The Moselle Valley is perfect for a romantic mini-break at Christmas time. Its half-timbered buildings are festively lit, the aromas of mulled wine out of the local vineyards and cinnamon fill the air at traditional Christmas markets, guests can snuggle up at cosy hotels and the Christmas shopping is a pleasant experience and relaxed. From the end of November onwards, visitors to the region can visit and enjoy over 20 Christmas markets in the Moselle region.
One of the most famous Christmas markets takes place in the wine-producing town of Bernkastel-Kues hosts its Christmas market, one of the loveliest in Germany, from 21 November to 20 December 2009. The medieval streets, idyllic squares and beautiful timber-framed buildings will all be looking wonderful in the glow of thousands of Christmas lights. On 5 December almost a hundred hardy souls will join the traditional torchlight swim and transform the Moselle into a veritable sea of lights - a delight for spectators.
Other markets include Cochem which features in the old town and overlooked by the famous Reichsburg, from 27 November to 20 December 2009. The numerous festive wooden stalls entice visitors to stroll around and enjoy the Christmas spirit. In a festively-decorated marquee local hoteliers and caterers offer a multitude of delicacies in the Christmas chalet, the Yuletide bakery and the Christmas market tavern.
Trier, which is Germany's oldest town, dating back over 2,000 years also hosts a popular Christmas market which takes place from 23 November to 22 December and is set against the backdrop of the magnificent cathedral and medieval Hauptmarkt square. With its numerous Roman monuments a visit to Trier is like strolling through Roman history. Visitors can pick their way amongst the 95 wooden stalls which offer a wonderful array of Christmas decorations, hand-made wooden toys, ceramics and glass.
All towns in the Moselle Valley are a short journey from Frankfurt-Hahn airport. For more detailed information please contact Rheinland-Pfalz Tourismus GmbH, Löhrstrasse 103-105, 56068 Koblenz, Germany, phone: +49 (0)1805 7574636
(14 Cent/minute), fax: +49 (0) 261 915 2040, email: info@romantic-germany.info