Dernau Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Dernau with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the must-visit sites, best things to do, food and drink scene, and much more.


Introduction to Dernau

Dernau is a charming village located in the Eifel mountains, in the Rhineland-Palatinate region of Germany. This picturesque village is famous for its scenic vineyards, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures. Dernau is an ideal destination for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and wine connoisseurs. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will cover everything you need to know about visiting Dernau - from the must-visit sites to the best things to do, food and drink scene, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Dernau

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St. Laurentius Catholic Church: This historic church dates back to the 14th century and features beautiful stained-glass windows and a carved altarpiece.
  • Winzergenossenschaft Dernau eG: Visit this vineyard to sample some of the region’s famous wines and learn about how they’re made.
  • Ahrweiler Stadtmauer: Walk along the ancient walls of the neighbouring town of Ahrweiler, built by the Romans over 2000 years ago.

Natural Attractions of Dernau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ahrtal: Take a walk along the Ahrtal valley, through the vineyards and past stunning castles and historical landmarks.
  • Natur-und Geopark Vulkanland Eifel: Explore the enchanting landscape of the Eifel mountains, including volcanic lakes, forests, and wildlife reserves.
  • Rotweinwanderweg: Enjoy a hike along the famous red wine trail, which takes you along the hillsides of the Ahr valley, through vineyards and past scenic viewpoints.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dernau

Dernau is a haven for hikers and bikers with many trails to choose from. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Ahrtalweg: Follow the Ahrtalweg trail, which takes you through the heart of the Ahr valley. This route is ideal for both hiking and biking.
  • Rotweinwanderweg: The red wine trail mentioned earlier also offers stunning views for hikers and bikers.
  • Giant Sequoia Trail: This trail is a unique opportunity to see rare species of trees from North America, such as the giant sequoia and Douglas fir.

Best Things to Do in Dernau: Activities and Tours

  • Wine tasting: Take a tour of one of the local vineyards and sample the region’s famous wines.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Go hiking, biking, or horseback riding on one of the many trails surrounding Dernau.
  • Festivals: Plan your trip to coincide with one of the many festivals that take place in Dernau throughout the year, such as the Wine Festival or the Christmas Market.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dernau

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Dernau:

Day Activity
1 Visit Winzergenossenschaft Dernau eG and sample famous wines
2 Hike along the Rotweinwanderweg
3 Take a day trip to nearby Ahrweiler town
4 Explore the Giant Sequoia Trail
5 Attend a local festival or event
6 Cycle through the Ahrtal valley
7 Relax and enjoy the scenery

Food and Drink Scene of Dernau

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sauerbraten: A local meat dish that’s marinated in vinegar for several days, then prepared with a sweet and sour sauce.
  • Dernauer Flammkuchen: A traditional German dish consisting of a thin crust pizza, topped with onions, bacon, and crème fraîche.
  • Riesling: Dernau’s famous Riesling wine is a must-try for any wine enthusiast.

Local Beverages:

  • Wine: Dernau is famous for its wine production, particularly the Riesling and Spätburgunder varieties.
  • Beer: Try the local beers, such as the Ahrsteig and the Ahrtonic, which are brewed in the region.

Where to Stay in Dernau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Pension am Ahrtor: A charming guesthouse located in the heart of Dernau, close to all major attractions.
  • Landgasthaus Keuler: A cosy hotel located on the outskirts of Dernau, surrounded by vineyards and scenic vistas.
  • Hotel LING Bao: A luxurious spa hotel with beautiful views of the Eifel mountains.

What to Buy in Dernau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wine: Bring home a bottle or two of the famous Dernau Riesling or Spätburgunder wine.
  • Ahr Valley ceramics: Buy locally handcrafted ceramics, including pitchers, plates, and mugs, that reflect the region’s heritage and culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Dernau

Dernau is located in a predominantly Catholic region and has many customs and traditions associated with the church. The local festivals, such as the Wine Festival and Christmas Market, are important cultural events that bring together the community. Visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Dernau

The best time to visit Dernau is from May to October when the weather is suitable for outdoor activities and the vineyards are in full bloom. However, the region is picturesque all year round and each season has its own charm.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dernau

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take time to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
  • Try the local wines and cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash on the trails or in public spaces.
  • Wear inappropriate clothing to religious sites.
  • Be disrespectful towards the local culture and people.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dernau

Dernau is a safe destination with low crime rates. However, it’s advisable to take standard safety precautions and keep valuables secure.

Health in Dernau

There are no major health concerns associated with Dernau. However, visitors should take the necessary precautions, such as staying hydrated on hikes, and bringing any necessary medication or medical supplies.

Getting to Dernau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dernau

The nearest airports to Dernau are:

  • Cologne Bonn Airport (54 miles)
  • Frankfurt Airport (104 miles)

Bus Stations Near Dernau

  • Bus station Ahrbrück (3.5 miles)
  • Bus station Sinzig (5.5 miles)

Other Options

It’s advisable to rent a car and travel to Dernau by road. This gives tourists the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Dernau

The best way to get around in Dernau is by bike or foot. Both options allow visitors to take in the gorgeous surroundings and explore at their own pace. Taxis and buses are also available for those who prefer not to walk or cycle.

Where to Go Next from Dernau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Dernau is located in an area of Germany that is rich in history and culture. Visitors can extend their trip by exploring nearby destinations such as:

  • Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler
  • Bonn
  • Cologne
  • Nürburg
  • The Eifel National Park

Conclusion

Dernau offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Germany. Whether it’s hiking along the stunning trails or sampling the famous local wines, there’s something for everyone in this charming village. Plan your trip with this comprehensive tour guide and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Dernau.

Dernau from Krausberg Dernau from Krausberg