It is unquestionably one of the world’s most compelling rivers, rich in history and folk legend. From its source in the Swiss 
Alps, it flows north-west through France, Germany and Holland to meet the North Sea near Rotterdam. Part of its course is a World Heritage Site, marked by castles, vineyards and picturesque old towns. It is, as you’ve no doubt guessed, The Rhine.
Photo by curran.kelleher
You’re sure to see it if you’re travelling to any extent through Europe, because, somewhere along the way, your pathways will collide. And, if you’re there between May and September, make a point of heading to the German section to see it “in flames”. Each summer, between May and September, there are spectacular firework displays at five points, on five different nights: a festival known as Rhein in Flammen (The Rhine in Flames). Viewing is free from the riverbank, but a boat is the ideal vantage point and worth splurging on. Book your accommodation in the area as soon as possible, or run the risk of missing out. All five days are popular with Rhinelanders as well as tourists! Here are the 2008 dates:
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3 May: Bonn & the Siebengebirge. The first night and the longest stretch of river (17km), taking in Linz, Remagen, Rheinbreitbach, Unkel, Bad Honnef, Königswinter, Niederdollendorf and the German capital, Bonn. A massive spectacle, including 2000 Bengal lights and a large fleet of ships.
5 July: Night of Fire Magic. Between Bingen and Rüdesheim, in the heart of wine country. Castles, hillsides, ancient
churches and centuries-old villages, a fleet of decorated boats and breathtaking illuminations from the river “in flames”.
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9 August: Spay/Braubach – Koblenz. Absolutely spectacular: 17 km, 70 Rhine steamers, romantic backdrop of fortified hillsides, old palaces, ruined castles and ridiculously picturesque buildings, plus eight separate firework displays.
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15 September: Lorelei Night. Magical, magical. In one of the narrowest parts of the gorge, at the twin towns of St Goar and St Goarshausen near the legendary Lorelei Rock. The two small towns face one another from opposite banks of the river. Four different firework displays, illuminating the river and ruined castles
Photo by roblisameehan
The pyrotechnics and local festivities are undoubtedly the drawcard for The Rhine in Flames festival, but this is also one of Germany’s most beautiful areas, so don’t overlook the chance of exploring it! The easiest way of getting to the area is by train; there’s a rail service right through the Rhine Gorge.