The minute I, or anyone I know, is totally jaded about our towns, I’m hangin’ up my keyboard forever. After hundreds (is it thousands?) of towns throughout Germany over the last few years here at MyGermanCity.com, I’m still loving every single place.

Granted, I might be a tad romantic about this Middle Franconian town — but it’s hard not to when you’re visiting such gems like Wilhermsdorf.

What really stands out about Wilhermsdorf are its many festivals and cultural events.

Ah, maybe I shouldn’t be surprised, this is Franconia as I said. Whatever, doesn’t matter, just get your calendar ready to make plans to visit for the many Kirchweih celebrations held throughout Wilhermsdorf’s ten villages. The one in Meiersberg is on the second weekend of August, followed by the one in Kirchfarnbach on the last weekend of August, and yet another just two weeks later in September.

September, by the way, is also the month for Wilhermsdorf’s annual Autumn Festival; while the town’s Christmas Market is always on the 4th weekend of Advent.

Can’t make it then? All right, can you arrange to visit around Pentecost? That’s when yet another Kirchweih takes place, this one going on for five straight days.

Even when there isn’t a festival going on you’ll have things to do around town. You could start by visiting the Jewish cemetery, a piece of Wilhermsdorf’s history dating back to the 15th century. No need to think it’s creepy, we Germans look at cemeteries like parks.

Also from 15th century Wilhermsdorf history is the Church of Sts. Peter & Paul in the village of Krichfarrnbach. While nowhere nearly as old, the Church of Sts. Martin & Maria is a wonderful Baroque church from the first years of the 1700s.

And scattered throughout all this greatness are old farmhouses and medieval stone crosses, giving you more and more to see during your visit.

And I’m pretty sure you’ll romanticize it, too. ;-)

Hold on to your hats, Ladies and Gentlemen, it’s time to visit the Verwaltungsgemeinschaft Uttenreuth.

Wow, those long words really roll off the tongue, don’t they? Maybe I really shouldn’t have thrown that long named Collective Municipality out there like that, considering this is supposed to be only about the town of Uttenreuth itself.

The town of Uttenreuth is actually only two districts, belonging to the Metropolitan Region of Nuremberg, not even some six square kilometers in the Schwabach Valley.

Yeah, I know, doesn’t mean much when its written like that — just know you’ll see some wonderful countryside here in Middle Franconia.

For instance, the Buckenhofer Forest is a good place to start — and it’s home to quite a number of protected species. Plus, there’s also the Nürnberger Reichswald to explore around, too.

Not everyone enjoys spending time wandering through and around forests, so for you folks, take heart — there are a handful of castles to see nearby. So what if they’re not creepy medieval castles that would make a grand setting for a horror flick?

Go see for yourself, but I think you’ll love Schloss Adlitz (built 15th/16th century); Schloss Atzelsberg (a 3-story gem from the 18th century); Schloss Rathsberg and Schloss Marloffstein (both from the 17th century).

Oops, I almost forgot about Schloss Puckenhof — originally built in the mid-1500s.

These castles, as grand as they are, aren’t the only historical buildings found around town, though. There’s also the Church of St. Matthew (built 1765). Come to the village of Buckenhof, more specifically to Gräfenberger Straße, to see some other buildings that’ve been around for centuries; like the Old Golden Lamb Guesthouse.

And you’re sure to want to see the Old Mill (at Habernhofer Weg) from the 18th century, and the Schwabach Bridge (along with the Cemetery Chapel) have been around from the 19th century.

Now, visitors to Franconia cannot expect to visit without some kind of festival or cultural event. I’d say the Kerwa in September is perfect since the weather this time of year is just heavenly.

So, whether you’re visiting just Uttenreuth, or the Collective Municipality, you’ll easily have a good time — even if its name isn’t all that easy to pronounce. ;-)

Earlier in the week I was spending time north of Kassel, but I’m extending it just south of it in the town of Söhrewald. Oh I’m not complaining, I kinda like it here — and for a whole bunch of reasons.

Those reasons would be all the wonderful half-timbered houses scattered throughout town. And I’ve seen them during the full bloom of summer, as well as when they’re covered with snow. Truth be told, these romantic looking buildings are Old World charming in any season — and it’s hard to pick any particular favorite. But, you know I’m gonna try, right? ;-)

Let’s see… maybe it’s the Lutheran Parish Church (located at An der Kirche 2), built just about 300 years ago. The Old Forest House is a good one; that one being constructed in 1745. Maybe the best is the Obermühle (Upper Mill)? Ahh, too hard to choose.

