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. ;-)
