If you’re one of those people who enjoy finding little known “out of the way” places, then you’ve found it in Rödental — a Franconian delight that once had ties to what became forever known as Victorian England.
Okay, how does a town steeped in German tradition, have something in common with the English Royal Family? Well, it was here at the ornate 15th century Schloss Rosenau where Prince Albert, the husband of long reigning Queen Victoria of England, was born. Schloss Rosenau was once the summer home of the Dukes of Coburg, but you only have to pay a mere 4 Euro to walk in the footsteps of royalty.
Don’t forget to walk around the ruins of the 12th century Castle Lauterburg, too.
Another place to walk around is the Goebel Porcelain Museum, but the factory is where you’ll find the most beautiful gifts to bring home to loved ones, including Hummels, so don’t forget to splurge on some for yourself.
After only a short time you’ll see why the German poet Heinrich Schaumberger wrote about his hometown so eloquently. There’s a museum dedicated to this author, but you’re going to have to call ahead to schedule a visit.
No calling ahead is needed if you’re going to visit the Froschgrundsee. This artificially made lake is the perfect place to go for some great outdoor activities; including hiking and cycling trails on shady lined trails.
But, on the third Sunday in October you’ll want to be over in the neighborhood of Mönchröden for the annual Kirchweih festival.
Anytime of the year is great to visit some of Rödental’s other religious sites, some dating back to the days of the Middle Ages. One of the churches to see here is the Parish Church Johannes, built in 1517. But, it’s the Benedictine Monastery that’s the oldest, as it was built in 1149 and used for more than 400 years.
You’re bound to find just about everything you could ask for here in Rödental, from beautiful castles to the most fantastic shopping. No matter what you see or do, you’ve found that neat little out of the way place.
