Pretty train journey is ‘best’ in Europe this winter – easy to get to from UK

A picturesque train journey that passes through some of the most scenic landscapes in Europe has been named the “best” in the continent. The ride between the Moselle and Rhine in Germany is easily to get to from the UK. 

The Eurostar can whisk you from London to Brussels in just two hours. From Brussels, a train journey via Luxembourg to Trier, Germany, takes a little over four hours.

The route follows the Moselle River, offering breathtaking views of vineyards, charming villages like Cochem, and the iconic Reichsburg Castle, and was awarded the accolade by The Guardian.

From Koblenz, you can head along the Rhine River, particularly the UNESCO-listed Middle Rhine Valley. The journey is dotted with medieval castles, steep vineyards, and towns like Bacharach and Boppard. The Moselle and Rhine regions are renowned for their wine, particularly Riesling.

The Moselle is a picturesque region centered around the Moselle River, which flows through France, Luxembourg, and Germany before joining the Rhine at Koblenz. 

It is renowned for its stunning landscapes, historic towns, and world-class wine production, particularly Riesling.

The area is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in Europe, famous for its steep terraced vineyards.

The Moselle River valley is ideal for hiking, cycling, and river cruises, offering breathtaking views of the vineyards and charming villages.

Take the cog railway from Königswinter up to the cragged summit of the Drachenfels (Dragon’s Rock) to discover a landscape full of Wagnerian splendour and a quirky monument to the composer. Taking a day tripo to Bonn should be worthwhile, reports The Guardian.

From Königswinter take the train following the Rhine downstream to Cologne for a quick peek at the city’s awesome gothic cathedral.

A four-day Interrail pass, valid for four travel days within a month, allows you to complete the London-Trier-Königswinter-Aachen-London route. Current promotional prices are £181 for adults, £135 for youth (under 28), and £362 for families (two adults and two children under 12).

Note that Eurostar travel requires an additional supplement of approximately £26 per person each way for pass holders.