Downhill to Breakfast (DHTB) announces... Berg Ab Zum Frühstück The Mosel River Trail from Trier to Moselkern, Germany 3 - 13 May 2013

Cochem

"With a majestic castle and picturesque medieval streets, Cochem is the hub of the middle Mosel...Duck into a damp wine cellar to sample the local white wine (Weinprobe means "wine-tasting").  Stroll pleasant paths along the idyllic riverbank, play life-size chess, or just grab a bench and watch Germany at play." -- Rick Steves, Germany 2012.

Cochem and nearby Beilstein were strikeouts on finding accommodations online - direct contacts said already booked and booking websites said no availability.  So we'll be staying two nights upriver a few miles in Bruttig-Fankel (between Beilstein and Cochem) and going to Cochem on a short day trip on our full day.

Sights

• Reichsburg Cochem (Cochem Castle) dominates the skyline.  Like many castles along the Rhine and Mosel, this one was virtually destroyed by the French in 1689.  It wasbought by a rich Berliner in 1868 and "restored".  Tours (in German only) run throughout the day, but English guide sheets are available.
• Ride the Sesselbahn (chairlift) ascending the hill on the opposite side of the hill from the castle.  You can ride to the top and take a short rocky path leading to the Pinnerkreuz overlook, or scramble up the path under the lift for 20 minutes and get your aerobic exercise for the day.
• Wine-tasting at Weingut Rademacher (four local wines for €2.90).
• Historic Senfmühle ("Mustard Mill")