I am interested in taking a boat trip along the Rhine and have reviewed a web site offering trips with live music, food and a stop in Oberwesel for a wine festival and a top side view of fire works on the river. I would have to finagle our trip dates a bit to take the tour so am wondering if anyone has done this and whether it is worthwhile. Or, as an alternative to taking the boat, would we be able to see the fireworks if we stay in Bacharach? Appreciate your help.

tt

Dear BabsB:

Top this thread in the morning to get more response. I believe there have been threads in the past about the Rhine in Flames. If I recall, it is held several times thru the summer at various locations.

Good luck and sorry I can't be more help.

MY

Dear BabsB:

Try this thread:

http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34561598

It may have some helpful info.

MY

The 'Rhine in Flames' is presented at different locations on different dates; here is the schedule:

http://www.germany-tourism.co.uk/pag...ights_1364.htm

Note that it will be difficult to get a room in any town that is holding the event, especially if coupled with any wine festivals!

Topping for BabsB!!

Dear Michelle Y and Travelnut, thanks for the info and the websites. This sounds like a lot of fun but am still wondering if we can view the fireworks from Bacharach if we skip the boat ride. I will read the websites more thoroughly and maybe they will provide some additional info. So what goes on with the wine festival? Is it kind of like Octoberfest? Tents and such? Thanks

Dear BabsB:

Hopefully Rufus T. Firefly or Russ will answer you posts. They seem to be experts on this area. We visited the Rhine & Mosel the first weekend in July, 1999. I had read about the Rhine in Flames, but also about an international folk festival in Krov on the Mosel. Both were the 1st weekend in July. I chose the fesival, which was great. There were various performing groups from Europe and also a group from Mongolia. I think we were the only Americans.

Good luck with your plans.

MY

We went to Boppard on the day their wine fest opened - we got the first 2 glasses of wine offered from one of the booths. There was a 'circle' of booths from various vintners and merchants in a town square, and I think maybe a stage for entertainment. We were only there the first hour or so, but it was quite small and manageable, not like what I think Oktoberfest would be at all.

We were not there during a Rhine in Flames period.

The Rhine has steep slopes up both sides and winds around quite a bit, so I wouldn't count on being able to see anything happening in another town from where you are based. You could probably use the local train if you didn't want to commit to a cruise.