Rhine River Cruise-Germany; the Rhine Gorge

The Rhine Gorge is an approximate 40-mile stretch of the river, between Koblenz and Rüdesheim am Rhein. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical, cultural and geological significance. Passing through Germany's Upper Middle Rhine Valley, it is home to some of the river's most enchanting scenery, including an abundance of castles, cathedrals, vineyards and quaint villages. The Gorge is also home to the Loreley Rock, a 433-foot high steep, slate rock on the banks of the river. Legend has it that the beautiful mermaid, Loreley, sat on the cliff in the evenings, tempting shipmen with her beauty and songs and causing them to crash on the rocks and die. A statue of the mermaid can be found nearby, closer to the shore. I'm happy to report that our ship survived Loreley's wiles! ;)