A horse and carriage ride through the Rheingau vineyards, sipping Riesling while castle hopping, is the perfect combination for a 'pinch me am I dreaming’? or 'Am I a character in a fairytale’? moment.
Well luckily I was not dreaming and fairytale moments do come true in the Rheingau with the help of Mr Gottfried Schuth’s horse and carriage tours. You can book several beautiful wagon rides in the Rheingau region for a lovely afternoon out with your group of friends. Our tour visited two castles with wine tasting and a light snack picnic in the vineyards along on the way.
The wagon conveniently met us all in a parking lot along the Rhien River and then we were off! First stop was at the charming Schloss Vollrads, where you can sight see and also enjoy some wine tasting in their vinothek. This gorgeous castle and wine estate have been making wine for over 800 years! You can sip their Riesling while sitting next to the tower and surrounding pond. The early 14 century tower looks like right out of the German fairy tale, Rapunzel!
After my daydreaming of envisioning Rapunzel dropping her long golden hair out of the tower, it was time to get back on the wagon! Some members of the group bought several wines that they just sampled in the vinotek.
We went further into the vineyards, then the wagon stopped at a wonderful wine tasting picnic set up by Mr Schuth’s tour. His wife was there along with their third business partner, their 15 year old dog named Charly.
The stop they chose had an amazing view. We were high, in the sunshine, and the atmosphere was very calming. I thought it was interesting to be so close to all of the grapes. They looked so healthy and delicious. I look forward to drinking them when they turn into wine soon!
Now with a belly filled of wine and cheese, it was back on the wagon to the final stop, Schloss Johannisberg. This is a beautiful castle to visit! They have a wine shop, a great café and a breathtaking view of the Rheingau. To walk to the lookout area you pass through grape vine covered awnings and sweet smelling red rose bushes.
Schloss Johannisberg has been making Riesling for over 900 years and they are known for creating the first late harvest wine, called ‘Spätlese’.
The entire trip was a magical day and a great change from the normal road trip. Contact Mr Gottfried Schuth’s horse and carriage tours for more information to making your ordinary weekend very extraordinary!
About the author: Gemma is a mom, a veteran and an Army civilian living in Wiesbaden, Germany. With New Jersey roots, she is enjoying her extended European vacation.
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