News

Chosen during the Pentecost weekend, Lüdenbach triumphed over four female competitors in a demanding professional interview session, impressing a 45-member jury with his deep wine knowledge, warm personality, and confident presentation. He now joins Ahrweinprinzessin Katharina Bongart to represent the region’s wine culture throughout Germany and beyond for the next year.

A personal passion turned prestigious role

The newly crowned Ahrweinkönig isn’t new to the wine spotlight. “Während meines Amtsjahres als Weinkönig in meinem Heimatort Heimersheim habe ich meine Leidenschaft für den Ahrwein intensiv gelebt und vertieft. Die positive Resonanz hat mich motiviert, meine Erfahrungen nun in größerem Rahmen einzubringen“, erklärt Lüdenbach.

His authentic connection to the Ahr Valley’s winemaking heritage and his professional demeanor made a lasting impression during the selection process.

A modern shift in German wine tradition

This year marked the first time the Ahrtal opened the prestigious wine title competition to male candidates — a progressive step welcomed with enthusiasm by the region and industry observers.

Andreas Lambeck, head of tourism for the Ahr Valley, praised the selection: “Felix ist ein absolut verdienter Ahrweinkönig. Er brennt für das Ahrtal und unsere Weine und wird als kompetenter Botschafter wichtige Impulse setzen. Zugleich ist seine Wahl ein starkes Zeichen für die moderne und offene Ausrichtung unseres Weinbaugebiets.“

The move aligns with a broader national trend toward greater gender diversity in the German wine industry, including leadership and honorary positions. The Ahr Valley’s push for equal opportunities is setting a precedent for others to follow.

Carrying tradition with a fresh perspective

Erstmals in diesem Jahr stand der Wettbewerb um die Ahrweinhoheiten auch Männern offen – mit durchschlagendem Erfolg. „Die Begeisterung in der Region ist riesig. Wir sind sicher, dass Felix diese Energie nutzen und die Strahlkraft des Ahrtals, unsere Streben nach Vielfalt und unsere Weine weitertragen wird“, so Lambeck.

Though breaking tradition, Lüdenbach will wear a crown crafted like those of his female predecessors, symbolizing the region’s commitment to unified representation. His first official duties begin within days, as he takes on his role with enthusiasm and optimism.

“Ich freue mich sehr auf die vielfältigen Aufgaben, den Austausch mit den Winzerinnen und Winzern, spannende Begegnungen und darauf, unser Weinbaugebiet Ahr national bekannt zu machen“, so der neue Ahrweinkönig.

Celebrating wine, diversity, and community spirit

This milestone not only highlights the region’s rich wine heritage but also its evolving identity—one that embraces both tradition and change. For wine lovers, locals, and travelers alike, the new royal duo promises a dynamic and heartfelt representation of the Ahr Valley and its celebrated wines.

Learn more at https://www.ahrtal.de

Taking place over two weekends—October 9 to 12 and October 16 to 19—this immersive event promises a moving celebration of unity, joy, and resilience. In a region rising with new spirit and shared hope, Klangwelle delivers not only artistic brilliance but also a powerful symbol of togetherness.

A Multisensory Journey That Touches the Heart

Now in its 11th year, Klangwelle continues to redefine what a live outdoor show can be. Designed by the renowned Vienna-based company Consortium and artistically directed by Roland Nenzel, the event blends music, water, fire, light, and laser into four seamless acts that move both mind and soul.

As Jan Ritter, Managing Director of Ahrtal Marketing GmbH, expressed: “One Vision ist mehr als ein Motto – es ist ein Lebensgefühl. Es steht für die Kraft der Gemeinschaft, für die Lebensfreude, die gerade für das Ahrtal von zentraler Bedeutung ist – und für einen optimistischen Blick nach vorn.”

