Details

Graham is delighted by biodiversity, new hiking trails and a castle spotted alongside the vinyard sights of river Mosel (Moselle).

"The Mosel is shedding its uptight oenophile image and embracing its wild side, which is attracting wine-minded outdoor types to its steep, riesling-lined riverbanks", the writer explains in a NYT online topical page as well. According to Grahams findings, canoe and kayak outfitters are popping up along the undeveloped stretch of river - a rarity in Germany - home to rebounding populations of otters and kingfishers.

The outdoor enthusiast states: "Hikers can embark on the new 365 kilometer-long Moselsteig trail stretching from the French border to Koblenz, join Slow Mosel’s new 2016 tour to Luxembourg or join one of the biodiversity projects at Bauern und Winzerverbandes Rheinland-Nassau (a winemaker organization) that are protecting the riverbank’s stone walls, critical habitat for rare plants and endangered lizards." The NYT columnist closes with the following recommendation: "Travelers seeking a sip of old-school Mosel can stay at Schloss Lieser, a private castle-turned five-star hotel on a 27-acre riesling vineyard that opened in late 2015"

twitter: @AdamHGraham @NYtimes
hashtags: #52places #NYT