This unforgettable journey elevated my love of wine hikes to new heights!
Imagine this: a captivating six-kilometer (3.73 miles) trail winding through picturesque vineyard terraces, nestled amidst stunning sandstone walls, and weaving through the iconic locales of Bad Dürkheim from Michelsberg to the Roman villa. The vineyards come alive in a spectacular display of magic lights, casting vibrant hues and illuminating columns that dance amidst the vines, transforming the landscape into a breathtaking spectacle.
I've never seen anything quite like it!
Pertinent Details:
Bad Dürkheim Events:
2024 Weinbergnacht Facebook Event:
Bad Dürkheim Official Website:
Time:
5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
2024 Dates:
March 1st - March 2nd (Friday & Saturday)
We arrived at 3:30 pm and parked at this location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pGdGqNZUgKqFFexU8
Another parking suggestion would be:
Enjoy this small little video clip above.
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Map of the route and starting point above!
Thanks to Marni for providing that to us.
For more events by her in the KMC, check out:
Note: This is a ticketed event. I purchased my tickets online through their website, and there was no other option but to receive my ticket via mail. I then brought my ticket to the starting point (next to where the wurstmarkt is held) and exchanged it for my wine glass, a pamphlet that held my wine-tasting vouchers (to hand to the vendors), and a wine vendor guide.
However, you do NOT need a ticket to do the wine walk. If you want to simply walk around, there's nothing to stop you. From what I understand, though, you will be unable to participate in the wine tastings offered throughout without a ticket.
If you would like to purchase food, bring cash.
I hate traffic and finding parking lots when things get crazy, so we started our day around 3:30 pm! This event was about 55 minutes from my house, and we made excellent timing with just a little bit of extra Friday traffic on our way.
When we arrived, we parked in the parking lot, where the Dürkheimer Wurstmarkt is held next to the photographic wine barrel you see us posing with above! We then walked over to Bäcker Görtz (bakery) with food and wine and waited for everything to start!
Note: At the bakery, I can recommend their secco, sandwiches, and chocolate mousse cake!
I was definitely glad I arrived early after glimpsing this long line of traffic!
Also, this long line to get our glasses and wine tickets!
This is the section to pay attention to because... mistakes were made.
This is a VERY busy event. It's really cool, and everyone knows it too! If you do not like crowds, do not come to this!!! We were constantly jostled, waiting in lines, and weaving through tight spaces. I was a little too sober for this, and it ruined some of the fun for me (I had to drive home).
My advice is to go early, start the event exactly at 5:00 pm, and get all your food and wine in first thing before the crowds descend! By 6:30 pm, it was packed.
Get a hotel for the night. There's almost no way to do this quickly. We got home a little after 11:00 pm, and I was so tired. Logistically, it makes sense to do this. However, because of the popularity of this event, I'm assuming you would have to reserve your lodging right when the event is being announced.
Check the weather and bundle up if temperatures are supposed to drop at night!
Bring your wine.
If you don't want to stand in crowded lines throughout the night and simply want to walk and enjoy the light show, I'd bring your own wines to drink later on in the night.
Per usual, there were some inclines to walk up and down, so be warned.
There were some bathrooms and numerous porta-potties throughout the hike at different stations (2-3 areas). You might want to bring some tissue with you in case things run out. This is always a last resort for me, but honestly, if you're drinking, I don't see you making it out without having to go at least once.
Note: Do NOT bring your dogs, children, or strollers/wagons. People did this, and honestly, it was a nightmare. I almost stepped on a dog twice, and those with strollers were having an extreme time getting through the crowds. Leave them at home. This event is too crowded, loud, dark, and busy.
It is very dark. It was so hard keeping track of the people we were with and finding each other! I would definitely suggest wearing some sort of lit clothing, lights, glow-in-the-dark items, or anything that would help you find those you are with!
Was it fun?
Yes.
Would I do things differently next time?
Hells yes.
The Almond Blossoms are blooming, so if you want, you can also go earlier for these!
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Thank you for being here.
Life is short. Live it well.
Yours truly, Allie
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