Ahr Valley Wine Region

The Ahr is one of the northernmost wine regions in the world and unusual for making mostly red wine, chiefly Spätburgunder, on steep dark slate terraces that hold heat in a narrow sheltered valley. The Rotweinwanderweg, a red wine hiking trail, runs about thirty-five kilometres along the slopes. In July 2021 the valley was struck by a flood that killed more than a hundred and thirty people and destroyed houses, bridges, railway and many cellars along the river. Rebuilding has continued since, with many producers back in operation, though infrastructure and some villages remain visibly affected.

The main sights

• The slate terraces - steep dark stone slopes holding heat for red grapes.
• The red wine trail - a thirty-five-kilometre path along the vineyards.
• The rebuilding - visible recovery work following the 2021 flood.
• Ahrweiler's walls - a walled old town with timber-framed houses.

When to go

May to October; harvest and wine festivals fall in autumn. Check the state of specific villages, transport and accommodation before travelling, as recovery is uneven.

Practical notes

The 2021 flood damage is still visible and some businesses, bridges and rail services have not returned. Check what is open before planning a route.

Nearby

Bonn lies north; the Eifel rises west.