On this hike we had to drive a little further to Koblenz in Germany. The tour led for a large part through the city forest of Koblenz, but started in a village. The distance was 21 km with a total ascent of 860 m. The route almost always led through forest to the Rhine, then back along the city limits of Koblenz. For the most part we were able to walk completely alone. Especially the first two and the last two hours were almost completely on our own. However, at the end there was a steep ascent without a recognizable path, which was a bit strenuous at the end of the tour. Furthermore we had to overcome some hurdles in the form of felled trees on the way, which seemed impenetrable at first. Fortunately we managed to get through them.
In this video, I go on a hike around Koblenz, one of Germany’s most historic cities, beautifully located at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Known for its castles, vineyards, and rich history, Koblenz is surrounded by landscapes that are perfect for hiking. In November, the atmosphere changes: the vines turn golden, the forests shed their leaves, and the light of late autumn gives the region a quiet, almost reflective mood.
Koblenz itself is famous for the Deutsches Eck (German Corner), where the Rhine and Moselle meet beneath a monumental statue of Emperor Wilhelm I. From here, the rivers flow through valleys lined with castles, vineyards, and forests. Hiking in the hills around Koblenz allows you to see the city from above and enjoy sweeping views across the two valleys. In November, these views are often enhanced by mist in the valleys and the soft glow of autumn sunlight on the hillsides.
The hike begins near the city and soon leads into the vineyard slopes that surround the Rhine and Moselle. Even in late autumn, the vineyards are striking. Some rows of vines still hold onto golden leaves, while others are bare, their lines cutting across the hills in neat patterns. These paths are part of the long tradition of winemaking in the region, one of the most important winegrowing areas in Germany.
From the vineyards, the trails climb toward the forests above the valleys. In November, the ground is covered in leaves, the trees are mostly bare, and the air carries the crisp scent of autumn. The openness of the forest at this time of year reveals hidden views of the river valleys, castles perched on ridges, and small villages nestled below. With fewer hikers on the trails, the forest feels calm and quiet, perfect for reflection.
Along the way, the hike reveals some of the historic sites that make Koblenz and its surroundings so special. The Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, one of Europe’s largest preserved fortresses, dominates the landscape above the Rhine. Hiking routes often pass viewpoints where this immense structure stands out against the backdrop of the river. Scattered chapels, towers, and ruins also appear along the trails, each a reminder of the region’s long and eventful past.
The views across the Rhine and Moselle valleys are some of the highlights of hiking around Koblenz. From the ridges, you can see how the rivers wind through the hills, with vineyards, forests, and villages spread across the slopes. In November, the colours are softer, the days shorter, and the light more golden, making the scenery feel timeless and peaceful.
One of the unique aspects of hiking here is the mix of culture and nature. Koblenz combines urban history with rural landscapes, allowing you to move from city streets to quiet forest trails in just a short walk. This blend gives the hike variety and richness—one moment you are looking at centuries-old fortifications, and the next you are standing in silence among the trees or overlooking endless vineyards.
The atmosphere of November hiking is special. The region is quieter than in summer, when river cruises and festivals fill the valleys. Instead, you find a calm rhythm, with mist rising from the rivers in the morning, villages lying still in the valleys, and the sun setting early over the hills. Every detail—whether a frost-covered vineyard or ivy on an old stone wall—stands out more clearly in this season.
This video captures the impression of hiking around Koblenz in November: vineyard paths, forest trails, sweeping river views, and encounters with history along the way. It is not a step-by-step guide but an overview of the mood, atmosphere, and beauty of the area in late autumn.
For travelers, Koblenz is more than just a city—it is a gateway to the Rhine and Moselle valleys, two of Germany’s most iconic landscapes. Hiking here combines stunning scenery, historic depth, and seasonal charm. Whether you explore for a few hours or a full day, November in Koblenz offers a unique experience of calm, culture, and nature.