Mercedes-Benz x Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg
A baroque setting, winding country roads, and the Bergisches Land stretching out before you. Mercedes-Benz and the Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg invite you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Connecting stars – Our collaboration
High above the Bergisches Land, with views stretching as far as Cologne Cathedral, lies the Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg. It is situated in the heart of a region renowned for its blend of nature and culture. As the Rhine winds its way past many picturesque villages, it is up to you to discover this hilly region, rich in industrial heritage, half-timbered houses and forests.
Follow the panoramic roads of the Siebengebirge, where every route tells its own story. That’s exactly why you deserve the perfect companion.
It was with this in mind that the partnership between the Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg and Mercedes-Benz was formed: two brands that share a commitment to quality and excellence – and which work together to ensure that your stay does not end at the castle gates. Reserve your choice of car before you arrive and discover a region that has more to offer than meets the eye.
Vehicles available
The selection of vehicles is updated on an ongoing basis. Please check the booking tool for the models currently available.
Recommended routes
You can’t really get a feel for the Bergisches Land in just one trip – it’s far too diverse for that. We’ve put together three routes, each showcasing a different side of the region: from gentle panoramic views of the Rhine to historic castles and the winding roads of the Ahr Valley.
The Siebengebirge & The Delights of the Rhine
approx. 165 kilometres | journey time approx. 3.5 hours (excluding stops)
The Rhine promenade, panoramic views across the valley and lunch right by the Rhine – this route showcases the Rhineland at its most relaxed.
Route description: Leave the Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg heading towards Overath and follow the country roads via Rösrath to Königswinter. The journey itself offers magnificent views of the Siebengebirge. In Königswinter, it’s well worth taking a short stroll along the Rhine promenade. The route then leads up to the Petersberg. From here, you can enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views across the Rhine Valley as far as Bonn and into the Eifel.
Then follow the Panoramic Road to Bad Honnef. The charming town centre, with its small boutiques and cafés, is the perfect place for a short break. From there, the route continues along the Rhine to Bonn.
Lunch recommendation: Enjoy a stylish lunch at the Oliveto restaurant at the AMERON Bonn Hotel Königshof – serving Italian cuisine and boasting a stunning terrace right on the banks of the Rhine.
The Bergisches Land & a picturesque half-timbered villages
approx. 185 kilometres | journey time approx. 4 hours
Gothic churches, medieval castles and Germany’s highest railway bridge – winding, varied and ideal for anyone who wants to really get to know the Bergisches Land.
Route description: Set off from Bensberg Castle towards Odenthal and head first to Altenberg Cathedral. This imposing former monastery church is one of Germany’s most significant Gothic buildings and is surrounded by beautiful grounds.
The route continues along small country roads to Wermelskirchen and then on to Schloss Burg. This fully restored hilltop castle is one of the most beautiful castles in North Rhine-Westphalia. From the castle walls, there is a magnificent view across the Bergisches Land. Just a few kilometres away is the Müngsten Bridge – Germany’s highest railway bridge. A stroll through the bridge park is well worth it, as is a ride on the historic suspension ferry across the River Wupper.
The route then leads back towards Bensberg via Solingen and idyllic country roads.
Recommendation: This route combines winding country roads with historic old towns and spectacular viewpoints – ideal for sporty convertibles or GTs.
The Ahr Valley & the Volcanic Eifel
approx. 225 kilometres | journey time approx. 4.5 hours
Steep vineyards, picturesque wine-growing villages and the legendary scenic roads along the Ahr – this route is one of the most beautiful drives in the region.
From Bensberg Castle, take the A3 and A61 motorways to Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler. The historic old town, with its fully preserved city walls, is the perfect place to start your first stroll.
This is where the most beautiful part of the tour begins. Follow the River Ahr upstream via Dernau, Rech and Mayschoß. The road winds its way through steep vineyards, small wine-growing villages and numerous vantage points. In Altenahr, spectacular rock formations and stunning views across the valley await you. If you have a little more time to spare, you can take a short walk along one of the panoramic trails. You’ll then reach the Rhine again via Remagen. The return journey is a relaxed drive via Bonn and the motorway back to the castle.
A recommended stop: a coffee on the Remagen Rhine promenade, combined with a stroll across the famous Ludendorff Bridge in Remagen.
FAQ
What is included in the booking?
The booking includes 250 kilometres’ free mileage and insurance with an excess of up to EUR 5,000. You will receive a personal briefing; furthermore, the handover and return take place at the entrance to the Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg. The vehicle must be handed over with a full tank of fuel or a fully charged battery; otherwise, the cost of refuelling or recharging, plus a service charge of 30 euros, will be invoiced.
When will the vehicle be available?
The vehicles are available to you during your stay, subject to availability. We recommend that you book before you arrive to ensure you get the model of your choice.
Who is allowed to use the vehicles?
The ‘Mercedes-Benz × Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg’ experience is available exclusively to guests staying at the Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg and is aimed at residents of Germany, Austria and Switzerland. A valid EU driving licence (Category B) held for at least two years is required.
Can I book a vehicle even if I’m not a guest?
No. This offer is exclusively for guests staying overnight at the Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg.
How old do I need to be to book a vehicle?
The minimum age for using the vehicle is 25.
Who should I contact if I have any questions whilst I’m there?
Our front-office team is always on hand to assist you. You can contact us on: +49 2204 420 or by email at info@schlossbensberg.com.
Gibt es einen Versicherungsschutz?
Yes. All vehicles are insured, with an excess of up to EUR 5,000. Please refer to the legal information on the Mercedes-Benz booking page for further details.
What booking periods are available?
There are various time slots available for you to choose from every day. Please note that bookings cannot be made for consecutive days.
Can I cancel the booking?
If you are unable to take your booked ride, please cancel in good time to give other guests the opportunity to have a test ride.
Which routes are permitted for these trips?
You may undertake journeys on all public roads in Germany (Bavaria), Austria (Tyrol, Salzburg) and Italy (South Tyrol) up to a daily distance of 250 kilometres.
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