Almost 50% of Eschenburg is wooded. Yes, that’s right, wooded, including a spot that commemorates an amorous count’s jail time. With so much underdevelopment, many archaeological finds (many from the Celtic Age) in this Hessian town were found in pretty good condition.

But, now that I think about it — with all the silver, nickel, copper, and iron mined here; it’s amazing how the area isn’t overdeveloped. Well, who am I to look a gift horse in the mouth? I’ll just enjoy Eschenburg and all its wooded parts for what it is.

The Heimatmuseum (Local History Museum) is one of the best places to understand where Eschenburg came from. Out by the village of Simmerbach (one of seven of Eschenburg’s municipalities) is the Philippsbuche, commemorating Philip I’s return from a five year imprisonment in 1552. The reasons of his incarceration by the Dutch & Spanish are a bit unclear though.

Why give a care about Philip? Glad you asked — he was instrumental in bringing about the Reformation in Germany; having met Martin Luther in 1521. To bad this randy bloke didn’t take his first marriage all that seriously; and he tricked Luther into letting him marry wife number two.

It’s little tidbits of history like this that make you appreciate what you’re seeing around town so much more!

What else you can appreciate in Eschenburg is what you can do in the Hessian countryside. If you’re brave enough, why not try hang gliding?

If you’d rather stay on terra firma, Eschenburg can oblige with tennis, soccer, or cross country skiing. There’s a downhill ski run to try if you think you’re good enough.

Warmer weather is when the outdoor pool opens up and adds beach volleyball to the list of sports to do. Swimming is something you can do year round since Eschenburg has an indoor pool, too.

I’m thinking that if all these activities in Eschenburg were around in Philip’s day, he might have found other ways to occupy his time and burn off all that energy. ;-)

Eningen unter Achalm is a town within the Swabian Alb. It’s where you’ll meet the most honest, hard working, friendliest people just about anywhere in the world.

Even if you speak German, you might not understand them though since here on the Alb, Swabian is widely spoken.

The countryside of Eningen is so beautiful with its plateaus and meadows with mountains that tower in the background. It won’t matter if you ride a bike or walk around, you’ll be more than happy to just be here. Climb up Eningen’s observation tower (there are parts of the medieval defense wall there, too) for a most excellent view of the Alb.

It tends to snow here in the winter which gives you the chance to go skiing, if you’re into that sort of thing. Fastnacht is a winter festival that shouldn’t be missed. The festival, held before the start of Lent (usually in February) is a very big deal here on the Swabian Alb.

The outdoor pool in Eningen is going to be closed in the colder weather, so you’ll have to save that for the warmer weather months. Miniature golfing, tennis, and hanging out at the local recreational park are also warm weather month activities.

If you’ve got the willpower to pull yourself indoors, come see the Local History Museum (called Heimatmuseum). Oh, you can do it — it’s only open on the 1st Sunday of the month from April to October from 2pm to 5pm. It’s located at Eitlinger Straße 3, which is right down the lane from the Paul Jauch Museum (located at Eitlinger Straße 5). This museum is at least open every Sunday from 2pm-5pm.

There aren’t many historical churches within Eningen itself, nor does the town have a castle. Not that it’s a bad thing, but if you really must see one then head on over to the bigger town of Reutlingen — plus, there are several other churches and castles scattered throughout the Alb.

I love our German castles as much as the next person; but, I’d be happy and content right here in Eningen — understanding all the funny things the locals are saying. ;-)

Not too much went on in the Lower Saxony town of Emmerthal from when people first moved here 60,000 years ago until around the Middle Ages. Well, I mean people lived, worked, and toiled the soil but, not all that much remains from all those light years ago.

The serfs, counts, and barons worked to build most of the sites that you’re able to see when you come to this village and all seventeen of her shires.

One of the most frequented of places is Schloss Hämelschenburg, which you could consider to be one of the most beautiful of Renaissance castles. It’s open to tourists from April to October; and you’ll be totally stunned at all the intricate artwork and its opulence. It’s exterior is one of the most unique of any castle you will ever see — it’s hard to explain, you just gotta see it!

