Discover Kobern-Gondorf

At Koberner Schlossberg, striking landscapes meet traces of local history, alongside museums and trails of varying lengths. You can decide in advance whether you would rather focus on culture, a hike or both.

Schlossberg, Castles and the Stations of the Cross

Koberner Schlossberg rises 130 metres above the Moselle between the deeply incised side valleys of Hohesteinsbach and Eiligbach. This exposed mountain spur provides a habitat for heat-loving plant and animal species. A narrow path above the church leads to the rocky viewing platform in front of the defensive and bell tower in about two minutes on foot. From there, you can look out over Kobern and the Moselle.

Since around 1150, the defensive tower has complemented the fortifications of the Koberner castles on the village side. Around 1190, Gerlach I of Isenburg and Cobern built the Niederburg on Roman foundations as a state-of-the-art defensive structure. Another link between history and walking is the Stations of the Cross leading up to the castles: its 14 stations depict the Passion of Jesus and are designed like small chapels made of lava stone. The Stations of the Cross above the vineyards were built in 1867.

The Dreikönigskapelle chapel in the cemetery in Kobern is also a destination for those interested in cultural history. Well-preserved medieval frescoes can be seen in the choir. The central artwork is believed to depict the Adoration of the Magi at the manger, created around 1420.

Trails to suit the time you have

The 7.4-kilometre Tatzelwurmweg is a good option for a loop through varied terrain. Three additional via ferratas shorten and alter the main route. Due to their higher level of difficulty, they are intended for experienced hikers who are sure-footed, have a good head for heights and wear sturdy footwear. Check the conditions before setting out.

The Kobern Historical Village Walk offers three routes of different lengths, with 15 marked highlights. The extended version takes up to two hours and covers the period from 800 to 1600 AD. From April to October, public guided tours take place every Saturday at 2 pm; check the current dates before planning your visit.

The 17-kilometre Mosel-Traumpfad Koberner Burgpfad takes more time. It starts at the Old Rectory in Kobern, includes 500 metres of elevation gain and takes around five to seven hours. One section passes through the Koberner vineyards. Compared with the village walk, not only is the route longer, but the stated time required is also considerably greater.

Museums, Winegrowing and Visits

Schloss von der Leyen is in the district of Gondorf and is the only moated castle on the Moselle. It still borders the river directly. At the Gondorf Historical Wine Museum, knowledgeable members of the Gondorf Cultural and Heritage Association display authentic equipment and explain the traditional art of winegrowing. Wine tastings are available on request; confirm the arrangements before your visit.

The Gondorf Local History Museum displays historic electrical appliances, as well as a faithfully furnished classroom, a hair salon, a sewing room, a shoemaker’s workshop and a music room. From May to October, the Gondorf Cultural and Heritage Association offers weekend openings of the local history museum together with the wine museum. Check the specific opening dates for the relevant year. Guided tours of the Goloring take place throughout the year, covering the history of the site’s construction and the Celts’ way of life; confirm the current tour arrangements with the operator.

If travelling by train, you can reach Kobern-Gondorf station on line RB 81. As timetables can change, check the current connections before travelling. This makes it easier to plan visits, guided tours and hikes according to their respective durations and dates.

Discover more destinations: Burgen, Lehmen, Kirchwald, Weitersburg, Oberfell, Rüber, Hatzenport, Nickenich.

Go to the overview of the wider travel region: Mayen-Koblenz.