Bernkastel Kues aerial panoramic view ()
The town of Bernkastel-Kues is a perfect example of everything the Rhineland-Palatinate state has to offer. This spot on the Moselle River has history, beautiful scenery, outdoor adventures, wine, spas and, most importantly, an atmosphere that encourages you to slow down and live in the moment. A trip to Bernkastel-Kues is not about checking places and tasks off your agenda; it’s about wandering, discovering and sitting back to observe everything this place has to show you.
Located 50 kilometers from Trier, the individual towns of Bernkastel and Kues sat on either side of the Moselle and in 1905 they merged into what we now know as Bernkastel-Kues. The town is known for their romantic Christmas market—which I believe because someone once told me it was their very favorite holiday market—but it is also home to the Middle Moselle Wine Festival, a very popular attraction for the area’s many wine lovers. Additionally, Bernkastel-Kues has been awarded the distinction as a health resort, making it a popular destination for spa-seekers.
Travel through time
A leisurely walk through Bernkastel-Kues will give you a free lesson in historical architecture. You will find the Renaissance-style town hall surrounded by 16th- and 17th-century half-timbered homes. Look for the Spitzhäuschen (Pointed House), built in 1416, which now houses a charming, small wine bar! You surely won’t miss walking through the historic Markplatz, but don’t miss the pink Art Nouveau-style house, adding a splash of color and contrast to the block.
Other structures you might seek out are Graach Gate, the last surviving gate in town, and Burg Landshut, built in the 1200s. You can hike or take a vintage bus ride up to the castle. You will also be treated to Roman remains, including an ancient Roman wine press in the neighboring village of Piesport. Lastly, you may pass by the birthplace of part of the town’s namesake, Nikolaus von Kues, who became a successful 15th-century philosopher and theologian and is still celebrated around the world today.
Explore the area
If you’re interested in exploring outside of the city center, there are a plethora of outdoor activities. Jump on a bike—road, mountain or E-bikes are available—or explore one of the many hiking trails, such as the Mosellesteig Trail or a climb to Mount Olympus, the highest point in the area. Maybe you want to experience Bernkastel-Kues from a different viewpoint. If so, there are plenty of Moselle riverboat rides available.
Wine
Being on the iconic Moselle, wining and dining should certainly be on the menu. One idea is to start your wine education at the Moselle Wein Museum to learn about the area’s viticulture and then continue onto the namesake’s St. Nikolaus Hospital, housing a cellar where you can try up to 160 different wines.
Known as a prominent wine making area because of its steep-sloped geography perfect for grape growing, you will find no shortage of restaurants, wine bars and wine cellars ready to welcome you in. The white Riesling in particular made the area famous, so it is worth tasting a glass (or two) of the local favorite.
