The municipality of Bernkastel-Kues is divided into four charming districts: Bernkastel, Andel, Wehlen, and Kues. While Bernkastel and Andel lie on the right bank of the Moselle, Wehlen and Kues stretch along the left bank. On this sun-drenched side is the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten , which sits majestically atop the Kues Plateau and offers an ideal starting point for excursions.
Approximately 7.800 people live in all four districts. Bernkastel and Kues are separated by the Moselle River, but have been firmly united for over a century. The town of Bernkastel-Kues, in its present form, only came into being on April 1, 1905, through the merger of the town of Bernkastel with the winegrowing village of Kues on the opposite bank. The honorary mayor is Wolfgang Port (CDU), who has led the town with great continuity since 2000.
The old town of Bernkastel: A walkable history book
A visit to Bernkastel's old town, including a tour of the historic market square, is highly recommended. Here you'll find numerous lovingly restored half-timbered houses, renowned worldwide for their density and splendor. Explore the narrow alleyways and discover hidden plaques inscribed with traditional toasts and amusing anecdotes that reflect the spirit of the Moselle region.
The sights of Bernkastel-Kues at a glance
The pointed house on the historic market square
The most famous photo subject is probably the pointed cottage . At first glance, it appears slightly crooked, a fact that is absolutely confirmed upon closer inspection. The overhanging timber framing was exposed in 1914 after it had been plastered over – as was common practice with many half-timbered houses. The striking bay window and the delicate facades testify to the traditional architecture of the Moselle towns and mark the transition from Renaissance to Baroque styles. It is a typical example of Moselle winegrowers' houses with solid slate walls and a deep wine cellar. Today, the ground floor houses the cozy wine tavern of the Schmitz-Herges family winery.
The Graach Gate
The Graach Gate was built around 1300 as part of the northern city fortifications. It owes its name to the neighboring village of Graach, towards which it leads. Originally a tall gate tower, it was rebuilt in the 18th century as a two-story structure with a vaulted passageway after war damage. Over time, it served as a prison, a residence, and even a homeless shelter. Since 1985, it has housed a local history museum with cultural and historical exhibits.
Karlsbad Square
Directly behind the tourist information office lies Karlovy Vary Square , named after the Czech twin town of Karlovy Vary. This close partnership between the two spa towns has existed for over 10 years. The square offers a wonderful view of the Moselle River and serves as a central event venue. A large part of the annual Christmas market takes place here, and the "Summer Stage" also attracts visitors with live concerts. A particular highlight is the fountain, a gift from Karlovy Vary, whose sculpture symbolizes eternal life as well as day and night.
Viticulture and legends: The Bernkastel Doctor
Bernkastel-Kues would be unthinkable without its world-famous vineyards. The most famous story revolves around the " Bernkasteler Doctor " vineyard . Legend has it that in the 14th century, Archbishop Boemund II of Trier lay deathly ill in his hilltop castle. No doctor could help him until the knight Gerhard Vogt von Hunolstein brought him a small barrel of his finest wine.
After consuming this "medicine," the archbishop immediately recovered and proclaimed: "My dear Lord of Hunolstein, your health-giving grape blood is the best doctor; therefore, the wine and the mountain shall bear the name 'Doctor' for all time." Thus, the vineyard received its legendary name. Further details about the Doctorberg can be found here: Doctor Berg Info.
Culture, churches and wellness
Besides the Landshut Castle ruins, which overlook the town, Bernkastel and Kues boast a total of four significant churches. Each tells its own chapter of the town's history. You can find more information about these churches in Bernkastel-Kues here.
After an eventful day exploring the old town or hiking through the Doctor vineyards, the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten offers the perfect retreat. Enjoy the tranquility on the plateau and reflect on your historical experiences during a wellness treatment.