The Saale-Unstrut region is also called the “Tuscany of the north” where vineyards and orchards cover the river banks of Saale and Unstrut in gorgeous colours. Splendid castles and palaces can be found on hills of shell limestone and mottled sandstone, and medieval towns, abbeys and magnificent cathedrals line the roads along the two rivers; roads which were paved for kings and merchants in the Middle Ages.

Sample some of the wines along the Vineyard Road (Weinstrasse) of Saale-Unstrut. There’s a network of bicycle paths through the vineyards, and you can stop off for a free tasting along the route.