Saale-Unstrut: Visiting Germany’s Northernmost Wine Region

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Today, I’m going to be telling you all about our visit to the wine region of Saale-Unstrut in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, which just so happens to be the northernmost of Germany‘s 13 wine-growing regions.

Saale-Unstrut is known for its quality wines and its wine history dates back over a thousand years, with the first vines being cultivated by monks in the year 998 AD!

This is a place where terraced vineyards come spilling down the hills, where medieval castles sit atop clifftops, and where churches stand guard in the heart of the old town. We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again – Germany has some pretty magical destinations to discover.

We did everything you might expect from a wine region – we toured vineyards, sampled wines, and even spent the night in a wine hotel. However, we also learned that Saale-Unstrut has plenty to offer beyond its wine. We also visited castles, climbed up to the attic of a cathedral, and took part in a forging workshop all in one day.

We had a really fun day experiencing Germany’s northernmost wine-growing region and below are some ideas for your own visit:

Things to Do, See, Eat, Drink & Experience in Saale-Unstrut, Germany

Visiting Germany's northernmost wine region Saale Unstrut as presented by an excited That Backpacker Audrey Bergner

Explore Freyburg on foot

We started the morning with a guided walk through the town of Freyburg, which is considered the wine capital of the region.

We found it to be a German town full of charm and very pleasant to walk around. Homes and businesses were painted in cheerful pastel shades, there were vines crawling up the side of buildings, and we also noticed rooftops with eye-shaped windows that kind of made it feel like we were being watched from above.

The town of Freyburg is considered the wine capital of Saale-Unstrut and has many distinct landmarks worth visiting in town

The church of St. Marien in Freyburg, Germany with macro detail views and colorful buildings in the foreground

During our walk through Freyburg, we visited St. Marien, a Lutheran church in the centre of town. It is considered the little sister of Naumburg Cathedral, which we would visit later on in the day.

Of course, the main thing that caught our attention walking through Freyburg is that we were surrounded by vineyards, vineyards and more vineyards! Yes, we knew we were visiting a wine town, but I don’t think we were expecting the vines to be right in the town and so accessible!

Shop for sparkling wines at Rotkäppchen

Speaking of wine, one of the most popular stops in Freyburg is Rotkäppchen-Mumm, a winery that dates back to 1856 and specializes in sparkling wines.

They make up nearly half the market for sparkling wine in Germany, and they’re also one of the five largest producers of sparkling wine in the world. So if you want to buy some Saale-Unstrut wines, this is the place to do so!

Sparkling wine art installation at Rotkäppchen-Mumm in Freyburg, Germany with individual hands holding distinct bottles of wine

They offer tours in German, but another option, if you don’t speak the language, is to just visit the shop and peruse their various sparkling wine offerings. Certain bottles can only be obtained at this particular location, so that alone makes it worth a visit.

Take in the views from Klosterkirche Zscheiplitz

There are plenty of incredible lookout points in Freyburg and the first one we visited was Klosterkirche Zscheiplitz, also known as St. Bonifatius.

From this point, you can enjoy views of the Unstrut River as well as small villages sprinkled across the valley below surrounded by nature.

Views of the wine valley from Klosterkirche Zscheiplitz high vantage viewpoint overlooking the town in Germany

Small scenic villages in Saale-Unstrut, Germany with cute farmhouses with traditional German roofs and architecture

Biking trails for a wine trip across Saale-Unstrut, Germany with bicycles plying the small path that crosses the town and farmland

This is probably a good time to tell you that cycling trips are really popular in this area and there is a wine route to follow. So if your idea of a good holiday is cycling through scenic countryside, hopping from one winery to the next, and stumbling upon a few castles along the way, well, this is the place with hundreds of kilometres of bike paths along the Saale and Unstrut rivers.

Enjoy a vineyard picnic

It wouldn’t have been a proper visit to a wine town without also having lunch at a vineyard!

We visited Herzoglicher Weinberg, which is a terraced vineyard that has been preserved in the style of a baroque vineyard from the late 18th century. It sits at the foot of the Unstrut River and it has Neuenburg Castle watching over it from above. This may very well be one of the most scenic vineyards we have ever visited!

