RHINE VALLEY
BACHARACH
DAYS 3 - 4
Haarlem to Bacharach
Today we met our talented and fun-loving driver Richard and boarded his impeccable Volvo tour bus.
We departed Haarlem for our second destination, Bacharach, along the Rhine River. Looking at the cute little town from the road, my initial impression was that there was not much here to see; however, our local tour guide did not disappoint and took us on a walking tour of the local area, climbing the beautiful hillsides covered with grapevines with an impressive view. We later toured the medieval Rheinfels Castle in St. Goar. We happened to be visiting Europe during a heat wave and it was a humid day. We were fortunate to travel back to Bacharach via a riverboat cruise on the Rhine River, enjoying the beautiful landscape, small towns and castles along the way.
On the Way to St. Goar Castle
A majority of our group chose to walk the steep incline to the St. Goar Castle. We fortunately took a break halfway up for a breathtaking view of the entire town, including the gently flowing river with little buildings hugging each side of the riverbanks.
Wine Critiques
After our big day we had some time to freshen up, and then we gathered again and enjoyed a wine carousel.  Discussing, grading and critiquing the wine samples we were given. It made for a good laugh and a wonderful way to get to know our group members a little bit more.
