A popular tourist destination for the Swiss, Germans and Netherlanders is the small town of Luino on the northeast end of Lake Maggiore. The boat services on the lake are divided here for destinations north of it and south of it. From the south, especially from Stresa, it is difficult, if not impossible, to arrange a roundtrip to this town except on wednesdays. Even to get here by train is a three to five hour ordeal and roundtrips by rail or bus are all but out of the question. The town is truely lacking service from the southern end of the lake.
Other Boat Leaving – Lake Boat Trip – Luino, Italy
Luino
It seems a popular destination for people from the north, who are either staying in Switzerland or the nearby town of Cannobio. It is especially busy on Wednesdays, this is when the town holds its weekly market. [1]Proportedly the largest in Europe, but that is not possible. The one in Turin far eclipses it in size and weekly frequency, being open every day and not just the middle of the week.
Wednesday Market Place – Luino, Italy
Hemlock Near Church Of Saints Peter And Paul – Luino, Italy
Piazza Risorgimento – Luino, Italy
Piazza Risorgimento – Luino, Italy
At one time the town was heavily industrialized and there were many textile factories here, which accounted for the terrible pollution the lake had to endure for years after its demise. Luckily today, the lake has considerably cleaner water that in the previous century.
Lungolago – Luino, Italy
Lungolago – Luino, Italy
Lungolago – Luino, Italy
Lungolago – Luino, Italy
Getting There
From the north, the map shows all traffic by boat going through Cannobio. From the south, we took the boat from Stresa. From there we stopped a half dozen times before reaching our destination.
Navigation Map – Lake Boat Trip – Luino, Italy
Stresa Boat Dock – Lake Boat Trip – Luino, Italy
It should be noted, if you are traveling from the south and want to go further than Luino, you can, you just may have to change boats in Luino.
Beautiful Day – Lake Boat Trip – Luino, Italy
Coming Into Our First Stop – Lake Boat Trip – Luino, Italy
Arriving In Luino – Lake Boat Trip – Luino, Italy
Our Boat – Lake Boat Trip – Luino, Italy
From Stresa the trip is not inexpensive to Luino. For roundtrip tickets it cost us €15.20 per person[2]or about $18 per person.
Tickets For Two – Lake Boat Trip – Luino, Italy
Church of Saints Peter and Paul
A walk through the town and above most if, you will find the Church of Saints Peter and Paul. An unusual church which looks more like an administrative building than a church.
Front And Entrance – Church Of Saints Peter And Paul – Luino, Italy
The inside does have some marble, but the rest of the nave and ceiling are painted in the style trompe-l’œil, giving the impression of relief where none really exists.
Nave – Church Of Saints Peter And Paul – Luino, Italy
Altar – Church Of Saints Peter And Paul – Luino, Italy
Restaurants
When we arrived in Luino, we only had three hours before our boat trip back, so we had to make good use of our time. Subsequently, we looked for a place to eat first and chose the Trattoria da Elia e Ugo.
Front – Trattoria da Elia e Ugo – Via Felice Cavallotti – Luino, Italy
Trattoria da Elia e Ugo
A small restaurant that caters to locals and tourists alike. They speak very good english, so there should be no problem with the language; they are even willing to look words up in order to make sure they have the correct word.
Entrance – Trattoria da Elia e Ugo – Via Felice Cavallotti – Luino, Italy
Patti – Trattoria da Elia e Ugo – Via Felice Cavallotti – Luino, Italy
The food is very good and well portioned. The caprese is rather large and good enough for two. The pasta dishes are also fairly large and well seasoned.
Caprese – Trattoria da Elia e Ugo – Via Felice Cavallotti – Luino, Italy
Pasta Special – Trattoria da Elia e Ugo – Via Felice Cavallotti – Luino, Italy
Aside from the popular marketplace on wednesdays and the odd historical monument, there really is not much to see in Lunio. Coming from the south, it can only be commended for the odd day trip with lunch as the primary reason for the expedition, since it is rather far away and the boat service only runs roundtrip on wednesday, so plan accordingly.
Proportedly the largest in Europe, but that is not possible. The one in Turin far eclipses it in size and weekly frequency, being open every day and not just the middle of the week.
On the border of Hesse and Bavaria, in the Odenwald, is the town of Michelstadt. It’s curious, because its name contains within it a word that most english speaking people would think it should be a city, when in fact, the germans use the denotation for both town and city. Technically, it is considered a Kleinstadt, or small city, or what we call a town and should carry the stadt on the end of its name.
Michelstadt
The town is one of the oldest within what is called the inner Odenwald. There has been some sort of settlement there ever since the eighth century. Like other small towns of this nature, its layout has a certain lazy circle about it, indicating it was protected by some kind of fortification or wall. Evidence of this can be found on Kellerbergstraße, where part of the wall remains, and Mauerstraße where it can be seen in its former glory.
