The Enchantment of Lorelei Rock, Germany
Published on January 01, 2012 by Vanessa Boiser
Country: Germany 
The Experience
A tragic tale of a woman in love and betrayed, Lorelei Rock is a tourist destination in Germany that a lot of people visit to experience its bewitching tale. Lorelei (sometimes spelt as “Loreley”) was derived from an old German word “lureln” meaning murmuring, and an old Celtic word “ley” meaning rock—giving it its name of Murmuring Rock. The truth is, because of the strong current and the sound of the small waterfall near the foot of Lorelei Rock, the murmuring sound is echoed by the big rock. The murmur could be clearly heard at the time of its naming, but since urbanization around the area, the sound has diminished over time.
Legend has it that because of the tragic love affair of a blond siren, she continues to haunt sailors and unwary passersby. Town folks attributed the many shipwrecks and accidents to the disturbed soul of the lovely young lady who died because of love.
The first thing you notice upon arriving at Sankt, St. Goarshausen at the Rhine River bank, is the emerald green and sometimes sapphire blue waters of the Rhine River. As they say, its colour depends on nature’s mood. It is always a wonderful sight to behold when its deep and sometimes turbulent waters change their hues.
A romantic river boat ride on the River Rhine is the best way to see Lorelei Rock up close. The ride allows tourists to experience both the Rhine River and Lorelei Rock at the same time, and is very much a joint experience. The legend of the Lorelei Rock is always accompanied by the mysterious sound of the River, and the beauty and magnificence of one is very best attributed by the other.
Castles and sightseeing balconies add to the attraction of Lorelei Rock, and tourists climb up its steep hill to experience the many medieval castles and modern-day features. Up on top of the Murmuring Rock, with the mixture of the river and mountain breeze, the view of the Rhine is even more breathtaking. There are so many things to see and experience on top of Lorelei Rock, and medieval and modern-day adventures are top itineraries of the day. Because Lorelei Rock and Rhine River are two of Germany’s top tourist attractions, almost nothing has changed in the way they have preserved the castles and other sights as seen from the top of the Murmuring Rock. A feeling of being transformed to a time of knights and noble ladies can be felt. Visitors also enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting from nearby vineyards, as well and delectable German and European cuisine.
Legend has it that because of the tragic love affair of a blond siren, she continues to haunt sailors and unwary passersby. Town folks attributed the many shipwrecks and accidents to the disturbed soul of the lovely young lady who died because of love.
The first thing you notice upon arriving at Sankt, St. Goarshausen at the Rhine River bank, is the emerald green and sometimes sapphire blue waters of the Rhine River. As they say, its colour depends on nature’s mood. It is always a wonderful sight to behold when its deep and sometimes turbulent waters change their hues.
A romantic river boat ride on the River Rhine is the best way to see Lorelei Rock up close. The ride allows tourists to experience both the Rhine River and Lorelei Rock at the same time, and is very much a joint experience. The legend of the Lorelei Rock is always accompanied by the mysterious sound of the River, and the beauty and magnificence of one is very best attributed by the other.
Castles and sightseeing balconies add to the attraction of Lorelei Rock, and tourists climb up its steep hill to experience the many medieval castles and modern-day features. Up on top of the Murmuring Rock, with the mixture of the river and mountain breeze, the view of the Rhine is even more breathtaking. There are so many things to see and experience on top of Lorelei Rock, and medieval and modern-day adventures are top itineraries of the day. Because Lorelei Rock and Rhine River are two of Germany’s top tourist attractions, almost nothing has changed in the way they have preserved the castles and other sights as seen from the top of the Murmuring Rock. A feeling of being transformed to a time of knights and noble ladies can be felt. Visitors also enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting from nearby vineyards, as well and delectable German and European cuisine.
When to Go to Lorelei Rock
Just like the rest of Germany, summer time is the best time to visit darling Lorelei Rock and its constant companion the River Rhine. It is also the perfect time to witness the summer fireworks festival. Other places in the area, like the Rheinfels Castle ruins and the underground tunnel, are good attractions for those looking for a bit of adventure.
Odds n' Ends
Do not be afraid to spend a day or two in Sankt, St. Goarshausen. There are plenty of fabulous hotels in the area, and wide choices of restaurants and pubs. You might also want to visit its nearby towns: Bacharach, Oberwesel, and Boppard, where you can enjoy strolling at the town square or riding the chairlift in Boppard, which is another fun way to see its vast vineyards.
There is also a local wine store that is open all year round, although their main theme is Christmas. They offer wine tasting, a wine tour, and a lot more besides. If your timing is right, you might even receive a personal letter from Santa Claus!
There is also a local wine store that is open all year round, although their main theme is Christmas. They offer wine tasting, a wine tour, and a lot more besides. If your timing is right, you might even receive a personal letter from Santa Claus!
Places to Stay Nearby
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With its central location, Hotel Zum Goldenen Lowen is within easy reach of most tourist attractions and business addresses in Sankt Goar.The Hotel Zum Goldenen ... 0 miles away
$48 EUR+
Discover all that Sankt Goar has to offer with Rheinhotel St. Goar as a base.The Rheinhotel St. Goar boasts a convenient location with modern amenities ... 0 miles away
$50 EUR+
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Elsewhere on the Web
- Encyclopedia Mythica
- According to German legend, there was once a beautiful young maiden, named Lorelei, who threw herself headlong into the river in despair over a faithless lover. Upon her death she was transformed into a siren and could from that time on be heard singing on a rock along the Rhine River, near St. Goar. Her hypnotic music lured sailors to their death. The legend is based on an echoing rock with that name near Sankt Goarshausen, Germany.
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