Enjoying a vineyard picnic at Herzoglicher Weinberg in Freyburg, Germany with That Backpacker Audrey Bergner holding a glass of wine and food in the other hand

Tasting Pinot Blanc at Herzoglicher Weinberg in Freyburg - one of the most popular grape varieties in Saale-Unstrut, Germany worth trying

Vineyard picnic lunch at Herzoglicher Weinberg, Germany with an assortment of cheeses, deli meats, vegetables and olives on offer

Views of Neuenburg Castle from Herzoglicher Weinberg in Freyburg, Saale-Unstrut with vineyards and distinct landmarks as the focal point

Some of the grapes you can find in this vineyard include Pinot Blanc, Silvaner, and Pinot Noir. We tried a glass of their Pinot Blanc and Sam was exceedingly pleased by the fact that the wine glass was filled right to the very top! We accompanied our wines with a picnic-style lunch featuring cheese, salami, olives, stuffed peppers and dark bread.

It was just what we needed to keep us going and the setting was perfect!

Visit Schloss Neuenburg

After noticing Neuenburg Castle from the vineyard we just mentioned, we couldn’t resist driving up for a closer look.

Neuenburg Castle in Freyburg, Germany with views of the the cobblestone path leading to a building covered partially in ivy

Views of the wine valley from Neuenburg Castle highlighting how greenery and farmland dominate the landscapes dotted with houses

This castle was built around the year 1090 by the Thuringian count Ludwig the Leaper, and yes, there is a story behind his name.

According to local legend (which may have been quite embellished over time), after stabbing a ruling Count and then being incarcerated, Ludwig the Leaper leapt from a castle tower into the river. That’s where his servant was waiting for him with a boat and his favourite white horse named Swan, and so Ludwig the Leaper was able to make his perfect escape. That’s the guy who built this castle.

Sounds like the stuff of German fairy tales, but either way, it was a very cool place to visit and the views were as spectacular as you’d imagine.

Tour Naumburg Cathedral

Next up, we continued to the nearby town of Naumburg to visit Naumburg Cathedral, which recently was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Also known as the Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul, this is considered one of Europe’s most important cultural monuments from the high Middle Ages. What makes it unique is that it’s the only church in the world to contain two choir screens from the high medieval period.

Naumburg Cathedral also known as the Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul from a low and wide angle point showcasing its grand size

Sculptures in Naumburg Cathedral in the west choir with Christ on the Cross as a centrepiece feature in Germany

Statues depicting the top donors of Naumburg Cathedral was a unique and distinct feature we noticed during our visit in Germany

The main attraction is definitely the West Choir, which features 12 statues depicting the church’s top donors dating back to the mid-thirteenth century. Yes, if you gave enough money, you got a sculpture in your likeness placed right in the church for all to see!

These statues were crafted by a medieval stone sculptor now only known as the Naumburg Master. The most famous statue of all is Uta, who is said to depict the “most beautiful woman of the Middle Ages”. Rumour has it she may have also been the inspiration for the Evil Queen in Disney’s Snow White.

Inside the attic of Naumburg Cathedral, which can only be visited as part of a guided tour offering a unique behind the scenes experience

Medieval texts in the Cathedral Treasury Vault of Naumburg with beautiful font and designs that have been well preserved over the years

During our guided visit of Naumburg Cathedral, we got to climb up a spiralling staircase that led to the attic, which then led to one of the towers, where you can enjoy views of the town below. We also toured the Cathedral Treasury Vault, which is one of the largest Romanesque vaults in central Germany and houses sacral works of art.

The only way to access the attic and the treasury is as part of a public guided tour, but do keep in mind that the tour will be in German.

Forge a unique souvenir

Then, for our afternoon activity, we drove to Burgenlandschmiede for a forging workshop.

Sam has been super interested in this ever since he discovered the show Forged in Fire, so he jumped at the opportunity to spend an afternoon learning from a forge master.

Taking part in a forging workshop at Burgenlandschmiede is a smiling Nomadic Samuel ready to get to work and learn some new skills for the day

Learning to forge at Burgenlandschmiede is Nomadic Samuel as an apprentice for the day with local German talent to help mold his future

Burgenlandschmiede is part of the Handgemacht program in Saale-Unstrut and these are some of his works on display for those interested

We met Lukas who is part of the Handgemacht Program in Saale-Unstrut, where visitors can meet up with local craftsmen to take part in all sorts of workshops and experiences. You can meet with candy makers, beekeepers, woodworkers, and whiskey producers, so there are all sorts of experiences to be had based on your interests.

Over the course of a few hours, Sam learned how to make a log poker for the fireplace. The end result was a really cool souvenir with a unique travel story behind it.

Stay in a wine hotel

It wouldn’t have been a proper visit to the wine region of Saale-Untrut without spending the night in a wine hotel. Home for the night was the Freylich Zahn Weinhotel in Freyburg.

Staying at Freylich Zahn Weinhotel in Freyburg, Germany a charming wine hotel located in this unique wine region

The cool thing about this wine hotel is that they have their very own on-site wine bar, which is available 24 hours. The way it works is that you can load money on to a card, which you then scan at the wine bar in order to pour whichever wine you feel like sampling. They had everything from whites to rosés to reds, so it was a lot of fun having access to it.

