Germany prepares for food and wine festival

Britons heading across the channel to Germany will be able to sample some of the country's best food and drink in the Rheingau region.

Held at the Kronenschlosschen hotel on the banks of the river Rhine the Gourmet & Wine Festival runs for 13 days and allows visitors to try the finest local wine and food.

This year's festival starts on February 28th and runs until March 11th - allowing plenty of time for British holidaymakers to take a ferry to Germany and enjoy a relaxed drive down past Frankfurt to Rhiengau.

As well as tasting local culinary delights, visitors will be able to participate in culinary classes, watch demonstrations from award-winning chefs and enjoy musical events in the evening.

Highlights include a series of gala dinners at the upmarket hotel, alongside smaller events across the picturesque town.

The hill country of Rheingau is famous for its wines - in particular Riesling - and is a favourite destination for walkers.