Allensbach in southern Baden-Württemberg kind of confused me.
I don’t know why I was a bit discombobulated, it’s not as if Allensbach wasn’t charming enough. It’s not as if it was hard to find, right on Lake Constance to be exact. It’s not even as if it didn’t have any castles (which it did).
Maybe I got more than I expected, and that’s why? Why ask why, just enjoy it, you say? Rightly so…
As my usual M.O. would be to start with the historical side of Allensbach, but not this time. Oh, no, the Bodensee was calling my name (which sounds funny under water, BTW, ha ha) for a day filled with sailing, swimming, surfing and boating.
Nah, make that two days of those great activities. Another day would be spent just golfing and bicycling around.
However, if you only got time to do one activity (other than on the shores of Lake Constance) make sure its hiking. Everyone comes to the Marienschlucht, or the Maria Canyon. This 100-meter deep gorge has only been accessible since the 19th century; perhaps that’s why some German aristocrat decided to put a castle here.
Surrounded by the Maria Canyon on one side and an artificial gorge on another along with Lake Constance you’d think the Burgruine Kargegg would have been protected. Nope, this 13th century castle was destroyed in 1525.
The Schloss Freudenthal is a castle that’s still intact at least. This Baroque castle was built in 1698, which was the same year Allensbach’s Nicholas Church was built. Its two Rococo side altars are exquisite.
Another castle is Schloss Hegne, originally built in 1570 as a bishop’s summer residence. It’s got a stunning view overlooking Lake Constance, and is now used for all sorts of events.
I sure hope you’re surprised by all the awesome stuff there is to do in lil’ Allensbach — and get more than what you’d expect. ;-)