Friday, 27 June 2003

Germany 2003: Rheingau Valley - Narrow gorges, twisted river...

"I always like to look on the optimistic side of life, but I am realistic enogh to know that life is a complex matter..." - Walt Disney

Motorised tour through the wine-growing region of Rheingau and its districts of Kiedrich, Rüdesheim, Assmannshausen and St. Goarshausen, including the legendary Loreley Cliffs. Visits of the Niederwald Memorial and the medieval Eberbach Monastery, which gained fame as the shooting location for the film "Name of the Rose".

(An old castle along the river)

This stretch of the Rhine is the picturesque narrow gorge through which the river twists and turns past ruined castles and the Loreley rocks. Fine Riesling vineyards on steep terraces line the right bank, punctuated by quaint villages. Rüdesheim is beautiful, if sometimes overrun with tourists, while Bingen boasts an 11th-century bridge, Germany's oldest.

(Small boutique towns along the route)

The picturesque Rhine gorge hosts a special recreational cycling day which opens up 70km of highway on both sides of the river for the use of cyclists. Far from an event for hobbyists only, the Sunday on the river draws participants of all ages for leisurely rides in one of Europe's most stunning landscapes.

(Vibrant coloured sun-flowers)
,
I asked the Earth to show me all,
It took my hand, said start with small.
found a worm who dug the earth,
Told me, know the value of your worth.
A blade of grass, one of many,
Taught, be thankful of those around you child,
in case you have not any.

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