A day out on the Middle Moselle
Moselsteig: walking around Ürzig and Graach
The Moselsteig lets you experience the Middle Moselle from more than just the riverbank. High-level trails, woodland paths and ever-changing views make the walks between Bernkastel-Kues, Ürzig and Traben-Trarbach a holiday experience in their own right.
Middle Moselle · Bernkastel-Kues, Ürzig and Traben-Trarbach
Which Moselsteig stages suit your stay?
Stages 11 and 12 are particularly relevant for a holiday in Ürzig or Graach. Stage 11 links Bernkastel-Kues with Ürzig, while stage 12 runs from Ürzig to Traben-Trarbach. These stages therefore pass directly through popular places to visit and one of the villages where our holiday homes are based.
Both walks are point-to-point routes: you start in one place and finish in another. This is crucial when planning. Choose your stage not just for its viewpoints, but also with regard to how you will reach the start and return from the finish. You may also need to add the distance from your particular holiday home to the trail's starting point to the stage length.
Stage 11: Bernkastel-Kues to Ürzig
The official description gives stage 11 a distance of around 17 kilometres and a walking time of about five and a half hours. It is rated as moderately difficult. Places and stops along the described route include Zeltingen-Rachtig and the former Machern monastery. Places to stop for refreshments are also mentioned.
You can combine the walk with a visit to Bernkastel-Kues beforehand, but should then avoid starting too late. A stroll through the old town, breaks and the walk together take considerably longer than the walking time alone. For guests in Graach, this stage is also an opportunity to explore the surrounding vineyard landscape more closely using the official map, rather than choosing a starting point at random.
Stage 12: Ürzig to Traben-Trarbach
Visit Mosel gives the stage from Ürzig to Traben-Trarbach a distance of around 15 kilometres and a duration of about five hours. This walk is also described as moderately difficult. The route begins with a climb out of Ürzig, then follows a high-level trail with views into the Moselle Valley.
According to the route description, the walk includes narrow woodland paths, steps and a steeper climb to the Burgberg. It finishes in the Traben part of town. If you still have energy after the walk, you can explore the town afterwards. However, do not schedule a cellar tour or a longer town walk so tightly that every break during your hike becomes a problem.
Equipment, weather and your return journey
The stated walking times are estimates for planning, not guarantees for your own pace. Bring enough water, clothing suited to the weather and footwear with good grip. Changes in elevation and varied paths make these walks more demanding than a riverside stroll. If a whole stage is too long for you, seek advice on a suitable shorter section.
Check current trail notices, the weather forecast and your return journey in advance. For stage 11, the official description specifically notes irregular bus services and possible restrictions at weekends, on public holidays and during school holidays. Do not therefore assume that a suitable bus will be available whenever you arrive at the finish.
Good to know
- Which stage starts in Ürzig?
- Stage 12 runs from Ürzig to Traben-Trarbach. It is described as around 15 kilometres long, taking about five hours.
- Are the two stages circular walks?
- No. Stages 11 and 12 each connect two places. Arrange your outward and return journeys before setting off.
- Is the Moselsteig an easy walking path here?
- Both stages described are rated as moderately difficult and include climbs. Choose a route suited to your fitness and check the current route details.