Four Acts, Endless Emotion

Each act of the show is carefully crafted to evoke emotion and capture cultural harmony:

• “United – Zusammenstehen” sets the stage with a musical tribute to peace and solidarity—locally and globally—featuring highlights from rock, classical, and pop music.
• “Dolce Vita trifft Rheinland” (Acts 2 and 3) brings a vibrant mix of Italian zest and Rhineland warmth, uniting Italo hits and Kölsch classics into a festive celebration.
• “Zeitgeist – Am Puls der Zeit” closes the show with powerful electronic beats and modern visuals, echoing the rhythm of today’s fast-moving world.

Dominik Kremer, Head of Event Management, notes: “Die Klangwelle ist ein Ort der Begegnung – generationenübergreifend, kulturell verbindend, tief emotional. Sie ist ein Erlebnis, das bleibt.”

An Event to Indulge All the Senses

Klangwelle 2025 offers more than just an incredible performance—it invites visitors to fully engage with the beauty and energy of the Ahr Valley. The entire event is wrapped in a diverse program focused on enjoyment, relaxation, and inspiration.

Visitors can look forward to:

• Visually stunning effects across the Kurpark
• Culinary treats and local specialties
• A family-friendly atmosphere and open-air charm

Secure Your Spot at This Unforgettable Celebration

Klangwelle 2025 is an invitation to feel inspired, connected, and uplifted. Whether you're a returning fan or a first-time visitor, this year’s show promises memories that last long after the lights fade.

Tickets and further details are available now at www.die-klangwelle.de. Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of Germany’s most emotional and engaging outdoor experiences.

Held at the iconic Steigenberger Kurhaus-Saal, the event promises to shine a national spotlight on the Ahr Valley with red carpet elegance, top-tier entertainment, and a showcase of the region’s best wines — all wrapped in a festive, feel-good atmosphere that wine lovers won’t want to miss.

A new chapter for Germany’s unique wine award

The “Ahrwein des Jahres” isn’t just another wine prize. It’s the only state-recognized wine award in Germany that brings together an entire wine region. All local wineries and cooperatives take part, making it a truly one-of-a-kind celebration of regional excellence. For the first time ever, the public is invited to attend.

„Dieser Weinpreis steht für die herausragende Qualität und die starke Gemeinschaft im Ahrtal. Mit der diesjährigen Gala öffnen wir das Event zum ersten Mal für Weinfreunde aus ganz Deutschland – ein Schritt, der dem Ahrwein die überregionale Aufmerksamkeit geben soll, die er verdient,“ explains Guido Mombauer, Vorstandsvorsitzender der Kreissparkasse Ahrweiler.

This milestone event is organized by Kreissparkasse Ahrweiler, the International Wine Institute in the Ahr Valley, and Ahrwein e.V.

Red carpet glamour and world-class entertainment

Beloved TV personality Stefan Mross will guide guests through the evening with his signature charm and humor. As the longtime host of ARD’s “Immer wieder sonntags,” Mross is one of Germany’s most recognized faces and brings just the right sparkle to the Ahr wine celebration.

The musical highlight of the evening comes from U.S. musical star Deborah Sasson, who will perform live and mesmerize the audience with some of the most iconic songs from The Phantom of the Opera. With her powerful voice and internationally acclaimed stage presence, Sasson is set to make this gala truly unforgettable.

An indulgent evening for wine lovers

Guests will be welcomed at 5:30 p.m. with a sparkling wine reception in the elegant Baroque Hall. Following that, the beautifully decorated Kurhaus-Saal will host an exquisite four-course dinner crafted by the Steigenberger kitchen, perfectly paired with the six winning wines of the evening and other top selections from the Ahr region.

During the gala, coveted awards will be presented in the following categories:

• Spätburgunder Kultwein
• Spätburgunder Premium
• Spätburgunder Klassiker
• Bester Frühburgunder
• Bester Blanc de Noir
• Sonderkategorie: Bester Riesling trocken

„Der Spätburgunder bleibt das Aushängeschild des Ahrtals, aber gerade beim Riesling sehen wir in den Altenahrer und Mayschoßer mittlerweile eine hervorragende Qualität – deshalb ehren wir ihn dieses Jahr mit einer Sonderkategorie,“ emphasizes Lukas Sermann, Vorsitzender des Ahrwein e.V.

