A castle, old churches, a spa full of massages and saunas, and even the Swabian Alb countryside to delight the eyes — have I died and gone to Heaven? Could the Filstal Region village of Bad Ditzenbach possibly be the best place to spend eternity? I’m thinking it very well could be.
Even if you don’t consider Bad Ditzenbach Heaven-on-Earth, one of its villages (Gosbach) was the first place winner of the Unser Dorf soll schöner werden award (Our Village is Beautiful) — so close enough. ;-)
As with most places, if you’re not familiar with what to see or do then it’s always preferable to stop at the local Tourist Office — in this case located at Helfenstein Straße 20.
Whether you stop there, or not, is optional; however, the Vinzenz Therme is non-negotiable. Why? Because you don’t come to a state spa town and not enjoy the spa. Hey, the mineral water climbs up some 600 meters from below the surface for you to relax in one of the spa’s indoor or outdoor pools. The least you could do is come by and greet it.
Not to mention there’s also a Barefoot Path and Kneipp area, too.
I’m on the move plenty, so when given the chance to rejuvenate at a local spa I’m taking it. What’s nice about the local spa here are the various saunas with a range of temperatures, plus different massages, and even a steam bath.
Here’s the dilemma though: Do you spend a lazy day getting pampered? Or, do you spend the day doing the outdoorsy stuff? You know, like hiking (the Maiweg is popular at only 7km), or try mountain or e-biking. Perhaps getting out for a run on a jogging trail, or maybe give a Segway a spin?
Sorry, not for me today. But, I’d considered returning in the winter for some cross-country or downhill skiing.
Wait, I take that back, because during the winter months the ruins of the Hiltenberg aren’t open. Just keep in mind that it’s a 45 minute walk to see this Burgruine, and so totally worth it. What? you don’t know I’m a huge sucker for 13th century castle ruins? Not to mention it has an outstanding view of the Filstal region.
I’m also a sucker for a good party, which is why I’m happy to tell you there are number of them here. May is exceptionally popular for these cultural events, with the Mittelalterliches Fest (think Middle Ages), or the Maifest, and the Bockbierfest.
Hold on a sec, let me double check to make sure I’m not in Bavaria… ;-)
Interestingly enough, the Ziegenfest (Goat Festival) was surprising. it was partly about food, partly about a petting zoo for the kids, and partly about whiskey.
All I can say is it was a good thing to know there are plenty of guesthouses, private rooms and apartments, and a few hotels to spend a few nights after that. Whew…
Rather have something quieter? Ok, the Natur-Genuss-Zentrum should work. It’s all about life here on the Swabian Alb — and it’s a venue for lectures and workshops.
Sounds great, but for me it’s off to see the 14th century Church of St. Magnus — then back to spa for more pampering where I could easily spend eternity. ;-)
