I don’t pretend to be a know-it-all. But, if you want to know about what the town of Wissen has to offe;, you come see me.

OK, I tried to do that with a straight face — but, it just didn’t work.

Honestly, I can’t begin to know everything there is about Wissen, which translates to “Knowledge,” like the folks over at the Tourist Office, right in the heart of town. These guys (sorry, I mean Ladies) are the best at helping curious travelers find everything from farmhouse accommodations to explaining all about the Fisherman Festival — to say the least.

So, in their honor I will do my absolute best in highlighting their hometown.

I always like to start with the castle (when there is one), so it’s off to see Schloss Schönstein. This castle from the Middle Ages (1255 to be exact) is thought to have a “complicated construction” design. Who thinks of this stuff?

You know what that means? It’s a nice way to say the castle’s a hodge-podge of medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, and everything in-between architecture. I call it both eclectic and beautiful.

Another beautiful building in Wissen is the Heister Chapel. It’s one of the oldest half-timbered churches in all of Germany. Then there’s the Holy Cross Catholic Church, whose foundation stone dates to the year 1000. Yeah, that makes it more than a thousand years old.

But, I’m not living by old building alone, and I don’t think you should either. You can hike around the 35km Botanical Park where you’ll pass along all sorts of lovely scented flowers.

Or, take a swim at the Siegtalbad with a sauna and solarium. Don’t get excited — the solarium is just a nice sounding word for tanning bed. But, I know deep down, you and the kids will have a blast swimming around.

Which is also what you’ll have when you party at the Fisherman Festival in August or the May Day (end of April/begin of May). Don’t forget to buy yourself some locally made goodies at the Martinimarkt in early November.

So, Tourist Office Ladies, how did I do in telling about your town? I know, don’t quit my day job, right? ;-)

Odds are you might never have heard about the town of Dornstetten if you weren’t traveling on one of the best German scenic routes (EVER). This little town of around 8,000 people lies along the Red Route of the Deutsche Fachwerkstraße, or the German Framework Road.

Whatever name you choose to use for it, know this: it’s all about the many framework houses you’ll find in this part of the mysterious Black Forest. Otherwise, why would the Framework Road bring you here?

Yeah, I didn’t think so.

One of the prettiest buildings in Dornstetten is the historic half-timbered Rathaus (or, Town Hall) that’s right next door to the Gasthaus Ochsen (that’s also a fairytale looking half-timbered building) in the Altstadt (Old Town).

I say spend the night here, this way you can see more of Dornstetten. Hmm, history and comfortable accommodations all in one place, I would say.

Not all of Dornstetten’s history is limited to its administrative and accommodations buildings. The town has its own Heimatmuseum (a Local History Museum) and a Doll & Toy Museum.

It also has a bit of sightseeing in the underworld. No, I don’t mean Hades or the Devil’s domain; I’m talking about a mine. Copper and silver were once heavily mined here, and now you can see how (and where) they did it.

Mines are dark places, so to balance that all out go see (AND walk!) the Barfußpark or Barefoot Park. This is a pretty long “park” that’s meant to done without shoes for all of its 2 (and a half) kilometers. Hey, I didn’t say it was a cake walk — I said it was a barefoot walk. ;-)

Sightseeing around Dornstetten might get a bit crowded during its festivals and markets. Every July there’s a Stadtfest (City Festival); and a market on Easter Monday and one every Autumn (called the Herbstmarkt).

Who cares if it’s crowded, the town lies within the Black Forest — so the food and pure nature will more than make up for it.

Dornstetten’s festivals and markets are held at the Marktplatz, which is also where you’ll find the town’s Tourist Office — as if the Fachwerkstraße isn’t enough, right? ;-)

This Dannenberg has a suffix at the end of its name. It’s known as Dannenberg (Elbe), as not to be confused with any of Germany’s other Dannenbergs.

Not likely to happen once you’ve visited the place. But, that’s just my opinion.

I know, I know, everyone’s got one, right?

The first thing you might notice about Dannenberg (Elbe) is its countryside. It lies within the Dannenberg marshlands which is now a protected area with a couple of artificial lakes with lots of local wildlife.

One lake that’s real popular is Thielenburger See with a nearby recreation center.

Yet, the marshlands aren’t Dannenberg’s landmarks. That’s reserved for the Waldemar Tower, which houses exhibits on the town’s floods and art exhibitions. It was originally Dannenberger Castle’s donjon from the very early 13th century. Wow, that’s a far stretch, isn’t it?

Dannenberg’s other landmark is St. John’s Church; a Gothic brick structure that was built in 1245.

Although not the town’s landmarks you’ll still want to see the Town Hall (built 1780) and the Ohm’s House, a triangular building from the 17th century that’s now a cultural events center.

