The largest town in the Rheingau, Eltville rose to prominence in the Middle Ages as the residence of the archbishops of Mainz. Today it's cherished for its wine and roses, which are celebrated most colorfully during its Rosentage (Rose Days), held the first weekend of June.
Burg Crass (Crass Castle), located on the riverbank, is well worth a look, as are the half-timber houses and aristocratic manors on the lanes between the river and Rheingauer Strasse (B-42), notably the Bechtermünzer Hof (Kirchgasse 6), Stockheimer Hof (Ellenbogengasse 6), and Eltzer Hof (at the Martinstor gateway).
There are a number of prominent wineries in the area, and some offer tours and tastings. The Nussbrunnen, Wisselbrunnen, and Marcobrunn estates get their name from the Brunnen (wells) that are beneath the vineyards.