Burg Ohsen is another one of Emmerthal’s castles but that’s a more traditional style looking castle. I’m not advising not to check it out, but it does pale in comparison to Hämelschenburg (that also holds musical concerts).

During the Thirty Years’ War that raged on for 30 years in 1618-1648 (uh, sorry not that you couldn’t figure that one out on your own) many of Germany’s towns, churches, and castles were totally destroyed.

Not here in Emmerthal. For reasons unknown Emmerthal’s Marienkirche, built in 1563, was totally spared. It still stands to this very day.

As striking as the town’s medieval beauty is, it is overshadowed by the region’s natural beauty. Emmerthal lies within the Naturpark Weserbergland, a forested area that’s filled with all sorts of treats. Within the forest you’ll find many walking paths, cycling trails, golf, caves, and a chance to even go rock climbing.

Don’t let winter stop you from enjoying the Weserbergland — there’s always skiing or anything else you can do when the white powder falls. But, the area is so pretty in the Spring & Summer when all the azaleas and rhododendrons are in full bloom.

Come to think of it… Emmerthal’s natural beauty has been going on all these light years — even if people haven’t been around to see it. Too bad!

If you think I’m sounding like a broken record about beer in Bavaria; you have to understand that Bavaria and beer just go hand in hand together. If you don’t believe me, then why would you find that the Upper Bavarian town of Wolnzach be one of the largest hop growing areas in all of Germany?

For a thousand years the little green things that make beer, a well beer, have been planted here. At Wolnzach’s Deutsches Hopfenmuseum or German Hops Museum you’re able to find out more about what makes this stuff special. Thanks to those German Purity Laws from 1516, the stuff is still made with the same ingredients as they were five centuries ago.

Better yet, after you’ve learned about the brew; go try some. Over at the Bürgerbräu Brewery you can sample some of the best that Bavaria has to offer.

I would recommend that you indulge after you’ve visited the St. Laurentius Church (whose original was built in 800 A.D.), and Wolnzach’s Town Hall (with art exhibitions in the lower level) that overlooks both the Marienplatz and Mariensäule.

Not a good idea to drink the beer before you’ve gone and played on the town’s golf course with 27-holes, gone swimming, tried Nordic Walking, or even renting a bicycle for a spin around the Hallertau.

If you’re curious enough about the region of the Hallertau take a guided tour known as the Hallertau Exhibition. This four kilometer course is an abundance of information about the natural landscape.

Though, I would recommend staying close to the center of town for the annual Folk Festival that takes place in either the beginning or middle of August every year. The town’s circus happens only once every other year.

October, the first weekend actually, brings many pious pilgrims to the area to follow along towards one of the region’s Pilgrimage Churches.

After you’ve done all of that, go back to the Bürgerbräu Brewery. I’ll be waiting for you. ;-)

Merchweiler is more than just your straight forward working class town in the Saarland. This parcel of land in the west of Germany close to France and Luxembourg has got to be some of the most beautiful around the globe; and not a spot you’ll easily forget.

In Merchweiler little things mean the most, which is quite evident in the art gallery exhibitions that are held within its Town Hall and the choir concerts (along with other cultural activities) put on throughout the year.

It’s also evident at the Chapel Maria Himmelfahrt where every flower is lovingly planted to make its garden pleasing for all the senses. Summer is the most beautiful time to visit and where every plant in the Maria Chapel is in full bloom.

The Chapel Celebration on/about August 15th couldn’t come at a better time — when many of the faithful come to pay homage.

That’s also when the Rose Garden, where there are more than 3500 rose bushes, creates the most intoxicating of scents. There’s not a more beautiful place to enjoy a cup of coffee (or, tea) while playing a game of chess (provided by the garden). There’s miniature golf out there, too; and, entrance to the Rose Garden is free. (Don’t get caught picking any, though! ;-)

You’ll probably spend more time within the rose garden than over at the Local History Museum (known as Heimatmuseum in German). But, it’s a good place to visit anyway.

Don’t do a rush through of Merchweiler’s St. Michael’s Church in the village of Wemmetsweiler. It’s been an integral part of village life since the 17th century.

Other old buildings to see around town include some late 18th and mid 19th century farmhouses at Bergstraße 4 and 6, and one at Dorfstraße 27. Haus Ackerman is a charming example of architecture from around the start of the 20th century.

