1. A trip to Cochem is a must. A gorgeous town 40 mins from the Ring, situated on the river Mosel. It has a very pretty castle, a cable car which takes you up to viewing points overlooking the Mosel and town, plus river trips and tourist style shops. The Mosel valley is a large wine producer so take advantage while you're there. A popular place to visit and well recommended

2. Wildlife park near the town of Daun. Drive through the wild boar, deer etc. and have the opportunity to feed them. After the drive, take the walk through the monkey enclosure where the monkeys run free around you. Check out the bird of prey show. Watch Owls, hawks and eagles do their stuff swooping low over your head. When all of this excitement gets too much, make your way to the gift shop and play area which has enough attractions to keep the little ones occupied while you have a well deserved rest. A must for the family!

http://www.wildpark-daun.de/

3. Rodelbahn near Daun. Right next door to the wildlife park is a tobogan run for kids and big kids alike. Winding down a steep steel run on little more than a tea tray with a brake is excellent fun for everyone. You will be getting competitve by the end of the first couple of runs I guarantee!

4. Phantasialand. German theme park for all the family http://www.phantasialand.de

5. Eifel Wildlife Park. Along the same lines as number 2 on this list.http://www.eifelpark.de/en/

6. Altenahr. A small town on the road towards Cologne which has plenty of restaurants amd small tourists shops to keep you busy. Try the chairlift which takes you up to a lovely viewing point and for the thirsty, a pleasant bar. Altenahr lies 15 mins north of Adenau.

http://www.altenahr-ahr.de/

7. Sommer Rodelbahn. If you're only going to visit one Rodelbahn, this one has to be it! The run is set in lovely gardens with lots of animals for the children to feed. We spent quite a long time here and spent very little money, which is always a bonus! Carry on past Altenahr for around ten mins and it's on your left hand side.

Video http://www.northloop.co.uk/videos_other.htm

http://www.sommerrodelbahn-altenahr.de/

8. Nurburg Castle. For those too lazy to drive anywhere take the steps to the castle which overlooks the surrounding area. Excellent views.

9. Burg Satzvey. A castle near the pretty village of Kommern around 40 mins from the Ring. Often there are events going on where you can try your arm at archery, watch fire eaters, jousting, birds of prey etc. Very much recommended.

http://www.burgsatzvey.de/eng_index.html

10. Koblenz. If you want to spend money then Koblenz is the place. Most of the town centre is pretty poor but look for the indoor shopping area over the other side of the road from the Subway sandwich shop. Plenty of designer shops to break the credit card.