Oh yeah, cultural events. Brings me to Dannenberg’s festivals. April is the best time to come if you like Chamber Music with its Chamber Music Week. While in both April & May many other cultural activities.

September has the Night of Fine Arts and November brings gourmands for a Potato Festival.

For a less festive look at Dannenberg’s culture, visit the Puppet Theater and the Fire Department Museum. I mean the Feuerwehrmuseum, since that’s what they’re called here in Germany.

There’s also the St. Anne Cemetery with a plaque to Eleanor Prochaska and Theodor Körner, liberation fighters from the early 19th century.

Dannenberg’s other cemetery is its Jewish cemetery with the earliest gravestone from 1776. But, the town’s Jewish community was here from around the 1680’s to the 1930’s. The cemetery isn’t marked, so you’ll have to ask directions at the Tourist Office (located in the Rathaus).

From the looks of it, there’s no way you’ll confuse this Dannenberg with any others out there. But, again, that’s my opinion — can’t wait to hear yours.

I feel like I’m home again in the former volcano region of Daun in the Eifel. No, I don’t live here — it just feels like I might have back in a past life.

There’s something calming about sitting by Daun’s crater lakes and mineral springs. It’s not about the castles or the churches this time. No, it’s more about the Volcano Museum and the Volcanic Eifel Marathon, a mountain biking event through the Eifel.

To keep Daun’s volcano theme going, the town has numerous “volcano” bicycle trails with names like the Volcanic Trail Bike Park and the Volcanic Bike Cross Country. Sounds daunting in Daun, doesn’t it? Ha-ha, I just make myself laugh when I say things like that. ;-)

But, no one can live by volcanic eruption alone.

Just kidding… There hasn’t been any volcano eruptions in thousands (and thousands) of years. So, you’ve got to see what else Daun has in store.

I know. How about coming for the Krimi or Crime Festival, where crime writers come from all over every two years (I should say from all over where they speak German) all vying for the coveted prize for the best story.

At least the St. Lawrence Carnival takes place yearly. For five days starting the 1st Wednesday of August everyone come to enjoy one of the largest festivals in the entire Eifel region. Gorgeous countryside, good food, great beer; what else more can anyone ask?

Even if you’re not here during Daun’s festivals there’s still stuff for you to do. You can see the old War Memorial; and at the St. Nicholas Church there’s a 13th century Romanesque crypt. Sounds creepy, I know, but still the artwork is worth the heebie-jeebies. ;-)

Keep the creepers with you when you visit Daun’s Protestant cemetery with opulent (is that even the right word?) gravestones from the 19th century.

I wouldn’t leave Daun on a creepy-crawly note. Go see the Dauner Burg, a castle that was built back in the 11th century. Oh, wait. The castle’s in ruins — so maybe you will leave Daun with that eerie feeling.

I guess that’s better than a bag full of lava. ;-)

I don’t think it’s fair that Saxony sometimes gets shoved aside by some of Germany’s other federal states. You know what I’m talking about. Lower Saxony has the Lünebug Heath and Bavaria has the Alps and all.

But, Saxony is the true heart of Germany. A place where normal, everyday people live. And I don’t mean just live. I’m talking about working, laughing, praying, you know LIVE. And the people that do it in the town of Groitzsch and its 29 half-timbered communities dotted with manor houses, churches, and a nature reserve.

First (and foremost) the castle. The Wiprechtsburg is one of the oldest Burgs in the entire federal state, but, not too much of this 11th/12th century castle still stands today. There is an outdoor stage at the castle for cultural events — it makes an awesome backdrop, doesn’t it?

One of the castle’s former owners is buried at the Church of St. Laurentius in nearby Pegau.

If you’ve come to see this church, you should come to see the church of St. Martin in the village of Audigast, it’s Romanesque and Baroque architecture is heavenly to say the least. Over in the village of Pödelwitz there’s another Romanesque church.

Romanesque architecture was really popular in the Middle Ages, so every time you find one in one of Groitzsch’s villages — you’ll know they were a proper medieval town.

OK, maybe the village of Gatzen doesn’t have a church from the Romanesque period — theirs is Gothic (now Baroque, too).

All these churches are excellent to see some serious pieces of art, all for free. Hey, who doesn’t want to save a few bucks, quid, or Euro. Hiking and cycling around the Nature Reserve or chilling out at Großstolpener Lake doesn’t cost all that much; just a few bucks for a picnic or bike rental and you’re good to go.

Walking past many of Groitzsch’s half-timbered houses won’t drain the pocketbook, either; one of the oldest dates to around 1689.

With the money you’ve saved, you can get yourselves some tickets to Groitzsch’s Puppet Theater or to visit the Museum housed in the City Tower. Or, just get yourself an apartment with your savings — and do like thousands others — LIVE in Groitzsch.