Do yourself a favor, as you’re wandering around Söhrewald, be sure you to closely look around. Otherwise you’ll be missing out on seeing things like a wind farm and a Gothic church in the village of Wattenbach. Ooh, plus you’re not all that far from the Cemetery Vollmarshausen — which is really cool since it has Bronze and Iron Age tombs dating back to around 1000 B.C.

Yeah, that’s seriously old, right?

But, not being the type to live by history alone — I’m happy to say Söhrewald has some wonderful themed hiking trails. The Eder-Gelsterweg comes through, plus there’s the Kassel-Steig, the Märchenlandweg, and/or “Section 1” of the Grimmsteig. This last one is all about the Brothers Grimm — pretty awesome, wouldn’t you say?

If you want to hike the beat of your own drummer, no themed trails are necessary if all you want is to spend some alone time in the Kaufunger Forest. Or, you could always join the crowds at one of Söhrewald’s cultural events.

The Summer Festival is a great idea. No, make that two great ideas since there’s one in July, followed by another in August. And let’s not forget about the Christmas Bazaar, or such happenings as like Whisky tasting events.

Whoo, if that’s not a way to keep oneself warm on a snowy day. And it sure isn’t the only reason I like the place. ;-)

Sometimes I feel bad for little towns when they’re so close to much larger cities. I mean, really, how can you usually compete when a bigger city has culture, history, and entertainment?

Well, my friends, here’s the thing — you don’t have to compete at all. I think the Hessian town of Espenau is fine standing on its own against neighboring Kassel.

Besides, who’s gonna complain when you find yourself located between the Habichtwald and the Reinhardswald? Seriously, you’ve got two great forests between you; so get your most comfy pair of shoes and walk around. Trust me, you’ll love it. Why else would people want to be buried in such beautiful surroundings at the Waldruhe Schäferberg?

In fact, why not just go exploring around the Märchenlandweg (Fairytale Land Trail) while you’re at it. This hiking route will take you all around the region, even giving you some history on mining in the region.

Oh no, not history! Stop it, Marcus, you’ll killing us with that stuff.

I know that’s what you’re thinking, so I won’t say anymore than to come to Espenau’s Heimatmuseum (Local History Museum) that has exhibits on everything from 18th century farming to how an old traditional bedroom once looked.

Uh, wait, there’s more history. Come see the outstanding fortified church from the 12th century in the village of Hohenkirchen, while you’re at it.

All right, no more history for the rest of the page. It’s time to talk about the Heimatfest. There’s plenty of time to discuss it since it only takes place every 5-years. The one in 2015 was such a hit, that everyone was buzzing about the next one.

At least the Christmas Market is an annual event, so hopefully you’ll get to experience it if you’re here during the Advent Season. And you’ll be lucky if you’re here for one of the theater performances, even if it is an amateur one. Hey, we’re Germans — we’re perfectionists even when we’re not professionals. ;-)

Do you see why Espenau has no need to “compete” with Kassel? It’s got everything its big-city sister has, all in one compact package.

I wonder if Stone Age man, the Romans, and the Franks used to call the town of Mömlingen the “Gateway to the Odenwald” like they do these days? Hmm, probably not, but that’s not to hold anything against our ancestors.

Anyway, back to the Odenwald, rest assured while you’re spending some time in Mömlingen you’re treated to some of the most excellent Lower Franconian real estate imaginable. So any one of the hiking trails (like the 4.5Km Geopark Path) or bike paths (even mountain bike trails) will be nothing short of spectacular.

For me, spectacular comes from visiting Burg Breuberg. That’s right, a medieval castle of brownish stone whose walls of its donjon were a staggering 2.5 meters thick. These days the early 13th century castle is a museum, housing both medieval and Roman artifacts.

As for other Roman artifacts you can see a few replicas of the Jupiter Columns that were found here many years ago. And as for museums, Mömlingen even has its own Heimatmuseum (Local History Museum) — located at Alte Schulstraße 1; even better it’s free admission, although donations are appreciated.

C’mon, it doesn’t have to be a large endowment, because you’ll want to put some money into the local economy at one of Mömlingen’s festivals. Your choice if you want to come for the Pfarrfest (Parish Festival) in July, Oktoberfest in September, or the Advent Market in November. Better yet, come for all of them.

In between festivals you could certainly make time to visit such places as the Chapel of St. Wendelin, built in 1717 over a medieval one. There’s also the Church of St. Martin, another 18th century church built over an original. Plus, there’s the Marian Grotto, the Leonhardi Chapel, and a mid-18th century stone cross found at Am Sauerberg.

Another thing you could do would be to grab some delicious bratwurst, some beer, and head on over to the BBQ areas. Nothing wrong with that, is there?

Nah, I didn’t think so; consider it another wonderful way to experience the best of Mömlingen. ;-)

Between the Schönberg and the Black Forest lies the small-scale town of Merzhausen, measuring just 2.76 square kilometers in southern Baden-Württemberg.