Certainly, I, too, have an affinity for anyplace that thinks small details are just as important as the larger ones.

The main claim to fame in the town of Meßstetten is the Swabian Alb. By making Meßstetten your “base of operations,” you’ll be centrally located within the area to enjoy the best the Alb has to offer — which is something for the whole family.

Making reservations at the Feriendorf Tieringen are a good start. This family friendly resort has been around for many years and the views of the mountains in the background only enhances the charm.

FYI, the village of Heinstetten is one of the highest points on the Alb, some 917 meters (about 3000 ft) above sea level. Yes, that’s some view, isn’t it?

From here, you’re able to venture out to see the romantic Danube Valley in the south and Hohenzollern Castle in the north. I would say that the latter is almost as impressive as Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria; but, that would be a massive stretch of the imagination.

Burg Hohenzollern does have Wilhelm II’s crown, some personal effects of Frederick the Great, and a Thank You letter from George Washington to Baron von Stueben for his help with the American Revolution — so, that alone makes it pretty nifty.

Other than visiting Hohenzollern Castle, being indoors simply won’t do. Rent a bicycle and start galavanting about on all the bicycle trails; or, go exploring the caves all around the area of the Bodensee (Lake Constance).

I know, spend the day at a nearby amusement park or follow along the old Roman Road dotted with a few old Roman estate houses.

It’s not like I’m suggesting that you get up on one of the nearby ski lifts and either ski or ski jump down the mountainside. Although, that is possible if you REALLY wanted to.

The Maurermühle Unterdigisheim, an old mill that was used up until around the 1850’s, might seem pale in comparison to everything else; but, it’s still part of Meßstetten’s history. So, go see it if you can.

You’ll find that the town of Meßstetten (and the surrounding region) is so cool, that you just might find yourself yelling it from atop the hills of the Alb.

To the far northwest of Bavaria in a region known as Lower Franconia is Marktheidenfeld (yeah, that’s a long name, right?). The countryside is so exceptionally gorgeous it’s no wonder the state is the most visited region in the entire country.

It’s places like Marktheidenfeld that make it that way.

While you’re here, you need to visit the pink and blue Franck-Haus. It’s a grand example of Baroque architecture (always ornate) and houses one of the largest collections of miniature books. Better bring along some super industrial sized reading glasses. ;-)

Older than the Franck-Haus is St. Laurentius Church. Within this 700 year old church are examples of four popular building styles including Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. Inside are medieval frescoes and tombs from the 16th century.

More historical sites in Marktheidenfeld include many framework buildings, a historic Town Hall, and the Old Main Bridge made from red sandstone in the 19th century days of Ludwig I from Bavaria.

Also from the 19th century is the Kreuzbergkapelle, a chapel that’s quite popular among Germans for weddings.

As if a wedding isn’t festive enough, Marktheidenfeld has plenty of festivals throughout the year; although many take place during the Spring and Summer.

The Old Town Festival is usually held in June or July; and on the 1st weekend in August is the Köhlerfest in the village of Glasofen (one of the town’s six villages). There’s a Folk Festival in August, too. That’s also when the Laurenzmarkt is held; and where the beer tents are always crowded.

Summer is also when Marktheidenfeld holds its Dragon Cup, a boat race of some sort. Not a good idea to hit a beer garden or tent before going sailing.

But, since this is Bavaria and beer is the beverage of choice — any other time is always a good time to sit at a beer garden and talk about all the wonderful things you’ve seen here.

I’ll do my best to do a pirate impression. Here goes — Arggghhh, Matey! Before you think I’ve flipped my lid, hear me out.

Grevesmühlen up in the far north of Germany (only 15 kilometers south of the Baltic Sea) has a Pirate Outdoor Theater that runs from June to September. Really, what kid doesn’t like a pirate?

Grevesmühlen was a medieval town and this pirate approach is quite a different take on the place. But, if you prefer medieval knights and ladies fair; the town has that stuff, too.

Three of Grevesmühlen’s original city gates still remain, that were once attached to the town’s original Stadtmauer (a defense wall). It always seems like you’re stepping through a time warp when you cross under one. Maybe it’s me?

