Gorging on the Romantic Rhine

Like the Swiss, the Germans love to adorn their houses with flowers.

The Rhine River is know as the Romantic Rhine because of the stretch of river known as the Rhine Gorge.  Unfortunately, I can't include any photos of the gorgeous castles along this stretch because of the cloudy, rainy weather; fortunately, both Dwight and I had cruised this stretch before with better weather conditions.  We didn't mind the rain and cold -- it was a relaxing morning rolling on the river. The Lorelei looked like they weren't too happy, however. They were beckoning some sailors to come over and keep them warm.

Preparing the Rudesheim coffee

After lunch, we arrived in the quaint German town of Rudesheim.  Redesheim is noted for it brandy, and we can attest to the quality of that product.  We sampled the famed Rudesheim coffee which is made much like Irish coffee only made with local Asbach brandy, just the ticket for a cold, damp climate.  The Romans first brought grapevines to Germany, and the Germans have learned how best to use them. The vines grow on the steep banks of the riverside where the grapes must be picked by hand, but they are warmed and nurtured by the warm rays of the sun reflected from the river. 

Another product of the area was Hildrgard of Bingen.  An abbess who lived in the 12th century, she is one of the best-known women in European history ad achieved amazing things for a woman of her time and place.  Read all about her here.   

We returned to the boat and were greeted by a towel art creation of our steward.  The evening finished with a performance by an incredibly talented trio of musicians (violin, viola, and 12-string guitar).  Another great day on the Rhine ended and we headed for bed.