Castles around Briedern are accessible from the charming wine-growing village of Briedern, known for its peaceful atmosphere and vineyards. Situated in the Moselle Valley, Briedern provides a convenient base for exploring several historically significant castles. The region features a landscape characterized by river bends and vineyard-covered slopes, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Beilstein "The Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle" One of the most beautiful towns on the Moselle, also known as the Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle. We Beilsteiners always strive to treat our guests warmly and kindly and to welcome them as friends when they return to visit us again and again, often for decades. Text / Source: Beilstein Mosel, Bachstr. 47, 56814 Beilstein https://beilstein-mosel.de/
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History (for those who are interested :-) Franconian grave finds show Beilstein's settlement around 800 AD. The place had been a feudal possession of the Lords of Braunshorn since 1268. Under Johann von Braunshorn (1299–1346), Beilstein received city privileges from King Henry VII in 1309 and was fortified. A Jewish community has been documented since 1309, and its Jewish cemetery above the castle still exists today. The former parish church was founded in 1310. After the von Braunshorn family died out, the fief passed to the von Winneburg family in 1360. After Kurtrier took possession of Beilstein in 1488, the Imperial Counts of Metternich enfeoffed the rule of Winneburg and Beilstein in 1652. In 1689, Metternich Castle (“The Proud Walls”) was destroyed by French troops. A Carmelite monastery was founded in 1636 (abolished in 1803), and the foundation stone of the Carmelite monastery church was laid in 1691, which was completed in 1783. The townscape was created in the 17th and 18th centuries and has largely been preserved to this day. The rule of the Imperial Counts of Metternich ended in 1794 with the occupation by French revolutionary troops. From 1798 to 1814 the place belonged to the canton of Zell in the Rhine-Moselle department and was the main town of a Mairie. In 1815 the place was assigned to the Kingdom of Prussia at the Congress of Vienna and belonged to the Senheim mayor's office in the Zell district. It has been part of the state of Rhineland-Palatinate since 1946. Source: wikipedia
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No matter which side you approach Cochem from, the great cityscape is simply fascinating.
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Great view of the castle and Cochem from the bike path. For one of the most beautiful places, but totally overrun by river cruise ships...
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Cochem Eating and Drinking Go for a stroll in a great town on the Moselle.
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The Reichsburg Cochem was first mentioned in a document in 1130. 1151 it was by King Konrad III. occupied and declared a Reichsburg. In 1688 troops of the French King Louis XIV occupied the castle in the course of the Palatinate War of Succession and destroyed it in 1689. The castle complex remained in ruins for a long time before it was bought in 1868 by the Berlin merchant Louis Fréderic Jacques Ravené for 300 thalers and restored in neo-Gothic style was built. It has been owned by the city of Cochem since 1978.
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Worth seeing castle with a great view
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Perhaps the most beautiful town on the Moselle, along with Bernkastel-Kues and Winningen.
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For breathtaking panoramic views, consider visiting Reichsburg Cochem, which stands majestically above the town of Cochem and the Moselle River. The castle's elevated position provides spectacular vistas of the river bend and vineyard-covered slopes. Similarly, Burg Metternich, perched above Beilstein, offers stunning views of the Moselle valley from its large terrace.
Absolutely. Burg Eltz, located in a secluded valley, is unique for having remained undestroyed by wars and continuously owned by the same family for centuries. It offers authentic medieval architecture and rich interiors with original furnishings and a treasury. While Reichsburg Cochem was rebuilt in a neo-Gothic style, its history dates back to the 12th century, and guided tours provide fascinating historical anecdotes.
Both Reichsburg Cochem and the area around Beilstein (home to Burg Metternich) are considered family-friendly. Reichsburg Cochem offers guided tours that can engage children, and it hosts events like the 'Knight's Feast.' Beilstein, often called the 'Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle,' has a charming medieval townscape that families can explore before or after visiting the castle ruins.
Yes, the region offers several hiking opportunities that combine natural beauty with historical sites. For instance, the journey to Burg Eltz involves hiking through the Eltz Forest nature reserve. You can find various hiking routes, including those around Beilstein and Cochem, in the Hiking around Briedern guide, which features routes like the 'Beilstein Monastery Steps – Beilstein loop'.
The climb to Burg Metternich from the village of Beilstein is relatively short, making it easily accessible. Beilstein itself is a well-preserved medieval town. Reichsburg Cochem is also accessible from the town of Cochem, with a picturesque walk up through the old town.
The spring and autumn months are ideal for visiting the castles around Briedern. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant for exploring, and the vineyards are either blooming or showcasing vibrant autumn colors, enhancing the scenic beauty of the Moselle Valley. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it tends to be busier.
Yes, many castles and their surrounding towns offer dining options. At Burg Metternich, there's a large terrace where you can enjoy coffee, cake, local cuisine, and Moselle wines. Reichsburg Cochem has a cafeteria, and the towns of Cochem and Beilstein (Beilstein is listed with pub, restaurant, and cafe categories) are known for their cafes, wine bars, pubs, and restaurants.
The castles around Briedern are set amidst the stunning natural landscape of the Moselle Valley. You'll encounter dramatic river bends, vineyard-covered slopes, and lush forests. Burg Eltz, for example, is nestled deep within the Eltz Forest, a nature reserve, offering serene beauty and numerous hiking trails. Many viewpoints, like View of the Moselle and Cochem from Reichsburg Castle, highlight the river and surrounding valleys.
Yes, Burg Metternich above Beilstein is a captivating ruin. Although largely a ruin, its remaining walls, gates, and distinctive five-sided tower evoke a strong sense of history, and the extensive ruins give visitors a clear idea of its former grandeur.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views, the rich historical atmosphere, and the picturesque settings of the towns like Beilstein and Cochem. The blend of natural beauty with well-preserved medieval architecture and the opportunity for scenic walks and hikes are also highly appreciated. The komoot community has shared over 800 photos and given more than 4600 upvotes to various castle-related highlights in the area.
While Briedern itself is a tranquil village, its location in the Moselle Valley provides access to nearby towns like Cochem and Beilstein, which are hubs for public transport. From these towns, you can often find local buses or walking paths leading to the castles. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for specific routes to Cochem or Beilstein, and then plan your onward journey to the castles.
Many of the outdoor areas and viewpoints around the castles, such as the areas around Reichsburg Cochem and Beilstein, are generally dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the scenery with your pet. However, access to castle interiors or specific facilities might be restricted for dogs. It's always best to check the individual castle's policy before your visit.


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