Retired Nomads Part 4: Koblenz, Germany & Middle Rhine Castles & Scenic Cruising

Thursday, July 10

Koblenz, Germany, is renowned for its historic significance as a Roman settlement and its location at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, famously known as the "German Corner".

We skipped the walking tour of Koblenz to visit the Eltz Castle near Münstermaifeld in the heart of the Eifel region. It’s often described as a Fairy-tale Castle and the most beautiful castle in Europe. It is still owned by a branch of House of Eltz who have lived there since the 12th century.

We had a guided tour to see decorated halls and rooms that showcase the castle’s remarkable history; 15th century murals adorn the walls and The Knight’s Hall features displays of armor and weapons that date back to the 12th century. Unfortunately, no photos allowed here. (only the outside and the entryway)

Emperor William I of Germany - equestrian statue (waiting for the tour to start)

Back in town we snapped a couple of photos on the way to the ship.

Basilica of St. Castor

famous thumb gesture of the Roman general Gaius Julius Cesar

The tour took up all of the time we had that morning before returning to the ship for lunch and scenic cruising on the Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its stunning landscape dotted with numerous castles.

These castles, often built on hilltops or rocky outcrops, served as strategic fortifications and symbols of power throughout history. Key castles include Marksburg, which is unique for never being destroyed, and Rheinfels, the largest castle on the Middle Rhine, now a grand ruin.

We had a lovely sunny day for taking in the views and it was an afternoon of running side to side on the top deck and 2 smaller decks on the lower deck that had some shade. Cruise Director Bojan gave commentary as we approached the various sites. I hope I have labeled the castles correctly but probably have some wrong. There were many campsites along the way and people enjoying the summer. Many people swim nude which some of our fellow passengers found "different". There were lots of birds in the water, mostly Egyptian Geese, Cormorants, Grey Herons and White Wagtails.

Marksburg Castle - Braubach, Germany

another riverboat passing by

radio tower in the distance

vineyards

cattle high on a hill

lots of campers

Sterrenberg Castle & Liebenstein Castle

Sterrenberg Castle

Liebenstein Castle

goats

km markers along the middle Rhine

enjoying the beach with his dog

Maus Castle

Katz Castle

village high in the valley of the hills above the town

Lorelei, a German legend of a beautiful maiden who threw herself into the Rhine River in despair over an unfaithful lover and was transformed into a siren who lured fishermen to their deaths. It is known for producing an echo.

Lorelei

newly planted grape vines

Gutenfels Castle

Pfalzgrafenstein Castle

Pfalzgrafenstein Castle & Gutenfels Castle

cormorants

Gutenfels Castle

goats

this is how tight the room was

We arrived in Mainz & picked up the entertainment for the evening. It was a fun show with a married couple called Medieval Rhythms. She played several types of bagpipes, and he played a drum, and she also sang. It was a fun show.