Now, don’t let its size fool ya — this place is pretty awesome, especially if you add it in with its collective municipality known as the Verwaltungsgemeinschaft Hexental.

Wow, that’s a mouthful to get out — and all I did was type it. ;-)

Besides, did you notice that collective municipality’s name is bewitched? ;-)

Anyway, what’s really great about the town of Merzhausen are its vineyards. It might not sound like much, but the 15 hectares that grow Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, and Riesling grapes to make fine German wines add to its visual appeal. C’mon, you know you’re gonna visit one of its wineries while you’re here — ya have to.

And you could also hike along the Bettlerpfad, or Beggar’s Path. Just follow the yellow diamond markers, they’ll take you on a route once used by monks. At least that’s the legend.

The monks, by the way, used to own the Jesuitenschloss. They lived here back in the mid-17th century when they taught over at the nearby University of Freiburg — although the building standing before you is almost a century younger than the original.

Funny, that’s about the same time the Church of St. Gallus was being constructed. Just don’t get it twisted, a church has been on this spot for more than twelve centuries.

It’s too bad nothing’s left of Burg Au (in the village of Au), the medieval castle fell into ruin more than 500 years ago. Although you’ll find some pretty old churches in the village of Sölden and Horben.

Horben, by the way, lies in the Black Forest Nature Park — so you’ll want to check out some of its amazing hiking trails.

You’ll be even luckier if you’re visiting when one of Merzhausen’s many cultural events is going on. The Autumn Festival is grand enough, held every year at the end of September. The Christmas Market at the end of November is also a good one, as is the Summer Festival in July. This isn’t even counting all the events going on at the Forum Merzhausen, the community Cultural Center.

What I love most about Merzhausen (and the Verwaltungsgemeinschaft Hexental) is that it proves you don’t have to be gigantic to pack a powerful punch. Less really is more, isn’t it?

My first lesson about the town of Tönning was that it’s known by many different names. You might see it written like Tönnen in Low German, or Tønning in Danish, and even Taning in North Frisian — none of which actually change the fabulous vibe around this old harbor town.

Actually that’s what the place is famous for — its picturesque harbor along the Eider River. The harbor itself is framed by the prettiest historical buildings, many of them dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. I really like the ones from the early to mid-17th century along Neustraße, but that’s my own preference. I’m sure you’ll find your own to love.

I’d have loved the Tönninger Schloss, but it isn’t around anymore. Well, at least the castle park is, but there’s a replica of what the castle used to look like. What’s even better is the Peermarkt (with fireworks no less) that’s held on the grounds on the third weekend of August.

Hmm, do I still go on about history at this point, or do I start talking about Tönning’s festivals…

Ok, history it stays — so, while you’re walking around marveling at the pretty place before you, think about this: back in the year 1700, it wasn’t always this peaceful. You see, that’s when the Siege of Tönning was going on with the Swedes and Holstein facing off against Denmark.

Honestly, I don’t quite know how it all ended (if you know, someone please tell me), but these days I can’t think of a better place to camp out. One of the campgrounds around here even has babysitting services, and bike & boat rentals along the beach.

As if that’s not enough to keep you satisfied, there’s a Weekly Market to shop at (Wednesday mornings), horseback riding on the beach, and the ever awesome Adventure Aquarium Multimar.

And just when you think you’ve seen everything, you’ll realize there’s the beautiful St. Lawrence Church at the Marktplatz to visit, the old fountain to take pictures of, and a Christmas Market to shop.

I did, however, wait to mention the best for last — the fantastic boat trips along the Eider. It’s a fun way to see the surrounding countryside in Tönning. I mean Tönnen. Taning? Tønning? Ahh, whatever, I love it in all its languages. ;-)

What is it with Germany? This is a strange place, they throw around names like Oberschwäbisches Hügelland, and expect even German-speakers to understand what this means? Sorry for my little rant, but here I am in the graceful town of Horgenzell — and all I got out of that was Upper Swabia.

You know what? It doesn’t matter, they can stop right there, because in any language the Swabian region of the country is great for anyone who loves being outside to enjoy the sunshine. The nature reserve areas around here are utterly fantastic to commune with nature, to get some peace and quiet, or just to get some exercise in an idyllic landscape on any one of the many hiking and cycling trails and paths.

Horgenzell, however, is also great if you really like to party. Who doesn’t love one of those? I know I do, so it’s all your own personal choice if you want to hit up the Summer Festival in July, the Dorffeste (yes, two Village Festivals, one in July and another in August), the Oktoberfest (in October), or the Christmas Market at the end of November.

