Located in the Mittelrheintal, Urbar is a smaller community surrounded by nature on the hills along the Rhine. From Urbar, beautiful hiking trails run through nature where you can enjoy stunning views.
Urbar, a village on the heights of the Rhine opposite the legendary Loreley rock, was first mentioned in 1246 and belonged to the Electorate of Trier for several centuries as part of the district of Oberwesel. In 1798, it was assigned to the canton of St. Goar and later became part of the French Empire for a short time. From 1816, Urbar becomes Prussian as a municipality in the mayor’s office of St. Goar-Land, and from 1945 in the St. Goar office. Municipal independence ends in 1974 with the incorporation into the town of Oberwesel. In 1999, the efforts to separate from Oberwesel are rewarded and Urbar is once again an independent municipality.
Urbar is a small, charming village located near the town of Oberwesel in the Middle Rhine Valley (Mittelrheintal), Germany. Here’s a more detailed look at Urbar and its surroundings:
Geography and Location
– Proximity: Urbar is situated just a few kilometers north of Oberwesel, a historic town on the left bank of the Rhine River. The village is nestled in the picturesque hills that characterize the Middle Rhine Valley.
– Scenery: Like much of the Mittelrheintal, Urbar offers stunning views of the Rhine River, surrounded by vineyards, forests, and rolling hills.
Historical and Cultural Aspects
– Architecture: Urbar, like many communities in the region, features traditional German architecture, including half-timbered houses and historic buildings.
Local Attractions
– Views and Lookouts: Urbar is known for its beautiful vantage points. The Maria Ruh viewpoint, for example, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Rhine River and the famous Lorelei Rock.
– Hiking and Nature: The area around Urbar is ideal for hiking. Trails lead through vineyards and forests, offering picturesque views of the valley. The Rheinsteig hiking trail passes nearby, which is a popular route for hikers exploring the Middle Rhine.
Nearby Oberwesel
– History and Architecture: Oberwesel is renowned for its medieval walls and towers, the Gothic Church of Our Lady (Liebfrauenkirche), and the imposing Schönburg Castle, which dates back to the 12th century.
– Wine Culture: Oberwesel, like Urbar, is part of the Rhine wine region. The local wineries produce excellent Riesling wines, and visitors can enjoy wine tastings and tours.
– Festivals and Events: Oberwesel hosts various cultural events and festivals, including the annual “Rhein in Flammen” (Rhine in Flames), where fireworks illuminate the river and the surrounding castles.
Lifestyle and Community
– Tranquility: Urbar offers a peaceful and serene lifestyle, typical of small villages in the Middle Rhine Valley. It is a place where the local community values tradition and a close connection to nature.
– Accessibility: While Urbar is a small and quiet village, it is easily accessible from larger towns and cities in the region, making it a convenient base for exploring the Middle Rhine Valley.
Economic Activities
– Viticulture: The cultivation of vineyards is a significant economic activity in Urbar, contributing to the region’s reputation for producing high-quality wines.
– Tourism: The picturesque setting and historical significance of the Middle Rhine Valley attract tourists, providing economic benefits to local businesses, including guesthouses, restaurants, and shops.
Urbar, with its scenic beauty, historical charm, and proximity to notable towns like Oberwesel, exemplifies the allure of the Middle Rhine Valley. It’s a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and tranquil village life.