Lieser: Covered Wagon Ride, the Rolling Wine Tasting with Picnic Basket – A Unique Journey through the Moselle Valley
Imagine gliding through lush vineyards aboard a cozy covered wagon, sampling exceptional wines, and enjoying a regional picnic at a breathtaking lookout. That’s exactly what this experience offers—an engaging blend of leisure, education, and scenic beauty in the heart of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. The tour, hosted by Wein- und Gästehaus Genetsch, lasts roughly three hours and combines a relaxed wagon ride with insightful wine tasting stops, making it perfect for those who appreciate authentic landscapes and good vino.
What I love most about this experience is how it combines comfort and authenticity—the covered wagon keeps you dry and cozy while you take in the views of the Moselle vineyards. Plus, the stops at local vineyards aren’t just about tasting wine; they’re about understanding the region’s winegrowing philosophy, often with some fun facts from the guides like Frau or Herr Genetsch, who are known for their welcoming approach.
A little consideration to keep in mind: the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and if you’re someone who likes to browse or purchase wine to bring home, be aware that wine purchases are not included in the price. But for most, the value of the guided experience, the scenic stops, and the regional picnic make this a worthwhile indulgence.
Key Points and Takeaways
- Scenic Vineyards: Glide through the rolling slopes of Lieser and Kues, enjoying unobstructed views of the Moselle valley’s vineyards and cultural landscape.
- Authentic Wine Tasting: Sample wines directly from the vineyards visited, with insights into regional winegrowing philosophies.
- Comfortable Travel: The covered wagon ensures a relaxed ride, making it accessible for a wide age range and a fun alternative to walking tours.
- Educational and Fun: Guides share interesting facts about wine, winegrowing, and local traditions, making it both informative and enjoyable.
- Breathtaking Viewpoints: Stops at prominent vantage points offer picture-perfect moments and a chance to appreciate the landscape.
- Value for Price: For $56 per person, you receive a comprehensive experience including transportation, tastings, drinks, and a picnic, making it a good value for a three-hour activity.
Entering The Moselle Valley: The Experience Breakdown
This tour is an engaging way to explore the Moselle’s wine country without the fatigue of hiking or the expense of private chauffeur-driven tours. The experience begins at the Wein- und Gästehaus Genetsch in Lieser, where you’ll meet your guide, likely Frau or Herr Genetsch, both of whom have received glowing reviews for their friendly and informative approach. This warm welcome sets the tone for a relaxed, fun outing.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lieser.
The Covered Wagon Ride: A Scenic and Comfortable Journey
The core of the experience is the covered wagon ride through vineyards of Lieser and Kues. The wagon is well-protected, making it suitable in rain or shine—though most will appreciate the dry comfort on a rainy day. The ride lasts about 1.5 hours, passing by numerous vineyards that demonstrate the region’s careful winegrowing traditions. As someone who loves seeing landscapes from a gentle vantage point, I found that the wagon offers a perfect balance of scenery and comfort.
From reviews, it’s clear that the ride is both long enough to soak in the views and short enough to keep everyone engaged. The guides often crack jokes and share interesting facts, making the trip lively and personable. One traveler noted that the driver and guide, Herr Genetsch, were “very good and very funny,” which shows how much personality can enhance the experience.
Stops at Local Vineyards: Learning and Tasting
Along the way, you’ll make stops at various vineyards owned by the winery. These are not just photo ops—they’re educational opportunities, where guides explain the region’s wine philosophy and the specifics of vine cultivation. Tasting the wines directly from the vineyard adds to the authenticity, as you experience the flavors as they are meant to be enjoyed.
Most guests mention the quality of the wines — they are typical of the Moselle region, with a focus on regional varieties. One reviewer described the wines as “tolle Weine” (great wines), affirming the high quality. The tasting includes not only wine but also mineral water and grape juice, catering to different preferences.
The Picnic at a Stunning Viewpoint
One of the tour’s highlights is the regional picnic basket, waiting at a prominent vantage point. Expect a selection of local cheeses, bread, and perhaps some regional specialties—perfect for soaking up the wine and enjoying the spectacular scenery. The viewpoint offers sweeping views of the Moselle valley, making it a memorable photo opportunity.
Guests frequently mention how the combination of tasting, scenic views, and good company creates a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. The picnic, paired with wine, makes this part of the tour feel like an authentic local celebration.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Itinerary: What You Can Expect
- Start at Auf Zevenich 20 in Lieser, meeting the guides and settling into the wagon.
- 1.5-hour scenic ride through Lieser and Kues vineyards, with stops and engaging commentary.
- Vineyard visits where you learn about winegrowing and sample wines directly from the source.
- Scenic viewpoints for picture-taking and appreciation of the landscape.
- Regional picnic at a lookout point, allowing time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
- The tour concludes back at the starting point, with the option to purchase wines separately if you wish.
The entire experience is about 3 hours long, giving plenty of time to relax, take photos, and soak in the scenery.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is perfect for wine lovers who enjoy scenic landscapes and want a relaxed, guided experience that feels authentic. It’s also great for families or groups who want something different from a typical tour, especially since the wagon ride is comfortable and the pace is gentle.
However, it’s not wheelchair accessible, which is an important consideration for those with mobility challenges. The cost of $56 per person includes everything—transport, tastings, drinks, and a picnic—offering good value for a memorable three-hour outing.
If you’re seeking an activity that combines visual beauty, regional flavors, and a friendly guide, this experience checks all those boxes.
Price and Value Analysis
At $56 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded package: a scenic ride, multiple vineyard stops, wine tastings, and a picnic—all within three hours. When you consider that each stop involves education and sampling, plus the scenic views, it’s a good deal compared to other wine-related activities in the region. Plus, the all-inclusive approach means fewer extra costs, making it easier to plan your day.
While you aren’t included in the wine purchase, the quality of the wines sampled, along with the scenic value and educational content, makes this a worthwhile activity for those interested in local wine culture.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
In my view, this experience balances scenic beauty, local culture, and relaxed enjoyment. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the Moselle vineyards from a different perspective—on a wagon, with a glass of regional wine in hand, and surrounded by stunning views. The guides’ friendly approach and the opportunity to learn about winegrowing add a personal touch that many other tours lack.
For anyone curious about regional wines, looking for a family-friendly activity, or simply wanting to enjoy a leisurely day amid beautiful landscapes, this tour is a delightful choice. It’s a chance to slow down, appreciate the landscape, and connect with the local wine culture in an informal, memorable way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the experience is generally family-friendly, especially since it includes grape juice and a picnic. However, the tour lasts three hours and involves a wagon ride, so consider your children’s comfort with sitting for that duration.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about three hours, including the wagon ride, stops, tastings, and picnic.
Can I purchase wine during or after the tour?
Wine purchases are not included in the price, but you can buy wines directly from the vineyards if you wish.
Is the wagon ride accessible for everyone?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the wagon and terrain.
What languages are available during the tour?
The tour offers German and English guides, making it accessible for most visitors.
What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather; bring your camera for the stunning views. No need to bring anything else since drinks and the picnic are provided.
Is there any flexibility in booking?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, and there’s free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
To sum it up, this covered wagon experience through the Moselle vineyards offers a fantastic blend of comfort, education, and scenery. It’s especially suited for those who want to enjoy regional wines in an authentic setting without the fuss of formal tastings. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply seeking a relaxing scenic activity, this tour provides a memorable taste of Rhineland-Palatinate’s charming landscape.
You can check availability for your dates here: