Miltenburg

During the night the ship left the Rhine River to sail along the Main River. About 120 kms from the Rhine River we moored near the main street of Miltenberg, a pretty and well preserved medieval city with the Miltenburg castle, a comfortable climb from the market square.

The town's original prosperity grew from trading privileges and the right to hold trade fairs granted in 1337 and it's role in the wine trade. The area's speciality being Pinot Noir.

Reddish sandstone is quarried here, and was used in the local buildings. It had been exported to Russia where it was used to build the Red Square.

One of Miltenburg's spectacular buildings is the "Giant's Inn", built in 1500 and is one of Germany's oldest taverns. We had a pleasant walk down the main street flanked by the half timbered houses of this quaint city. Once I got my breath back after walking up the pathway (note: the stairway is step and cobbled and those we spoke with told us of it is better to avoid) to the castle, the view to the river and township is well worth it.

Each night the ship's menu is designed to incorporate the local cuisine's of the area. The fresh cheeses are yummy, however I will have to 'cut back' on choosing them. Even the food is quite 'heavy'.