The Moselle Valley, between Bernkastel-Kues and Traben-Trarbach, combines a flat, family-friendly cycle path with one of Europe’s most spectacular wine landscapes, its hillsides so steep they rank among the continent’s steepest.
A flat path beneath vertiginous hillsides
From Bernkastel-Kues, a medieval town of half-timbered houses, the cycle path follows the Moselle for about 30 km toward Zeltingen-Rachtig and then Traben-Trarbach, following the well-marked Mosel-Radweg route. The route, almost entirely flat, lets you take in the terraced vineyards rising steeply on both banks without any effort.
Getting the family ride right
With barely 100 m of cumulative elevation gain over the whole route, this ride poses no difficulty and suits kids pedalling on their own. The many wine villages along the way offer regular opportunities for a break, between ice cream stops and family-friendly shops.
When to go
April to October, with the September-October harvest bringing a special atmosphere as wine-making activity is visible on the surrounding hillsides. Spring benefits from lighter tourist crowds than high summer.
Good to know
Bernkastel-Kues, one of the valley’s most photogenic towns, offers a wide choice of accommodation, with convenient access to Traben-Trarbach for extending the stay along the Moselle.