The best is probably the Einhalden Festival, a musical and cabaret affair that’s held annual on what was once a 12th century farm. How cool is that — fun and history all rolled into one. Who says history can’t be exciting?

I know something like that would never come from my lips (in this case, my fingers on the keyboard). And what’s even better about Horgenzell is there’s a good bit of history to be found. Probably the oldest in the region are the Bronze Age gravel hills, found in the nearby Dickenwald. You’ve also got a medieval atonement cross out here, as well as a 13th century church in the village of Zogenweiler.

Wait, I take that back. The original church goes back that far, but the one you’re looking at these days is from the 20th century; although the Baroque and neo-Gothic sculptures are still around.

Too bad nearby Burg Schmalegg is gone, too. The poor 12th century castle was destroyed during the Thirty Years’ War conflict, and all that stands on the spot of a medieval castle is a cross.

Maybe I shouldn’t have ranted about Horgenzell being in the Oberschwäbischen Hügelland (Upper Swabian Hill Land), but instead have been singing praises of this magnificent place. But, I’d have done it in German, so it just would have sounded like yelling away. ;-)

It’s a beautiful Saturday, my day almost at an end — and it’s my last town of the week. That being said, I’m happy to say I’m here in Lichtenau (Baden) in the Upper Rhine Valley (right next to France, by the way) to rest up for whatever lies ahead after today.

Now, some of you might catch what I’m saying, but for those who haven’t I’ll explain. You see, Lichtenau, while exceptionally charming, doesn’t have a whole lot going on. That’s all right though, sometimes it’s just what you need not to send you into sensory overload.

I take that back, sensory overload could happen during one of Lichtenau’s many festivals and markets. The end of the year is the best time to be here (in my humble opinion), since September’s when you’ll find the Michaelimarkt going on, October’s when the town’s Kirwe and Oktoberfest takes place, followed by the Advent Market at the end of November — and a whole bunch of Advent concerts going on, too.

Spring and Summer are great for spending time outdoors, that’s for sure. Isn’t it the best to see the greenery in full bloom as you’re out on one of the many cycling trails that run along the woods and meadows? Oh, heck, it’s nice to ride along the farms — and isn’t it grand that Lichtenau lies along the Baden Asparagus Route?

In keeping with the whole outdoorsy theme, there’s the Forest Adventure to explore. Dedicated entirely to “forest education,” there are 15 stations that detail all kinds of informative facts about it. Guided hikes are also available around town, if you’re so inclined.

And if you want to go back to the food part of it, you’re treated to a whole variety of restaurants — everything from local cuisine (here’s where the asparagus makes its appearance), to pizza and kebabs.

You’d never guess the area was totally burned up by the Swedes during the Thirty Years’ War, or there was once a moated 13th century castle here, either. At least the early 19th century Weinbrenner Church in the village of Scherzheim is still around.

As am I, by the way, since I’m finding Lichtenau the perfect place to spend a splendid Saturday. ;-)

I don’t know how many people out there who can say they love their life. I, my friends, am one of them. I’m happy to dedicate my entire life to shout at the world at how great Germany really is — and its towns like Igensdorf in Upper Franconia that make it so much easier to do that.

Located in the Franconian Jura, bordering Franconian Switzerland, Igensdorf is a place where spending a night (or two!) at a farm is just a normal day. It’s a place where the most delicious things grow. And it’s a place of extraordinary fun.

Who could ask for anything more?

Um, I’m a tough cookie, so yes I’ll ask for more — and I’ll get here, no doubt about it.

Let’s start at the beginning though, OK? Since the town lies in some pretty magnificent real estate, you’ll really want to be outdoors as much as possible. There are quite a number of “themed” trails, like the Geologischer Wanderweg (Geological Hiking Trail), a Jurassic Period route that’s some 2km long, and the 3.17km (yes, that specific — hello, this is Germany) Sonnen- und Planetenweg (Sun & Planet Trail).

Plus, with all the cherry growing around these parts, it’ll be a culinary delight to do so.

This is what brings me to the next part, all the festivals and fun around here. Every May the town hosts a Cherry Blossom Festival, but that’s not all it has. There are no less than five (count ’em, 5) Kirchweih celebrations (3 of them in June, two in August), a Johannimarkt, an Advent Market, and once a month from June to November is the Obst und Beerenmarkt — or Fruit & Berry Market.

Igensdorf isn’t without some grand architecture to see while you’re here, too. I love the light & bright yellow Church of St. George, built in 1687. And if you think that’s old, the St. James Parish Church has been around for a thousand years — which is also the venue for the town’s Cultural Summer programs.

You see? I said you’d get everything I mentioned, plus more to boot here in Igensdorf; which is why I love my life, especially when I’m spending time in places like this. ;-)