In the historical town center there are quite a few timber framed buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. But, the oldest one dates back to 1660.

There are also a few medieval thinking marks (places of reflection) throughout Grevesmühlen. One of the oldest dates to around 1391 and is known as the Denkstein of the Ludede Mozellenburch. The stone is so old that its hard to make out the two crucifixes that adorn the stone in memory of someone who came to an untimely end.

Older than that is the well kept Nikolai Church that villagers built in the 13th century. Amazing how the church is still holding services more than 800 years later.

The town’s windmill is a mere baby in terms of age; that was built until 1878. Don’t let its young age stop you from seeing that; or visiting the town’s Jewish Cemetery.

If somehow you still got any energy left, play a family friendly game of miniature golf. Or, trek off towards the Baltic Sea for a day of sand and surf.

Don’t worry, the original mean pirates that used to sail these waters are gone — replaced by the much nicer ones at the Pirate Show.

Welcome to Grünwald, home of the rich and famous! Wait, isn’t that Hollywood in California? No, this is the German version.

The town of Grünwald is home to one of the largest movie studios in Germany, the Bavaria Filmstadt. So, that said — the Upper Bavarian town is home to many influential (famous, wealthy, whatever) people.

Don’t think for one second that this is all Grünwald has to offer. No, this town’s been around a heck of a lot longer than modern man has been making movies. How much longer? Well, there have been artifacts found from the days of the Celtics, the Romans, and the Bronze Age.

The Middle Ages made an impression on the place, too. Many come to see Burg Grünwald and residents will get rightly upset if you refer to it as a Schloss. This is a bonafide castle! It was used as an ammunition depot and prison at one time, but is now a branch of the Archaeological National Museum in Munich.

Not only is Grünwald famous for its castle that’s not a Schloss and its huge film studio, but for the Castle of Wittelsbach, too. This castle was built in the year 1000 and was only around for about 200 years before it was leveled. The dukes, barons, or whatever they’re called ;-) never rebuilt it and finally a church was erected on the spot.

Other sites to see in Grünwald should include a trip to the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, as well as the Chapel of Holy Blood.

And, since this is Upper Bavaria it’s best enjoyed outside (my opinion would be out in a beer garden) but, there’s always great cycling trails and walking paths that lead you off through the countryside.

For the ambitious crowd, try the Trim Path that’s designed to get your muscles moving. Make yourself a deal, if you can complete the entire Trim Path, you’ve certainly earned that brew over at a beer garden.

Gaimersheim is an Upper Bavarian town that’s not really too famous for anything. I’m not trying to put this place down or anything; it is quite charming in a regular “get up, go to work, come home” kind of town.

It is historical, if anything, because people have called this place home from prehistoric days (grave hills were found). The Romans liked it here and built something cute known as Villa Rustica (a Roman estate house).

Other than the obligatory Heimatmuseum (Local History Museum) that details life in Gaimersheim, which is JUST north of gorgeous Ingolstadt, there isn’t all that much to do.

I’m sorry, I did forget about the Backhaus (Bake House) that is where some of Gaimersheim’s events take place.

Oh, and if you like art, then a visit to both the Parish Church Gaimersheim or the Church Lippertshofen (in one of the town’s three hamlets) would be a good idea. Old churches are always a great place to stop and see some amazing artwork. Part of the art’s charm is how much pious devotion the artists put into their work.

Wait, there’s still more…

For something more modern and popular with all of Gaimersheim’s residents is Aquamarin. This pool complex is the best for enjoying a day swimming or just sitting by the water. The kids are free to play in an area just for them; although they’ll love careening down the waterslide.

Parents might prefer a soak in Aquamarin’s mineral bath to soothe away tired achy muscles. Hey, if you’re a parent running around after little kids, you know EXACTLY what I’m talking about!

Of course you can always tire the little ones out by getting them involved in a game of tennis, bowling, or just hiking around the Upper Bavarian landscape. Wait, that might make the grown-ups just as tired.

I confess I was wrong… With all that stuff on offer, it’s well worth (both time and money) to spend a night (or two) here in Gaimersheim. Plus, you can stop in a Upper Bavarian beer garden before heading off to bed.