Celebrate into the night

After the awards ceremony, the celebration continues with a stylish after-show party back in the Baroque Hall. Guests will have the chance to enjoy more tastings of the winning wines and unwind in an exclusive, festive atmosphere.

Those who want to turn the evening into a mini-vacation can take advantage of a special accommodation package available at the Steigenberger Hotel Bad Neuenahr — making it easy to fully immerse in the Ahr Valley experience.

Learn more at www.ahrwein-des-jahres.de

Racing through treetops at up to 40 km/h, the state-of-the-art “Alpine Coaster 2.0” delivers a rollercoaster-like experience with a natural twist. Only the third of its kind in Germany, it spans 800 meters downhill and 450 meters uphill, combining speed and serenity in a way that’s truly unforgettable.

A rollercoaster ride through nature

Built for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, the Silberberg Coaster weaves through dense forest canopies, sharp turns, and two spiral loops—all with minimal noise and maximum excitement.

“This is an experience like a rollercoaster—right in the middle of the Bavarian Forest,” said Thomas Hüblein, Managing Director of Silberbergbahn. “And our guests ride almost silently through nature.”

The modern rail system ensures a smooth yet exhilarating journey, regardless of weather. Whether under the summer sun or snowfall, the coaster operates year-round with the same level of excitement.

Eco-conscious thrills without compromise

What makes the Silberberg Coaster stand out isn’t just its speed—it’s the sustainable approach behind its construction. Not a single healthy tree was cut down for the project.

“We worked with the utmost respect for the environment and the landscape,” emphasized Hüblein. “This allows visitors to enjoy nature and speed in perfect harmony.”

Expanding a beloved destination

The new attraction enhances the existing offerings at the popular Silberberg adventure mountain, which already draws tens of thousands with its classic summer toboggan run.

“Our old ride stays—the Coaster is the icing on the cake for those looking for something special,” said Sebastian Zistler, Technical Director.

The coaster is also integrated into the aktivCARD Bayerischer Wald, meaning many vacationers can ride it for free—an exceptional perk for such a premium experience. To top it off, a photo booth is being installed to capture action shots with Bodenmais’s stunning backdrop.

A year-round tourism highlight

With the Silberberg Coaster, Bodenmais continues to cement its status as a year-round destination for families, adventure seekers, and wellness travelers.

“We focus on sustainable experiences that appeal to both families and adventurers,” said Tobias Wolf, Head of Tourism in Bodenmais. “The Coaster brings new energy to the region—and will undoubtedly become one of our biggest visitor magnets.”

The grand opening is set for July 6, 2025, and excitement is already building across the region. A sneak peek is available via the official video on Instagram:
👉 www.instagram.com/p/DLSopo3PcIf

Plan your ride

Visitors staying in Bodenmais with the aktivCARD Bayerischer Wald can ride the Silberberg Coaster twice per person for free. Whether you’re here for hiking, relaxation, or pure thrills—this new coaster is the perfect addition to your itinerary.

Learn more at www.bodenmais.de

With more travelers seeking nature-rich experiences, Princess Cruises is responding with a fresh lineup of routes that blend rugged landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural heritage—all while offering the premium comfort the brand is known for. The expanded offerings are tailored for modern adventurers who crave raw nature without sacrificing style.

Deeper Into Alaska’s Wild Heart

Princess Cruises, a leader in Alaska travel for over five decades, brings unmatched expertise to its new itineraries. Whether it’s a classic 7-day glacier cruise or a fully immersive “Cruisetour” that includes land excursions, train journeys, and lodge stays, travelers have more options than ever to experience the state's awe-inspiring scenery and wildlife.

Highlights of the new adventures include:

• Glistening glaciers and legendary peaks, such as Denali, the highest mountain in North America at 6,194 meters.
• Wildlife hot spots like Katmai National Park, renowned for its dense brown bear population.
• UNESCO-protected treasures, including Glacier Bay, which is visited more frequently by Princess Cruises than any other cruise line.

