One thing’s for sure, you’ll never hear me complaining about having to go back to Bavaria — especially when I’m headed to a place like Weitnau in the Allgäu.
Could you imagine someone grumbling and griping: oh no, please don’t make me go towards the German Alps — it’ll be absolute torture. ;-)
Yeah, I just don’t see that happening. What I do see, is a town of great festivals and grand old churches, as well as finding itself along a spiritual scenic route; and a town that lives up to its motto of being “more than cheese & cows.”
It is more than cheese & cows, although the cows are the highlight of the annual Cattle Drive in September. It’s not like the running of the bulls in Spain, but is a grand event to come out to meet the folks lucky enough to live here.
Another great event to make new friends would be the Bockbierfest, along with the Castle Festival in August and Autumn Market (also in September). I’m kind of fond of Christmas Markets, so it’s really nice to find one here, too.
As many of you already know, I’m super fond of old churches and castles. After a visit to the Burgruine Trauchburg (built in the 1100s), and seeing the amazing artwork at the St. Pelagius Church, you will be too.
Don’t stop your church visiting tour yet, you haven’t seen the Pfarrkirche (Parish Church) of St. Margaret (15th century), or the five-plus churches and chapels scattered throughout the rest of Weitnau. Hmm, no wonder the place lies along the Bavarian/Swabian leg of the Way of St. James.
Your trek going from chapel to church is a good way to experience the bright Bavarian sunshine. And it’s no problem if you’re here during the winter — where you’re able to go skiing (downhill & cross-country), snowboarding, or try snow hiking with snowshoes (no problem if you didn’t pack yours, you can rent them).
It’s probably best to wait for Spring or Summer to do a round of golf at the local 18-hole course, though.
The folks in Weitnau most certainly have it right — there’s definitely more than cheese & cows here. And you for sure won’t hear me complaining. ;-)
