beilstein castle/burg metternich

681RayR

We stopped here based on local recommendations. It was just a short trip along the Mosel from Cochem to get here. Once we arrived in Beilstein, we were able to find a parking area that was right near the path leading up to the castle. It was a far easier hike from here, than from the parking lot near the river.Unfortunately, the castle was closed for the season. In fact, it is closed from sometime in November through about Easter (according to the sign). Therefore, we were not able to take in the scenic views from the castle.We wandered down to the village (a very short distance going downhill) and really enjoyed the quaint village. I felt as if I were in a Disney movie based on the layout of the streets and buildings. When you picture old, tiny European towns, this is it.Once again, unfortunately, the town seemed to be shut down for the season. We did not find a single location open. Even the church/monastery just above was shut down.Therefore, don't go here during the off season as you will miss out on seeing the castle via the tour.

JillA976

The walk up to the Burg Metternich is a little steep in places but the view of the Mosel and the surrounding countryside is certainly worth the effort. The entrance fee is a couple of Euros. Note that you need to pay the fee even if you just want the café/restaurant as this is set amongst the ruins. We decided to have a break from sightseeing and had cheesecake and strudel. Both were delicious and the service was friendly and efficient. The castle really is in ruins and there really isn't that much to see. That said, the views made up for it. The village of Beilstein is definitely worth a visit- it is a charming place. Tip- try to see Beilstein when the river cruisers aren't there as the little place gets overwhelmed with visitors.

Hola4876

This is a short hike up from the charming village of Bielstein. Once up there, the views are great and, as the review title says, there is wine. There's a restaurant up there; we didn't really look at the menu but a lot of people were enjoying ice cream desserts.

RenateP145

Having made our way up to the pay hut, we decided to go on further and pay the couple of Euros entry. We left our grandson's buggy opposite the hut and walked on. We enjoyed a very nice glass of wine and a snack on the panorama terrace where the service was excellent and friendly. We even staggered up the tower to enjoy the view of the Moselle valley from even further up. It started to rain on our way down and we were most impressed by the fact that the grandson's buggy was donning a big umbrella to keep it dry - that's service!

nra4c

After a gorgeous boat ride on the Moselle we arrived to Beilstein, a highly advertised place being called the "sleeping beauty" of the Moselle. Well, I guess the sleeping refers to the fact that there is nothing to do there. There is a castle in ruins that has a restaurant (but in order to get there you have to pay an entrance fee), the advertised monastery, church and statue of the black Madonna are all in one place and unless you want to sit around and consume endless quantities of wine there is little to do. The place is charming and the boat trip is totally worth it, but time your visit so that you don't end up being stranded there for more than an hour or two.

josephbarbknecht

This is an imposing ruin overlooking the Mosel. It is a few steps to get up to it and their is a modest fee but you will like Indiana Jones once you are up there. The views are breath taking of the river and countryside. The ruins are in a state where your imagination runs wild. There is also enough left to allow one to climb around and get a real sense of things. Do not pass this by.

Philip58

the usual welcome from the staff resulting from many years of visits.An excellent spot for relaxation and lunch.

Heggvin

This burg was destroyed by the French around 1690, but is still worth a visit. The walk from the village takes about 15 minutes. You get a great view of the river and the landscape from the castle-walls, and even better if you climb the narrow stairs in the tower. Small entrance-fee, 2-3 euros, I think. There is a cafe also, but we did not try it, decided to stop in the village. The village Beilstein is worth a visit itself, charming and idyllic.

Egonvonessen

Although this Castle is predominantly a ruin, it is worth the short walk/hike up to Burg Metternich. Majestic views of the Mosel river and the charming little towns that cozy up to the Mosel river. There is a small cafe/restaurant where you can rest and take in the breathtaking views with a cup of tea/coffee or an adult beverage. Behind the castle is a narrow road that goes up even higher for a more dramatic view of the area. There is also a small piece of history up the trial; where the old Jewish cemetery is located. The walk back down the hill is a pleasant stroll amongst wine vineyards.

628helenS

We were unsure about doing this castle, but found it was well worth the climb to the top of the tower for splendid views over the river. A memorable visit!

CTM7943

We took Bus #711 from Cochem to Beilstein (20 minute ride). Then took a little ferry ride to the other side of the river (it goes back and forth). Beilstein is a very picturesque village. We followed the signs for a 15 minute uphill walk. There are 2 options (stairs or walking path) to the castle ruins. You can take beautiful photos of the river, village and vineyards below from the tower. We had a nice meal while sititng on a scenic terrace, with river views.There are Mosel river cruises from Cochem to Beilstein, which take a couple of hours each way. However, we recommend the Rhine river cruises.We actually started this day trip from St. Goar, where we were lodging (rode train from St. Goar to Cochem). After visiting Cochem, journied on to Beilstein, then back to St. Goar.

lysmekah

We were pleasantly surprised by these castle ruins. Compared to so many other castles we have seen we found this one very beautiful and organic. It was a 15 minute walk uphill from the water, but the view of the river, valley and vineyards made it worth every step. Worth the visit.

UkOma

Metternich Castle is on top of a hill. You can go up using steps or a more gentle path. Take your time and its not too bad - I just had a knee replacement a few months ago so was delighted to be able to do it. The castle itself is a ruin but no less interesting for all that. The restaurant offers wondertful views across the River Mosel, the town and the vineyards. To drink a glass of chilled Riesling in a typucal Mosel glass in such a setting is lovely. On the way down you can visit the Carmelite Monastery Church which lies below the castle.

vladsbtch

I make it a point to go to Beilstein when I am in Germany. Have been there at least 8 times. I always love it. The ruins are beautiful. I have never have climbed the tower as I have a big fear of heights but my friends tell me it is a beautiful view. I also recommend going to the church as it is beautiful! Last time I was there was in 2006, to put this review up I had to choose from the list they had available.

McHopper

The 33rd generation of Dukes still live there! Well, they come once a week -- we heard they arrive on Thursdays and stay through Sunday. It's well maintained and is just the idea you had as a child of a Beautiful castle surrounded by a huge forest. Being there you can easily envision the stuff of storybooks with mystical maidens riding on the backs of giant stags through an enchanted forest (and they have this very image on artworks!).