4 Best Sights in Cochem, The Rhineland

On the opposite shore of the river, the romantic ruins of this medieval-era castle crown the Schlossberg (Castle Hill) vineyard. The Lords of Braunshorn are named as owners of Metternich as far back as 1268, but the core of the castle is probably even older than that. Enjoy a glass of wine or a hearty meal in the castle's terrace café, then take a stroll down to the village of Beilstein. It's known as "Sleeping Beauty of the Mosel"; once you ascend the Klostertreppe (monastery steps) to the baroque monastery church for views of the winding streets lined with half-timber houses, you'll understand why.

Hop on this chairlift to the Pinner Kreuz for great vistas, which you can enjoy from the terrace of the café at the top. As the name suggests, these lifts are the open-air foot-dangling type, rather than the enclosed gondolas, so those with a fear a heights may prefer the steep walk instead.

Wolfgang Steffens conducts half-hour daily tours at 11, 2, 3, and 4, showing how he produces the gourmet mustard at his 200-year-old mill. Garlic, cayenne, honeycomb, Indian curry, and Riesling wine are among the flavors you can sample and buy in the shop.

The 15-minute walk to this 1,000-year-old castle overlooking the town will reward you with great views of the area. English guided tours lasting 40 minutes take place on the hour between 11:30 am and 4:30 pm; it's not possible to visit the castle and courtyards without a tour. During the first week of August, there's a medieval festival including colorful tournaments. Regular medieval banquets are available with advance booking only. These take place in German but with English translation sheets to accompany the feasting and merriment; the price includes a castle tour.