Picturesque Cochem is a stop for most visitors traveling along the Moselle. Even if they had no plans to visit the historic city, the Reichsburg Cochem raffle draws thousands of people each year.
You should of course visit the castle and details to plan your visit are provided here, but also explore the charming old town, the riverside and the local ruins.
Reichsburg Cochem
The Moselle’s largest castle-hill, Reichsburg Cochem, dominates the city’s skyline. Although its towering spiers can be seen from all angles, reaching the castle is a bit more difficult. While visitors can hike to the top, a shuttle bus (April through November) offers a much easier ride. In the off-season, taxis often offer a short ride to the site. Driving to the site is not recommended as medieval one-way streets and frequent traffic cause awkward reversing situations.
Reichsburg Cochem has a long history of defense, being outmatched and rebuilt. Built sometime in the early 1000s, it was first destroyed in 1688 by the French king, the troops of Louis XIV, during the Nine Years’ War (or Pfälzischer Erbfolgekrieg ). It was rebuilt in 1868 by a wealthy Berliner, Louis Fréderic Jacques Ravené, for the paltry sum of 300 Goldmark . Since then, it has passed through several hands before being bought by the city of Cochem in 1978.
Today’s visitors see the rebuilt and restored fort as it did when it was built. Filled with grand dining rooms, Neo-Gothic rooms, and secret passageways decorated with Renaissance and Baroque armor and furniture, it once housed up to 40,000 knights.
Guided tours (in German) offer a comprehensive overview of the castle’s history with a translation sheet available in 12 languages. For visitors interested in a more immersive experience, Knight’s Meal offers an authentic medieval feast.
If you prefer picturesque views with the castle rather than from it, cross the Moselle to the village of Cond.
- Address : Schloßstraße 36, 56812 Cochem, Germany.
- Telephone : 49 (0) 26 71 – 2 55
- Email : [email protected]
- Admission : 5 euros for adults; 3 euros for children (from 6 to 17 years old); Family ticket of 14.50 euros
- Hours : Daily guided tours from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Senfmuehle
The other Cochem product (besides the regional Riesling specialty) that all visitors should bring home is mustard. Visit the 200-year-old mustard mill at Wolfgang Steffens. Discover how this special gourmet mustard is created by following self-created recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. There are guided tours (with tastings!) And a take-home shop for this delicious mustard.
- Address : Stadionstrasse 1, D- 56812 Cochem / Mosel
- Telephone : 49 (0) 2671 607 665
- Email : [email protected]
- Store hours : 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Monday to Sunday
Winneburg Castle Ruin
Located in the neighboring valley of Enderttal , the ruins of this 13th century castle are a testament to the many wars fought along the Moselle. Destroyed during the Nine Years’ War in 1689, visitors still frequent the site to examine the cost of the battle.
How to get to the site : one hour walk from Cochem city center
Pin cross
An impressive viewpoint with an unparalleled view of Reichsburg Cochem, the easiest way to reach the summit is by chairlift. A huge cross commemorates the shepherd who lost his life trying to save one of his flock. Take a camera to capture the magic.
How to get to the site : take the chairlift or go for a walk. Behind the Cochem train station there is a footpath to the Pinnerberg .
