In July, we will be staying in the Wiesbaden area for 5-6 days with son, d-i-l, and 2.5 yr old granddaughter. Stayed in Wiesbaden and around the area on previous trips, but looking for lodging suggestions and activities that would accommodate and amuse our granddaughter. Hotel with a pool would be ideal. Countryside setting would be ok, too. Willing to spend a little more to get just the right hotel. We would rent a car if necessary, but normally go by rail/bus. Thanks in advance for any help.

Have you done the Mosel/Rhine area - Cochem is a dream town for families - riverside play areas, mini golf and huge municipal pool and castle of your dreams:

https://www.google.com/search?q=coch...w=1280&bih=625

Take trains and K-D.com boat rides on the Rhine - One of Germany's most famous castles is nearby - Burg Eltz and there are also cruises on the Mosel. Not sure about 5-6 days but 3 or so would be fine. For lots on trains and boas check www.seat61.com; BETS-European Rail Experts and www.ricksteves.com.

Thanks for taking the time to reply. Your suggestion re. Cochem is a good one. We explored the Mosel some years ago and loved it. Unfortunately, we are pretty much tied to the Wiesbaden area this trip and cannot venture as far as Cochem.