Terraced vineyards and craggy slopes. Twists, turns and dramatic drops. The home of Riesling wine and some of Europe’s steepest vineyards. The meandering Moselle Valley is the site of Germany’s oldest city and is the birthplace of Karl Marx.

Take a bird’s eye view of one of the prettiest towns in the Moselle Valley, as you ride the chairlift over half-timbered houses and a thousand year old castle in Cochem. Explore the 11^th century castle ruins in Beilstein and visit the ancient city of Trier – the hometown of Karl Marx. Arrive in Koblenz, at the junction of the Moselle and the Rhine, and climb the headland to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress to look back down to the confluence. Experience the grand abbey of Maria Laach, or sail across the crater-lake of Laacher See, and view the magnificent building from the water. Prepare to be blown away by Burg Eltz, the most fairytale-like of the Moselle castles. Explore the history of gem-cutting in the precious stone factory, or let your hair down on the rollercoaster rides at Phantasialand.

One of the most varied river valleys of Europe, students will be stunned by the area’s natural beauty and historic splendour. With endless educational opportunities, curriculum learning is made even more appealing when linked to the folklore and legends of the region. STS offers accommodation in authentic hotels, which overlook the Moselle, offering easy access to local excursions and further afield to the Rhineland.