The insider tip for hikers who ask us at the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten for a suitable excursion is: the high-altitude hiking trail through the Iron Wine Map . This route is far more than just a hiking path; it's a journey through the flora, fauna, and centuries-old wine culture of the Middle Moselle. The highlight rewards hikers with a breathtaking panoramic view over Bernkastel-Kues, instantly making them forget the effort of the climb.
On this tour, the journey itself is the reward. The hike leads from the historic Graacher Gate – the last remaining city gate of Bernkastel – directly into the world-famous Doktor vineyards. Along vineyards and ancient vineyard walls, the path climbs steadily uphill on traditional cobblestones. This section will challenge your calves, but rewards you with an immediate proximity to the vines that produce the exquisite Mosel Riesling.
Discoveries along the way: nature and culinary delights
During the ascent, you can discover the diverse flora and fauna. Lizards and rare insect species find a protected habitat in the warm, dry-stone walls of the vineyards. If you need a short break, you'll find the perfect spot after the initial climb: the "Zur eisernen Weinkarte" (The Iron Wine List) inn, which the trail passes directly by, is ideal for a short rest. Here you can enjoy a refreshing drink and the first panoramic view across the river valley.
The trail continues through a diverse mixed deciduous forest and across meadows that are particularly captivating in spring and summer with their profusion of wildflowers. The route offers a constant alternation between sunny vineyard slopes and shady sections of forest, making the hike very pleasant even on warmer days.
Golden prospects and historic Runinen
The descent into the Moselle Valley then begins, leading through a varied woodland landscape. As you cross the mixed forest, a beautiful view opens up of the vineyards of the Wildbach Valley and the imposing Grevenburg Castle ruins, which overlook Traben-Trarbach.
In recent years, the landscape here has changed: many of the vineyards, which are difficult to cultivate due to their extremely steep slopes, have been cleared. Thanks to the Canadian goldenrod now growing there, you can experience these slopes in late summer in vibrant, golden-yellow hues – a natural spectacle that lends the path a unique aesthetic.
The finale: V-shaped valley and ship passage
The final stretch of the trail takes on a truly rustic charm. It leads through a steeply carved valley, lined with stately sycamore maples and expansive orchards, down into the valley to Traben-Trarbach. After the hike, this Art Nouveau town invites you to a leisurely stroll before the grand finale.
From Traben-Trarbach, the boat trip takes you back to Bernkastel-Kues. The journey on the Moselle offers the opportunity to admire the hills you hiked through earlier, once again from the water. There's hardly anything more relaxing than feeling the wind in your hair as the vineyards slowly drift by. Of course, you can purchase your boat tickets in advance at the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten – ensuring a smooth and enjoyable excursion.
Your retreat after the tour
Upon your return to the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten, a well-deserved reward awaits you. Take advantage of our KURFÜRSTEN Spa to soothe your tired muscles in the sauna or with a rejuvenating massage. The combination of the physical challenge of the "Iron Wine List" and the subsequent deep relaxation in our resort defines the perfect holiday experience on the Moselle.
Click here for the Google Maps map showing the route to the Iron Wine Map.