Cruising the Moselle with Avalon

As intoxicating as the grapes that grow along its path, Europe’s beautiful Moselle River takes travellers deep into some of the continent’s most memorable rural landscapes. Branching out from the famous waters of the Rhine in Germany, the Moselle flows for more than 500 kilometres through the valleys of Germany, Luxembourg and France. With its wide curving waterways and stunning scenery, the river provides a wonderful pathway to explore some of the oldest towns of Europe, while experiencing all the comforts of a state-of-the-art river cruise ship. Avalon's modern fleet of river cruise ships in Europe offer two key itineraries on the Moselle, the 8 Day “Canals, Vineyards & Castles” cruise and the 11 Day “Rhine & Moselle”.

Sailing west, the beauty of the Moselle unfolds from Koblenz, a 2,000 year-old city built on the confluence of the Moselle and Rhine rivers. Filled with grand towers, castles, fortresses and quaint city squares, Koblenz is charming to explore by foot, with new delights appearing around every corner. As the river winds its way towards France, the wine village of Bernkastel beckons. Visitors can enjoy the fruits of Germany’s largest expanse of vineyards, as they are transported back to the Middle Ages by the town’s narrow streets and half-timbered houses. At Cochem, travellers can explore the remarkable Reichsburg Castle built in 1,000 AD and furnished with Renaissance and Baroque furniture. Situated on a hilltop amongst vines, the castle also provides a spectacular vantage point over the quaint township, which spills towards the banks of the Moselle.

Most Avalon Moselle sailings feature the cruise line’s revolutionary Suite Ships, which offer 30 per cent more cabin space than the industry average, with wall-to-wall panoramic windows that can be opened to turn its suites into open-air balconies – the perfect way to take in the vista along the river. In each town, Avalon offers the flexibility to do as much or as little as you like – a daily program of exceptional excursions is included, plus there’s an additional choice of optional excursions. The result is an intimate and flexible style of river cruise, offering relaxed luxury and the freedom to tailor your own experience.