Enkirch

Historic wineries here, lovingly carved street signs there — no matter where you look, Enkirch is a festival of remarkable carpentry.

The village boasts a long and proud heritage, including an old centre chock full of fantastically preserved stone and half-timbered houses. A tour of the historic village is truly a must for any visitor.

A massive building built over the street already housed a retirement home on a private basis in 1338 - the so-called "hospital". Other architectural events are "Drilles im Spilles" a revolving cage in the playhouse, a type of punishment in the 16th Century and the "Krieger'sche Haus" by Matthias Faller built in 1675, was one of the largest on the Middle Moselle with its 5 floors.

As an example, the Tourist Information Centre can provide a small brochure to lead curious minds to the former police jail of 1883. Another fascinating stop: Enkirch's oldest half-timbered house, built in 1523 and restored from the ground up by a lover of the half-timbered style.

One special gem in this town is the Protestant church with its “Bellows House” in front. The structure was erected in 1761, as the church itself lacked space inside for this crucial part of its organ.

The Heimatstuben Museum is also well worth a visit, not least for its ‘Privy Counsellors Wine Room’. But do remember to save that call for the end of the tour. Visitors to the 350-year-old half-timbered house will enjoy not just an exhibition on the history of Enkirch, but also a choice of well over 100 wines from the town’s winegrowers.