How to Find Luxury Hotels in Rhine Valley, Germany

The Rhine is a river that forms the southwestern border between Germany and France. It is also the term used to describe the fertile valley surrounding this vast river and its tributaries. There are so many castles and fortresses where the Rhine River enters the valleys of the Black Forest that many believe they have stepped back into medieval Europe. The Rhine hillsides are also dotted with vineyards that produce some of the savoriest German wines available. Whether navigating a private yacht down the Danube or wandering the bucolic landscape of the Rhine Valley, luxury accommodations will await you at the journey's end.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access to make reservations
• A map of Germany
• A passport
• A valid credit card

Instructions

1. Stop in any of the charming wine villages of the Rhine Valley for an unforgettable trip to old-time Germany. Traditional and modern accommodations are available for the weary road traveler, which are a luxury when exhausted from an afternoon of wine tasting and hiking the rolling hills.

2. Visit the grape vineyards scattered across the fields of the Rhine Valley. Historically a part of a royal estate, they were used to make wine for the kings and queens of the castle. Search the countryside near these old vineyards for castle-hotels, imperial residences converted into luxury accommodations.

3. Rest your weary feet at a local inn along the Rhine River and enjoy a bottle of excellent German wine with some local cuisine. If you can carry a tune, join in the regional tradition of singing songs.

4. Enjoy the area's religious architecture. The Rhine area is primarily Catholic, which has a strong influence on the the landscape, as evidenced by the majestic cathedrals, churches and vast monasteries.

5. To book accommodations, contact German National Tourist Board at 011 ([phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• All phone numbers include the United States international prefix "011." When calling internationally outside the United States, substitute that "011" with "00." All country codes are within parentheses and begin with a "+" sign.

• Consider a travel package. Airlines, hotels and tour operators often offer travel packages in which rates are reduced for certain airline/hotel or hotel/tour combinations. Ask a travel agent if packages are available for the Rhine Valley.

• A 10 percent gratuity is included in your bill at most restaurants. However, you'll want to tip an extra 5 to 7 percent--or more, if you see fit.

• In Germany, you'll want to pay your waiter directly. Do not leave money on the table

• If you are getting from place to place by taxi, try to stick to licensed cabs.