Rheinsteig: Rudesheim to Koblenz

Prepare for a remarkable hiking week between Mainz and Coblenz, where you'll be treated to mountain ranges offering legendary views of the majestic Rhine River, vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, numerous castles and palaces, and charming half-timbered architecture.

This journey takes you through the enchanting Rheingau region, known for its idyllic wine locations and the inviting wine taverns known as 'Straußenwirtschaften,' where you can savour the delightful Riesling wine. In the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage region of the 'Mittelrheingau,' you'll stroll past majestic fortresses perched on ledges, steeped in the pure romance of the Rhine, a setting that once inspired Heinrich Heine to pen his famous Loreley song. With its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, it's no wonder that the Rheinsteig trail was nominated as Germany's most beautiful hiking route. This is hiking at its finest, both in terms of elevation and experience!

And when it comes to wine, the residents of the Rhine banks are true connoisseurs! Join their ranks and embark on the 'Rheinsteig hike,' an expedition into the world of fine grape nectar and, of course, a journey filled with hiking pleasure. The Rheinsteig, spanning a total of 320 kilometres, ranks among Germany's most beloved hiking routes, with the stage between Rüdesheim and Koblenz being particularly noteworthy.

As you traverse this picturesque landscape, vineyards will unfold before you, along with a tapestry of castles, fortresses, and monasteries. The villages where you rest for the night boast charming half-timbered facades and genuine warmth. There's no better way to conclude an exhilarating day of hiking than with a glass of Rheingau Riesling in the evening.

Details about the hiking holiday on the Rheinsteig

The Mittelrheingau region has been destined for viticulture since ancient Roman times, and the Romans themselves laid the groundwork for the success of today's winemakers through their meticulous construction of wine terraces.

As you follow the Rheinsteig trail, you'll largely walk along the Winzerwegen, where numerous traces of the Romans still exist. But there's more to discover besides wine in this remarkable region. You'll be captivated by the unique landscape, breathtaking vistas, and an exceptionally high concentration of castles and fortresses, each steeped in history and adding to the allure of your journey.

The highlights of this walking holiday at a glance

• Rheinsteig: Voted the most beautiful hiking trail in Germany several times and for good reason. From nature-shaped trails to cultural attractions, the Rheinsteig is a treat for all hikers.

• Hiking on the paths of the winegrowers: The wine leaves its mark not only in the form of good wines but also in the form of lonely hiking trails. The Rheinsteig between Rüdesheim and Koblenz mainly runs through and along idyllic wine-growing routes.

• Historic castles and palaces: The term 'Rhine Romanticism' is no coincidence, it describes the style of many castles in the region but also the prevailing attitude to life along this river. Countless castles and palaces line your route and are places where a short break is well worth it.

Worth knowing about the hike on the Rheinsteig

The next few days will be sporty. Every day of the walking holiday, you can expect varied walks between 13 and 21 kilometres. A good basic condition is an advantage, especially for the ascents and descents on the ridges of the Middle Rhine Valley.

Route summary

Hiking tours along well-maintained paths and in parts on asphalted vineyard paths. Depending on the route you can enjoy the tours leisurely or make it more challenging. Summits in the Rhine Valley area are not high, but partly steep. Hence surefootedness is required in a few places. This week of walking offers a beautiful combination of nature, sights and enjoyment.

This tour has been graded as Medium. Find out more about our walking holiday difficulty levels.