Wine bar at Freylich Zahn Weinhotel in Freyburg, Germany with a full display of wines on offer and glasses above them

The hotel also has its own on-site restaurant called 51° Restaurant & Weinbar since this wine region sits along the 51° parallel. It’s a really cool restaurant in a cozy cavernous setting with dim lighting.

51° Restaurant & Weinbar in Freyburg, Germany views of the signboard outside with nearby ivy in all directions

Tasting German wines at 51° Restaurant & Weinbar in Freyburg with That Backpacker Audrey Bergner holding a glass in front of her

I had a delicious gnocchi with pumpkin, rucola and parmesan that was paired with a white wine. Meanwhile, Sam had the steak with roasted potatoes paired with a red wine, which I can confirm was exquisite.

And that was our visit to the wine region of Saale-Unstrut. We hope you enjoyed following along!

Outside 51° Restaurant & Weinbar in Freyburg with That Backpacker Audrey Bergner pointing towards the logo and bicycle covered in ivy

This trip was made possible in partnership with the German National Tourist Office and Saale-Unstrut Tourismus.

Beyond the Vineyards: Practical Tips, Advice & Experiences in Saale-Unstrut 🍇🍷

Full wine glasses on the table at Freyburg Unstrut, Germany

Zoom-Out Geography: Why Saale-Unstrut Is Special

StatWhat It Means
Latitude 51° NSame parallel as Champagne – cool nights = zesty acidity.
736 ha under vineGermany’s smallest quality-wine region → boutique feel.
1,000+ years of viticultureMonks, bishops, dukes & Soviet co-ops have all left their mark.
1–1.5 h from Leipzig / 2 h from Berlin by trainEasy add-on to a city break.

Getting There & Getting Around

First things first: Saale-Unstrut feels like a hidden world. However, it’s easy to reach! The main gateway is Leipzig (about an hour by train to Naumburg or Freyburg), but you can also arrive via Halle or even Berlin if you don’t mind a longer train ride.

  • By Train: Germany’s efficient regional rail system makes this trip a breeze. If you’re starting in Leipzig, you can be sipping wine in the vineyards within an hour. 🚆
  • By Car: Want to explore castles, hop between wineries, or take a DIY road trip? Renting a car gives you flexibility, especially if you want to chase golden-hour views or visit tiny hamlets off the beaten path.
  • On Two Wheels: If you’re feeling adventurous, bring or rent a bike. The Saale and Unstrut rivers are lined with well-marked cycling routes that meander past vineyards, sleepy towns, and lookout points.

Tasting Wine Like a Local

The wine scene in Saale-Unstrut is delightfully unpretentious. Most wineries are family-run, and tasting rooms (called Weingut) often feel more like a friend’s living room than a stuffy cellar.

  • What to Try: This region is known for crisp whites—think Müller-Thurgau, Silvaner, and Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc)—as well as dry rosés and some surprisingly complex reds (Pinot Noir, anyone?). The local Saale-Unstrut Riesling is a must for fans of mineral-driven wines.
  • How to Taste: Don’t be shy! The tradition is to taste first and then choose your favorite bottle to take home or enjoy in the vineyard. Many places offer “Probierpakete”—tasting flights that let you sample several wines for a small fee.
  • Snack Smart: Pair your tastings with a regional snack: crusty bread, tangy local cheeses, spicy “Unstrut sausage,” or a slab of onion tart (Zwiebelkuchen) if you’re visiting in autumn.
Nomadic Samuel forged in fire learning how to make a fire poker in Germany

Beyond the Bottle: More Unique Saale-Unstrut Experiences

This region isn’t just for wine lovers—there’s a lot more to uncover:

1. Explore Castles & Ruins with a Story

  • Neuenburg Castle: Perched above Freyburg, it’s a journey through medieval history with panoramic valley views. If you’re traveling with kids (or just a kid at heart), look for the interactive exhibits and climb the towers for the best photos.
  • Rudelsburg & Schönburg Castles: Both within an easy drive, these romantic ruins overlook river bends and make for dreamy sunset picnics. Pack some local cheese, a bottle of wine, and you’re set.

2. Embrace Outdoor Adventure

  • Canoeing the Unstrut River: Rent a kayak or canoe for a gentle paddle between riverside vineyards, with plenty of opportunities to stop for a picnic or wine tasting along the way. This is slow travel at its best!
  • Hiking the “Weinwanderweg”: The region’s wine trails are marked with signposts and info boards, making self-guided walks a breeze. Look out for “Weinausschank” huts—tiny wine stands in the vineyards open for hikers.