More Ships, More Time to Explore

In 2025, seven Princess ships will sail Alaskan waters; in 2026, that number grows to eight. Departures are available from major coastal cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver, and Anchorage—making it easier than ever for travelers to start their journey.

New itineraries are designed with longer port stops in scenic towns like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, giving guests ample time to soak up local culture and natural beauty. With access to remote destinations such as Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay National Park—many only reachable by ship—the cruise experience feels truly off the beaten path.

Three Itineraries Tailored for Nature Lovers

To cater to different levels of adventure and comfort, Princess Cruises has introduced three standout tours:

• National Parks Expedition (15 days, 5 parks) – A grand tour that includes Glacier Bay, Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, Kenai Fjords, and Skagway.
• National Parks Explorer (14 days, 4 parks) – Ideal for travelers who want to combine natural wonders with premium accommodations.
• Katmai & Glacier Bay (9 days, 2 parks) – A dream itinerary for wildlife enthusiasts, with a special focus on Katmai’s famous brown bears.

Combining Nature With Nautical Elegance

Princess Cruises continues to deliver refined onboard experiences alongside thrilling outdoor excursions. Guests enjoy award-winning service, modern amenities, and a sense of effortless exploration throughout their journey.

As the brand explains: “Princess Cruises verbindet diese Ursprünglichkeit mit dem Komfort einer Premium-Kreuzfahrt – für Reisende, die das Abenteuer suchen, ohne auf Stil verzichten zu wollen.”

Whether you're drawn by the call of the wild or the allure of world-class cruise amenities, these new routes offer an inspiring way to experience Alaska like never before.

Learn more at www.princesscruises.de

Households participating in the program saw cocoa yields 18% higher than non-participating farmers, leading to 15% more total net income. These improvements come during the 2023/2024 cocoa season, which was marked by poor harvests due to changing weather patterns. The evaluation, conducted by the KIT Institute, reveals that the program is helping improve both income and resilience among participating households.

Farming practices make the difference

The report highlights that cocoa farms in the program are healthier, largely due to the adoption of good agricultural practices. These include pruning, weeding, shade management, pest control, and labor investment. Composting was also newly introduced to further improve sustainability.

“Our income accelerator program is one of our key sustainability initiatives,” said Laurent Freixe, CEO of Nestlé. “And we are committed to expanding it further in Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana, our main cocoa origins. We welcome the interest of governments and other industry players in our approach. Together, we will be able to scale up our work for impact.”

Positive ripple effects for families and communities

Beyond boosting yields, the program has delivered major improvements in family well-being. According to the KIT Institute, it is enhancing children's well-being, improving food security, and empowering women. One of the program’s most unique features—distributing mobile money equally between both heads of household—has been key to driving gender equity and financial resilience.

Key results among program participants include:

• 15% higher total household net income
• 18% increase in cocoa yields
• 21% increase in net cocoa profit accelerated by the rise in cocoa prices
• 18% higher women empowerment index
• 31% increase of children well-being
• 88% of children were enrolled in school in 2024, up from 81% in 2022

Evolving to meet farmers’ needs

Nestlé is adjusting the program based on feedback from families and partners. The next phase will simplify the incentive structure for clearer and faster implementation. Incentives will now center on two core areas: farm support (pruning) and household support (schooling), while continuing to deliver a broad set of activities.

“Since launching the Income Accelerator Program pilot in 2020, we have continuously refined our approach based on feedback from farming families and independent evaluations,” said Darrell High, Nestlé Cocoa Manager. “This report confirms that even in a challenging year, the program is making a real difference, which is very encouraging.”

Scaling impact through partnership

Nestlé’s commitment to scaling the program in Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana demonstrates its long-term vision for more equitable and sustainable cocoa farming. The company’s collaborative approach is gaining traction, inviting governments and industry players to join in expanding the program’s reach and results.

Learn more at www.nestle.com.