If I were to put every pretty town in Germany in a hat (to pick the best one) I think I’d need one bigger than a 10-gallon Stetson. But, I do know that the town of Großbottwar would be in it.

Positioned between Ludwigsburg and Heilbronn, Großbottwar is a refined town of rolling hills and vast meadows of green fields.

Farming’s no stranger to Großbottwar, the Romans were doing back in the 3rd century AD; and Stone Age man lived here long before the Italians had their brick factory here.

Thanks to a bit of luck, Großbottwar didn’t suffer by any ravages of war, nor did it experience any devastating fire; so, many of its framework houses and buildings are still around. One of its most beautiful one is its Town Hall from the 1550’s; although its clock tower wasn’t added for another two centuries.

It’s not the oldest building, that’s the Stadtschänke built in 1434. It’s also one of the oldest in the Ludwigsburg District.

Another timber-framed jewel is the Crooked House. It looks a bit odd, but it’s most certainly not leaning or anything like that.

Oops, sorry, I’m wrong. The Stadtschänke is the oldest framework building; the St. Martin Church is really the oldest building, built in 1279.

I’m sure someone said, “Man can’t live by architecture alone” (I think that might even have been me); so here’s your jumping off point to getting out amongst the vineyards or climbing up Großbottwar’s observation towers. It’s been thrilling outdoor adventure seekers since 1889.

It wouldn’t be proper to not tell you about the Alb-Neckar Bike Path, for another kind of outdoor pursuit. Tell ya what, do the bike route first — then go to the observation tower; there’s a picnic area here.

Forget the beer and brat this time; I’ll meet up with you for some wine & cheese. This is a refined area of Baden-Württemberg, after all.

There are eight villages that make up the town of Groß Kreutz (Havel) in Brandenburg. Each is unique and worth visiting on their own — if you have the time. But, as always, I’ll give you the highlights. This way you can decide where you want to go.

Bochow is a relatively new hamlet, only around since the 19th century so no medieval sites to see here. But, it does have a Neo-Romanesque church if you want to have a look see.

Deetz is Groß Kreutz’s medieval village, having been around since the late 12th century. Which is why you’ll find a medieval church dead smack in the center of town.

You’ll also find quite a few hiking trails in Deetz and a few swim holes to take a dip. Maps of the trails and holes are available for sale — a good investment I would say.

The Easter Run in Deetz is always a fun time. And the Cattle Museum and Museum Deetz are very educational.

Within Groß Kreutz itself you’ll find a thatched roofed meeting house close to modern family homes. That, and a regional train with frequent service to Berlin.

Jeserig can boast its own medieval church, while Krielow is known more for its prehistoric settlements and archaeological finds.

It’s also known for its Havelländdischer Baumkreis, a circle of trees where the Fire Brigade sets ablaze an Easter bonfire. That’s not the only festival — the Summer Festival takes place in early July.

Schenkenberg is the youngest of the villages, as it wasn’t built until the 20th century. Quiet, peaceful, it’s a right proper place to raise a family.

Schmergow is another medieval village, but totally modern. Its stone church from the Middle Ages is quite something and the ferry ride to Ketzin is quick & easy.

You see, you’ve certainly got a bit to do here in Groß Kreutz. I sure hope you’ve got the time to see it all. You could spend a whole day in those swim holes alone!

Efringen-Kirchen is a great wine town in southern Baden-Württemberg bordering the River Rhine and the country of France. This is a very old town, dating back as far as the Stone Age; and as well as having both a Roman and Alemannic settlements.

Efringen-Kirchen also had a large Jewish population (20% of the town’s total population) which dated back to the 1720’s. The entire Jewish population was gone during the National Socialist years in the 1930’s and ’40’s; but its Jewish cemetery is around to see. It has a memorial plaque dedicated to victim’s of the era.

Other sightseeing within Efringen-Kirchen’s eight villages has plenty to keep you busy; and I’ll tell you a little bit about each one. This way you’ll know what it is that you want to see.

Blansingen once belonged to the St. George of the Black Forest Monastery, but it’s its Romanesque St. Peter’s Church (built 1173) that everyone comes to see.

In the village of Egringen, the church dates to the late 8th century (I wish this was the original one, cause that would be outstanding). But, don’t miss out on the old mill and the historic Town Hall (Rathaus in German).

Did I forget to mention that there’s also a Local History Museum?

Oh, I just wrote it — so I guess I didn’t forget. ;-)

Huttinger might not have a medieval church, but it’s a proper medieval village that’s been around since the late 13th century. It’s a good place to find little shops, cafes, and watch the world go by.

Istein’s got the half-timbered houses that everyone loves so much. It’s also the place where wine is made and asparagus (it’s the “king’s vegetable,” you know) grows along vast fields. It’s got a castle; and every four years (on leap years) there’s the Chlimsefest at Pentecost (check the Christian calendar for those dates). But, its Carnival is a much anticipated annual event.

