Burg Eltz and the Mosel River

Day 2

 On our second day in Cologne, we hopped aboard our bus and drove to the Mosel River Valley.  After the scenic drive, we arrived at Burg Eltz Castle. The castle dates back to 1157 and brings forth images of how we imagine life to have been at that time.  From the parking area, Thomas led us through the medieval feeling woods to the castle entrance. The castle consists of three separate homes, and we toured two of those. The third home is actually a residence!  After dreaming of living, or more likely working, in a castle, our fabulous driver escorted us to the town of Beilstein. This charming town is located on the Mosel and boasts a fine riverfront, market square, wine cellars stocked by local vintners, and quaint restaurants. Although we only had lunch here, you could easily enjoy a couple of days and see Beilstein's own castle, or rather what's left of it. The castle was destroyed by the French in 1689 except for it's tower. The hike up promises a beautiful view.