Road Trip Along the German Wine Route
Enjoy a three-day wine tasting tour
If touring quaint country villages, gentle hiking through rolling countryside and exploring historic castles, all while enjoying local wine sounds like your kind of adventure, the German wine route is the ideal road trip for you. Our three-day itinerary starting in the town of Bockenheim and finishing in Schweigen-Rechtenbach gives you the chance to explore the many vineyards littering the area and taste first-class wines and other culinary delights along the way.
Route
Bockenheim ➤ Neustadt ➤ Schweigen-Rechtenbach
Distance
Approx 3 6miles / Approx. 1 hour 15 mins
Travel duration
3 days
Highlights
Largest wine barrel in the world, German Wine Gate, Trifels Castle, Hambach Castle, Wachtenburg Castle Ruin
Best time to travel
Late March to mid-October
Insider tipp: The winemaking village of Sankt Martin is less touristy so is perfect if you’re looking for tranquility, while the wine hike to Kropsburg is worth the trip if you enjoy hiking.
Tolls
None
Day 1 - Bockenheim an der Weinstraße
The official starting point of the German wine route, Bockenheim an der Weinstraße, dates back to the early medieval period so it is awash with local German tradition and culture. The picturesque streets and historic buildings add a quant charm while the town’s many wine cellars mean there’s plenty to interest those looking to sample the region’s wine. If you’re keen to experience a wine-tasting tour on your first day, there are plenty of vineyards to choose from as you head out of Bockenheim towards Neustadt an der Weinstraße, your next stop for the evening.
Sights along the way
- Bad Dürkheim: Don’t miss the giant wine barrel, the world’s largest wine barrel, which doubles as a unique wine tavern and restaurant.
- The Wachtenburg Castle Ruin: Stretch your legs on a short hike to this ruin and be rewarded with breathtaking views over the Rhine Valley.
- The House of the German Wine Route: A unique building containing a restaurant with panoramic views that marks the start of the German wine route.
Gastronomy
Best restaurants nearby Bockenheim
- Namaste India
- KISH
- Paolo
The most popular wineries
- Weingut Lauermann und Weyer
- Weingut Sonnenhof
- Weingut Kohl
Day 2 - Neustadt an der Weinstraße
The gateway to the Palatinate Forest Park, Neustadt an der Weinstraße is nestled on the edge of the forest, close to the French border. It boasts the most half-timbered houses in the Palatinate and is home to a rare stone house dating back to the 13th century, so it is a great place to stop and soak up the history of the area. As you journey onwards along the wine route towards Schweigen-Rechtenbach you’ll come across other must-visit attractions like Hambach Castle and Villa Ludwigshöhe.
Sights along the way
- Hambach Castle: Experience the birthplace of German democracy at Hambach Castle, now a symbol of freedom and unity.
- Villa Ludwigshöhe: Discover a majestic palace nestled amidst vineyards, once the royal retreat of Bavarian King Ludwig I.
- Landau in der Pfalz: A vibrant town, renowned for its charming streets, historic architecture, and bustling market squares.
- Trifels Castle: Step back in time at this ancient fortress steeped in history, perched high above the picturesque Palatinate landscape.
Gastronomy
Best restaurants nearby Neustadt
- Zum Woibauer
- Kirchstübel
- St. Martiner Weinhäusel
- Landgasthof Jägerstübchen
The most popular wineries
- Weingut Härle-Keth
- Weingut Schwartrauber in Mußbach
- Weingut Seibert in Hambach
Day 3 - Schweigen-Rechtenbach
No trip along the German wine route would be complete without heading to the German Wine Gate in Schweigen-Rechtenbach. Marking the official end of your road trip, the area sits in the Palatinate Forest and is surrounded by stunning hiking and cycling routes, should you wish to get out and explore. For those happy to end their trip at a slower pace, the area is an oasis of peace and relaxation with charming villages to explore, local culinary delights to be savoured, and even more wine-tasting tours from some of the region’s finest local vineyards.
Sights along the way
- Drachenfels Castle ruins: These unique ruins of Drachenfels Castle offer magnificent views over the Palatinate Forest and the Northern Vosges Natur Park Biosphere Reserve.
- The German Wine Gate: Discover the iconic German Wine Gate, marking the end of the renowned German Wine Route.
- Guttenberg ruin tour: This six-mile circular, moderately challenging hiking trail into the Palatinate Forest offers the perfect opportunity to experience the stunning scenery and nature the area is renowned for.
- Wissembourg: Explore the charming town of Wissembourg, with its quaint cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and vibrant culture.
Gastronomy
Best restaurants in Schweigen-Rechtenbach
- Deutsches Weintor Restaurant
- Raddegaggl Stubbl
- Leinsweiler Hof
The most popular wineries
- Weingut Friedrich Becker
- Weingut Bernhart
- Weingut Cuntz Sonnenhof
Useful tips for your road trip along the German Wine Route
A wine hike, or Weinwanderung, is a unique way to explore the picturesque vineyards and rolling countryside the German wine route is famed for. It typically involves trekking across the countryside, crossing meadows and meandering through forest paths while stopping at wineries to sample their wines and learn more about the winemaking process.
During a wine hike, you’ll have the chance to speak to local winemakers, giving you exclusive insights into their craft and the wines that they produce. But you also get to soak up the atmosphere of charming villages and historical landmarks while enjoying scenic views at a slower pace.
Follow our top tips to make the most of your wine hike:
- Wear comfortable footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are a must for uneven terrain.
- Wear sun protection: Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun during the warmer months.
- Stay hydrated: Carry a refillable water bottle and make sure you drink plenty of water (and not just wine) along the way.
- Carry snacks: Pack lightweight snacks like trail mix, fruit, or energy bars to keep your energy levels up on the hike.
- Follow wine-tasting etiquette: Remember to sip, swirl, and savour the wines responsibly, and consider using a spittoon if tasting multiple wines.
If you’re planning a German road trip, you should follow these camping dos and don’ts:
- Choose the right campsite: Research and select a campsite that suits your needs, whether it’s by a lake, in the mountains, or near a forest.
- Pack accordingly: Be prepared for varying weather conditions by packing layers, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear.
- Respect nature and wildlife: When camping it’s important to always leave no trace. This means not littering and making sure you tidy up any remaining debris once you’ve packed up.
- Know the rules: Familiarise yourself with the camping regulations of the area and any rules of the campsites you’re staying at – paying particular attention to fire regulations, waste disposal, and quiet hours.
- Enjoy local cuisine: Make the most of your trip by exploring local markets and trying regional delicacies.