaks of continuous rain when it continues with uninterrupted rainfall and a severity of more than 0.5 millimeters of precipitation per hour for a period of at least six hours. der Sprühregen or der Nieselregen Drizzle Fairly uniform precipitation composed exclusively of fine drops very close together. Drizzle appears to float while following air currents, but unlike fog droplets, it falls to the ground. Quite often fog and drizzle occur together. der Graupel / Graupel Also known as snow pellets.Graupel forms when snowflakes are coated with a layer of ice. Graupel is typically white and opaque. der Eisregen Freezing rain Raindrops becomes supercooled and freeze upon impact with any surface. This results in ice that can accumulate.Freezing rain occurs when the layer of freezing air is so thin that the raindrops do not have enough time to freeze before reaching the ground.  Instead, the water freezes on contact with the surface, creating a coating of ice on whatever the raindrops contact.  der Schneeregen Sleet Sleet is simply frozen raindrops and occurs when the layer of freezing air along the surface is thicker.  This causes the raindrops to freeze before reaching the ground.Sleet occurs mainly just before snowfall and looks like hoarfrost droplets. In contrast to snow, sleet grains are easily breakable. Often these break when they hit the ground. der Schnee Snow Snow occurs when the temperature is cold enough for water vapor to freeze into ice crystals in the air. Snow is solid precipitation that falls from the sky in the form of ice crystals. The ice crystals look like six-pointed stars, needles, columns or plates.  der Nebel Fog In the meteorological glossary fog is defined as ‘obscurity in the surface layers of the atmosphere, which is caused by a suspension of water droplets. By international agreement (particularly for aviation purposes) fog is the name given to resulting visibility less than 1 km. However, in forecasts for the public, this generally refers to visibility less than 180 m. Some also say that Fog is a cloud that reaches ground level (rolls in) Der Dunst Mist Mist is defined as ‘when there is such obscurity and the associated visibility is equal to or exceeds 1000 m.’ Like fog, mist is still the result of the suspension of water droplets, but simply at a lower density. Mist typically is quicker to dissipate and can rapidly disappear with even slight winds, it’s also what you see when you can see your breath on a cold day. Some also say that mist forms on the ground (rises) der Eisnebel Freezing fog The fog forms when the temps at the surface are below freezing.The accumulation will usually be horizontal due to the wind. This type of fog can occur when cold air