Today we begin our tour in Koblenz, the only city situated on both the Mosel and Rhine Rivers and two wine areas. The harbour area boasts a magnificent statue of William the 1st. Most of the old town was destroyed during World War Two. There a few original churches and buildings and some have been reconstructed. The weather has turned quite cool so most of the ladies returned to the ship after our tour. Some chose to wander through the quaint streets and visit the shops along the way. Everyone was back on the ship by mid day and were happy to settle into the comfy chairs at the front lounge with a cappuccino or hot chocolate.
The afternoon was relaxing and exhilarating. We gathered at the front lounge to enjoy the scenery as we cruised through the Rhine Gorge. MAGNIFICENT! Truly the highlight of my trip.
Steep slopes covered with vineyards and dotted with castles and picturesque villages. The area between Koblenz and Bingen is 65 kilometres and has the greatest concentration of castles and ruins, 30 to be exact. Some of the castles have been restored and are now inhabited only during the summer months as they are too damp and cool to live in during the winter months. The piano player serenaded us with wonderful music as we cruised through the majestic Rhine Gorge.
As we passed the famous Loreley Rock situated in the narrowest and deepest part of the gorge, the stewards passed out warm Loreley drinks (hot chocolate and amaretto) and the Loreley tune played on the loud speakers. Truly a moment to remember.
We finished our day off with a fabulous meal and a local singer came on board to entertain us with Frank Sinatra tunes. He was flamboyant and fun and engaged the whole audience. Another wonderful day and evening was enjoyed by all.
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