3. Dive into Local Culture

  • Craft Workshops: Try your hand at pottery, woodworking, or even candle-making with local artisans. (Sam’s blacksmithing adventure was the stuff of travel legend!)
  • Festivals: If you’re lucky enough to visit in September, don’t miss the “Federweißerfest”—a harvest festival where you can sample the first, still-fermenting new wine of the season (sweet, fizzy, and dangerously easy to drink).
  • Meet the Makers: Many small producers—cheese, honey, jam, and even local spirits—welcome visitors for tastings and farm tours. We stumbled upon a family-run goat cheese farm and left with a basket of goodies for a riverside picnic.
Hotel Unstrutal wine region in Germany

Where to Stay: Options for Every Style

Whether you’re a luxury traveler or a budget backpacker, Saale-Unstrut has you covered.

  • Wine Hotels: Like our stay at Freylich Zahn Weinhotel, many local hotels double as mini wine bars. Some even offer vineyard views or in-room tastings.
  • Guesthouses: Charming “Gästehaus” (guesthouses) in historic buildings are plentiful, often with breakfast spreads featuring homemade jams, local breads, and fresh fruit.
  • Countryside Camping: For nature lovers, riverside campsites and campervan spots let you sleep among the vines. Wake up to birdsong and mist rising over the valley.
Distinct medieval architecture in Saale-Unstrut wine region in Germany

Saale-Unstrut Travel Essentials: What to Pack & How to Plan

  • Bring Layers: Weather can shift quickly, especially in spring and autumn—think cool mornings and warm afternoons.
  • Comfy Shoes: Even if you’re just here to sip, you’ll be walking up vineyard slopes and cobbled lanes.
  • Cash is King: Not all wineries and village shops accept cards, so bring euros—especially for smaller purchases and markets.
  • Stay Flexible: Saale-Unstrut rewards curiosity. Leave space in your itinerary for spontaneous tastings, side trips, or local events you discover along the way.
Vineyard views from Saale Unstrut wine tourism in Germany

Two-Day Outline (Swirl, Sip, & Cycle)

TimeDay 1 – Freyburg & Vineyard Terrace
10 : 00Arrive Freyburg (train or car). Drop bags at Freylich Zahn Weinhotel.
10 : 30Altstadt stroll → photo stop at pastel Rathaus & St. Marien church.
11 : 15Guided tour & tasting at Rotkäppchen-Mumm. Pick up a Brut Rosé souvenir.
12 : 45Lunch at Café QuerKöstlich (seasonal flammkuchen + fresh Federweißer in autumn).
14 : 00Walk or e-bike to Herzoglicher Weinberg (15 min uphill). Vineyard picnic + Pinot Blanc flight.
16 : 00Continue up to Neuenburg Castle. Explore Romanesque double chapel, climb tower.
18 : 30Check-in, freshen up.
19 : 30Dinner at 51° Restaurant & Weinbar – try the regional tasting menu (4 courses, €48).
22 : 00Self-serve a final Schäumer at the 24-hr hotel wine bar.
TimeDay 2 – Naumburg & River Cycling
08 : 00Breakfast buffet (local honey, Riesling-jelly, fresh pretzels).
09 : 00Train or cycle (14 km) to Naumburg.
10 : 00Naumburg Cathedral tour + attic & treasury add-on (guides at 10 : 30 & 13 : 30).
12 : 00Grab sausage & Thüringer Senf at market square food truck.
13 : 00Rent bikes at Bahnhof → follow Saale Cycle Path (Saale-Radweg) back towards Freyburg (mostly flat, 23 km).
15 : 30Stop at Weingut Pawis in Zscheiplitz for a Silvaner & cheese board.
17 : 30Return bikes, collect luggage, toast farewell with a chilled Goldriesling on the station platform.
18 : 04Regional-Express to Leipzig / connect onward.

Grape Cheat-Sheet: What to Order & Why

VarietyStyle in Saale-UnstrutPairs WithPronunciation Hint
Müller-ThurgauLight, floral, easy summer sipSalads, goat cheese“MOO-ler TOOR-gow”
SilvanerHerbal nose, soft acidityAsparagus, river fish“Zil-VAH-ner”
Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc)Peach, almond, fresh mineralityRoast chicken, picnic fare“VICE-boor-GOON-der”
Blauer ZweigeltRare red here; juicy cherry notesCharcuterie, BBQ“TSVYE-gelt”
Saale-Unstrut SektMéthode traditionnelle sparkleCelebratory Prost!“Zekt

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