Moselle River Guide & Cruises

The Moselle flows through France, Germany and Luxembourg, with winding bends along the river and stunning countryside views around every twist and turn, with fairytale castles and stone-clad fortresses, some lovingly maintained and restored, others in ruins from ancient battles. Wineries and quaint hillside towns are hidden around every major bend of the river.

The Moselle Valley is famed for its beautiful scenery and excellent wines, which river cruise travellers love to sample! In the Middle Ages, many "wine villages" — called "Winzerdorfs" — were established in the region, with paths from the town center up to the area's vineyards. A community wine cellar in the town center allowed all the area's wine growers to store their wines. Toward the end of the 17th century, the Moselle began to identify with wine made from the Riesling grape, a tradition that continues to this day, with Riesling comprising more than half of the grapes harvested along the river.

The Moselle River became a pivotal crossing during World War II and a strong connecting force in post-war Europe. Today, the Moselle's crisp white wines indicate the charming and uncomplicated pace of life in the region. Picturesque castles are dotted along the river banks and pretty towns with architecture ranging from Roman to rococo.

Cruises on the Moselle are often combined with Rhine River cruises and are a great way to experience some of Europe's oldest and most enchanting cities, soaking in the sights. Fresh, local cuisine and fairytale landscapes make the Moselle River valley a perfect backdrop for a relaxing cruise and perfect for anyone with an appreciation for wine.