For anyone who thinks we Germans don’t have a sense of humor, you’re sadly mistaken. Any country that decides to have a handful of towns or villages with the same name is just doing it to get a giggle out of trying to see figure out which one you’re supposed to go to.
Either way, the one in the Westerwald it is this time around.
I really think you’ll like Waldbrunn (Westerwald), it’s a charming town of five hamlets with all sorts of cultural events and historic buildings.
One of the most famous is the 14th century Burg Eller, a ruin that’s in pretty good shape considering it’s been abandoned for almost 500 years. It’s also the site of the town’s Burgfest every August. Oh, and it has an observation tower, too.
You’ll probably be in Eller the longest, since you’ve still got to see its former Jewish cemetery and its St. Maximinus Church, and to find parts of its 14th century Stadtmauer.
Hausen is another nice village, full of walking trails and a church from the late 19th century. It’s really known for its Kirchweihfest, held on the second weekend of August every year.
Fussingen’s church is one of the youngest, St. Leonard was built in the early 20th century. Lots of folks flock to this village of less than 600 people every year in June for its annual Fair.
Lahr is one of the most historical, found on an old border between the Houses of Nassau. It’s also got some framework houses, a very old cemetery (they make good parks), a whole slew of biking and hiking trails, and a Pfarrfest and Carnival Parade to party the days away.
I’m pretty sure I’ve missed some festivals in Waldbrunn…
Oh yes, the Kirmes in Hausen in August, the Kirmes in Hintermeilingen, a Thanksgiving Festival in September, and an Autumn Festival in November.
Oh yeah, I’ve also left out telling you about the village of Hintermeilingen — a town known for its numerous walking trails (including Nordic Walking), and its Church of the Annunciation.
It might be funny to find your way to the right Waldbrunn, but it’s a seriously great place to be once you’re there.
