Pictures: Surprises around every bend

Swirling mists and low, scudding clouds add to the aura of mystery which sometimes cloaks the Rhine River, Europe's first superhighway.

Swirling mists and low, scudding clouds add to the aura of mystery which sometimes cloaks the Rhine River, Europe's first superhighway.

Nazir Alli would love this: Pfalzgrafenstein Castle was an impossible-to-ignore toll gate on the river.

The Rhine, seen here at the confluence with the Mosel River, is a vital European transport artery, navigable from Basel to Amsterdam.

The climate of the Rheingau region is ideal for wine production.

The modern sits comfortably alongside the old in Koblenz.

Cruise service fit for royals

Cologne's massive cathedral is lit up at night.

The state room on the SS Antoinette.