Kleinkems is for the adventurous types, since it’s got caves and a prehistoric mine to explore.

Come to Mappach to see yet another church; but this one’s frescoes from the 1500’s (not discovered until the early 20th century) is worth the time and effort.

There’s not much going on in the village of Welmlingen, but come anyway. Sit for a spell and meet the neighbors.

That only leaves Wintersweiler. This shire suffered greatly during the Thirty Years’ War, plague outbreaks, and crop failures. Today, it’s a thriving village with a gorgeous church from the 1760’s.

The best part of Efringen-Kirchen? The Wine Festival in July. But, I would probably recommend doing all the cycling, hiking, and nature trail exploring before hitting the “sauce.”

Better yet, get yourself a designated driver and have a blast! :-)

I can feel the wind from the North Sea blowing on my face as I write this about Essen (Oldenburg). It is fair to say that Essen (Oldenburg) isn’t a seaside town; it’s a bit further south, but those strong northerly winds find their way, don’t they?

Essen isn’t your tropical vacation destination, either, but it does have a good number of warm, sunny days. If you like the colder, blustery weather, you’ll find that you’re totally agreeable to the climate most of the time.

You don’t want it to be too hot when you tackle the Trimm-Dich-Pfad (the Trim Trail), do you? Don’t worry if you’re not in perfect shape, it’s designed for every level of fitness or age group.

You will need to at least know how to ride a bike if you want to take a guided bike tour around the Lower Saxon countryside. Guided walking tours are also available, just in case you don’t know how.

Tours (or even on your own) will take around Essen to many of its half-timbered houses, to its St. Bartholomew Church, and its Heritage House — that’s a fine museum about its local history.

When windmills are what you’re looking for, Essen’s Diekmann Mill is just the place. This is also where the annual Mill Day festivities take place in June.

The mill isn’t the only source of festival fun. There’s a huge Spring Festival every year, and a Village Party in August. The Fire Brigade Ball in November is also always a good time, just so you know.

Other cultural events in Essen (Oldenburg) include everything from wine tasting to summer concerts (for those of you who LIKE the warmer weather, like I do).

Essen’s saltwater swimming pool is just the thing to soak tired aching muscles; since dancing and sightseeing is such a workout, isn’t it? The water is a constant 32°C, so it’s like floating around a huge bathtub.

Sometimes I wish it was an outdoor pool. This way I could enjoy more of the cool northern German air with North Sea wind blowing on my face all the while bubbling in comfortably warming water. :-)

How do I tell you about the fantastic town of Langenberg? Do I go right for the gusto and highlight all the amazing old buildings? Or, do I jump right into all the activities that’ll keep you busy morning, noon, and night?

Then I came up with this theory, Langenberg’s buildings have been here for years, and they’re not going anywhere. So, activities it is!

For starters, Langenberg has a handful of hiking trails with distances ranging from seven to eleven kilometers. There are also three Nordic Walking tracks.

The town also lies on a cycling route known as the Hellweg-Weser BahnRadRoute. This cycling trail is a 275km long scenic route that runs from North Rhine-Westphalia to Lower Saxony through the Teutoburg Forest with stops in Lipptstadt, Hamelin, Bad Sassendorf, and many others.

Hopefully you’ve managed to plan your route to be in Langenberg for the annual Town Festival in September or the Christmas Fair on the first weekend of Advent.

The Christmas Fair isn’t the only winter activity. There’s an amateur theater group that performs during the colder season.

What else does Langenberg have in store? It’s time to see the historical side of town.

One of the oldest buildings in town is the Café Zur Linde. While it is a real café, it is a former inn from the 16th century. The building itself was built in 1567 (even though there’s a stone dating to around 1649); and you’ll find it right on the Kirchplatz.

There are three churches in Langenberg that are worth seeing. The Friedenskirche or Church of Peace is the youngest of them, built in 1860, the Church of St. Anthony was built a decade earlier; and the oldest is the Catholic Church of St. Lambertus and St. Lawrence.

Sts. Lambertus and Lawrence is a hodge-podge of architecture and art. It was built in a Romanesque style in the 1230’s (with neo-Gothic accents added later), its nave dates to the 15th century, and it has 16th century artwork inside.

Throughout Langenberg you’ll see many 18th century framework houses; and one manor house has been around since the building of the Lambertus and Lawrence church.

While you’re out and about you might have noticed the Brauerei Hohenfelde by now. This brewery’s been making fine German beer for years — which you’ll be able to taste while you’re visiting the lovely Café Zur Linde.

There you go — kill two birds with one stone; this way you got more time to spend looking around Langenberg, right?