One of the coolest ways to see the majestic Allgäu is by hot air balloon. Well, that is if you’re NOT afraid of heights. If you’ve got a fear of flying I hope you can overcome it because it’s a totally awesome way of seeing the town of Altusried.
But, if you’re going to follow the Upper Swabian Baroque Route through town, you’ll probably be better off doing it from the ground level. It’ll be easier to follow the green & yellow cherub signs though town.
If you’ve chosen the ground version of sightseeing, start in the village of Frauenzell (one of the five that are Altusried) where you’ll find the area known as Gschnaidt that’s a Weiler. Oh, yeah, I was confused, too. I’ll try to explain it though.
A Weiler is a housing development that’s smaller than a village and bigger than a simple farmstead. Within the Gschnaidt are two pilgrimage churches, a Cross Way with the Stations of the Cross, and kilometer upon kilometer of walking trails that streak through the forest.
Altusried has castle ruins, too. Not all that much remains of the 16th century Burg Kalden, only a piece of the Gate Tower. And while there isn’t too much to see of the castle, it does sit in some spectacular countryside — so, it’s all good. :-)
Some visitors to Altusried follow along the famous St. James’ Way and some come once a year in October for the Alternative Market. About 20,000 people converge on Altusried on the 1st Sunday in October to buy leather goods, skin care products, stoneware, and even local Swabian cuisine (that’s only naming a few of the things you can buy here).
That isn’t the only reason to come to Altusried. A good deal of visitors like to come for the skiing in winter, while others like the shows put on at the Outdoor Theater (one of the largest in Germany).
Me? I don’t think it matters when you come, but if you like horseback riding, swimming, bicycling, or want to take that hot air balloon ride I’d gander that you’d better do it when it’s warmer.
Either way, it’s all good. :-)