Stadtgäßchen and Stadtmauer – Mauerstraße – Michelstadt, Germany
To get to Michelstadt you will take either the 45 or 47 from the north or the south. On the north of town is a very large parking area which we used, conveniently located close to the town’s center.
Rte. 45 – Michelstadt, Germany
Bahnhofstraße – Michelstadt, Germany
Zum Grüner Baum – Großer Gasse – Michelstadt, Germany
Oberer Pfarrgasse – Michelstadt, Germany
Große Gasse – Michelstadt, Germany
Große Gasse – Michelstadt, Germany
Town Hall
The Town Hall, or Rathaus, is one of the more prominent buildings in the town. It stands a bit off-center in the Marktplatz and has an old press, a scale and other items associated with the buildings history in the open area underneath it.
Marktplatz – Michelstadt, Germany
Altes Rathaus – Marktplatz – Michelstadt, Germany
Altes Rathaus – Marktplatz – Michelstadt, Germany
Altes Rathaus – Marktplatz – Michelstadt, Germany
The Marktplatz contains a main foutain, which the town appears to decorate for holidays and other occasions.
Marktbrunnen – Marktplatz – Michelstadt, Germany
Marktbrunnen – Marktplatz – Michelstadt, Germany
Löwenhof – Marktplatz – Michelstadt, Germany
Marktplatz – Michelstadt, Germany
Marktplatz – Michelstadt, Germany
Marktplatz – Michelstadt, Germany
Michelstadt Fortress
The Michelstadt Fortress, or Burg Michelstadt, is probably more of a stronghold than any castle or fortress. Though it sits on a high wall with a moat, it is not as impressive as other german castles or fortresses. Today it houses a mill museum, which unfortunately was not open at the time of our visit.
Old Wall – Kellerbergstraße – Michelstadt, Germany
Diebsturm and Museum – Kellerbergstraße – Michelstadt, Germany
Diebsturm
The Diebsturm, or Thieves’ Tower, is part of and sits next to Burg Michelstadt. The sump or cellar of the tower was used as a prison starting sometime in the early fourteenth century. Prisoners were lowered down on a rope into the cellar to wait our their term. It is one of the more prominent features of the town.
Diebsturm and Museum – Kellerbergstraße – Michelstadt, Germany
Ericka and Patti – Diebsturm – Marktplatz – Michelstadt, Germany
Dr. I. E. Lichtigfeld Museum
This museum preserves the jewish past of the town, neatly preserved in the former Synagoge Michelstadt that was destroyed during the prelude to the second world war.
Dr. I. E. Lichtigfeld Museum – Mauerstraße – Michelstadt, Germany
Here one can get a sense of the small jewish population that used to inhabit the town, which also has numerous Stolpersteine[1]these are small brass memorials laid in the ground for jews and people who were killed, deported or driven to suizide commemorating the people of the town that lost their lives. They can be found throughout Germany and parts of Europe.
Dr. I. E. Lichtigfeld Museum – Mauerstraße – Michelstadt, Germany
Dr. I. E. Lichtigfeld Museum – Mauerstraße – Michelstadt, Germany
The museum also backs up to the old town wall and has a nice little park, where one can quietly sit and enjoy the weather.
Dr. I. E. Lichtigfeld Museum – Alter Stadtmauer – Michelstadt, Germany
Dr. I. E. Lichtigfeld Museum – Alter Stadtmauer – Michelstadt, Germany
Dr. I. E. Lichtigfeld Museum – Park – Michelstadt, Germany
Restaurants
Due to its size, there is not much to choose from, but there are a few restaurants in the Marktplatz. We chose a brewery close to the edge of town for lunch.
Michelstädter Rathausbräu
The Michelstädter Rathausbräu is a brewery and restaurant. It serves good food typical of the area. They don’t speak much english, so be prepared to whip out your translation guide or phone. However, the food is very good and they have their own brew on tap.
Rathausbräu Restaurant and Brewery – Mauerstraße – Michelstadt, Germany
Rathausbräu Restaurant and Brewery – Mauerstraße – Michelstadt, Germany
Rathausbräu Restaurant and Brewery – Mauerstraße – Michelstadt, Germany
The one unique feature this city has over others that we have visited are its Bächle, or small streams or runnels that network themselves through most city streets. Though in the past they were used for waste disposal and fire suppression, their contemporary revision is much cleaner and used more for fun than anything functional.
Freiburg im Breisgau
The city lays on the lower west side of the Schwarzwald, or the Black Forest. It is an odd mixture of contemporary and renovated old buildings, but appears to be very liveable. They have an active tram system and local buses, though the residents do appear to enjoy walking for the most part.
Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Old Freiburger Zeitung Building – Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Zum Meijerhof Restaurant Building – Grünwälderstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Getting There
It is almost necessary to use the A5 to reach the city, though I imagine there might be other ways as well. We entered from the north, via Europaplatz, where we found adequate parking nearby. Europaplatz offers access to the tram system and might be a good starting point for those not wishing to walk.
Habsburgerstraße – Europaplatz – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Friedrichring – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Kaiser-Josephstraße – Monument – Europaplatz – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Kaiser-Josephstraße – Monument – Europaplatz – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
The Bächle
The Bächle[1]the term is Bächlein in german are on most streets, at least in the older parts of the city. As a child, if you’ve ever had the occasion to play in a small stream or ditch, then you would just love Freiburg im Breisgau. They sure delight the city children. The city appears to be very child friendly and they even sell little boats on a string for children to play with in the Bächle.
Bächle – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Ericka, Vlad and Gabi – Bächle – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Bächle – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Schwabentor
The Schwabentor, or Swabian Gate, is the most recent gate to the city and is located on Herrenstraße, another street which has a Bächle.
Oberlindenbrunnen and Schwabentor – Herrenstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Herrenstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Freiburger Münster
The first bricks for the large gothik style Freiburger Münster, or Münster Unserer Lieben Frau, were laid around 1146. After several incantations as a small unassuming church through 1260, the church was redesigned with new importance in the late 1200s. It wasn’t until the late 1400s that it attained is final form one can see today.
Freiburger Münster Cathedral – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Freiburger Münster Cathedral – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Münsterplatz And Merchant’s Hall
The Münsterplatz is adjacent to the cathedral and includes several city buildings and businesses.
Münsterplatz – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Münsterplatz – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Münsterplatz – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
One historic building that stands out in Münsterplatz is the Historisches Kaufhaus, or Merchant’s Hall. With its striking red exterior it is impossible to miss and the result of contemporary renovations, having suffered bomb damage and other design changes throughout the years. The facade today is adorned with replicas of Holy Roman Emperors and an Archduke, who did not become emperor because he died before his father and didn’t inherit all of his father’s titles.
Merchants Hall – Münsterplatz – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Merchants Hall – Münsterplatz – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Augustinerplatz
Though not much to look at the Augustinerplatz is where the museum and several other important government buildings are located, including for us ironically, the Italian Consulate.
Augustinerplatz – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Augustinerplatz – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Gerberau – Augustinerplatz – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Museum – Augustinerplatz – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Connecting Augustinerplatz to Kaiser-Josephstraße is Gerberau street.
Gerberau – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Martinstor
A major gate in the city, aside from the swabian gate, or Scwabentor, is Martinstor. Located on Kaiser-Josephstraße, more or less in the center of town, the tower stands above all the other buildings. The street runs directly through the tower, like in many other walled cities in Germany and delineates the old city from its newer parts.
Martinstor – Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Martinstor – Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Martinstor – Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Martinstor – Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Restaurants
For our day trip we chose to have chinese or japanese and found a nice modern place that opened in the remains of the old Laubfrosch restaurant.
Unkai
If you are looking for either chinese or japanese cuisine look no further than Unkai Asian Fusion.
Unkai Restaurant – Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
The decor inside is decidedly modern and the staff is very attentive to your needs, especially if that has to do with children.
Unkai Restaurant – Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Unkai Restaurant – Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Unkai Restaurant – Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Unkai Restaurant – Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Unkai Restaurant – Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Unkai Restaurant – Kaiser-Josephstraße – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Anyone walking through the idealic and picturesque city of Colmar, France will notice the abundance of timber and sandstone used in it’s buildings. From simple timber framed houses, to large churches built almost entirely of sandstone.
Colmar
The city of Colmar has benefited from both French and German influences, especially with it’s architecture. This is what makes it such an interesting place to visit. Not only have many of the structures survived the many wars between the two countries, the population has seemed to have taken care of them down through the centuries.
Getting There
From Frankfurt you can the A5, which I believe is only designated a 5 now. We took it and then cut over to France at Strasbourg and took the A35 down. If you take that route you get to enjoy the Statue of Liberty.
Statue of Liberty – 33 Route de Strasbourg – Colmar, France
Statue of Liberty – 33 Route de Strasbourg – Colmar, France
Timber Houses
The city is repleat with Fachwerkhäuser, or timber houses. Many dating back many centuries and showing their age.
Timber House – Colmar, France
La Petite Venise – Colmar, France
La Petite Venise – Colmar, France
Timber Houses – Colmar, France
Timber Houses – Colmar, France
Rue des Marchands – Colmar, France
Rue des Marchands – Colmar, France
Croisement Rue des Marchands, Grand Rue – Colmar, France
It is essential to visit the Grand Rue, which is the main shopping street of the city. Here you can shop and dine and explore the many facets of Colmar.
Rue Vauban – Colmar, France
Grand Rue – Colmar, France
The Rue Vauban is also an important thoroughfare to visit and is itself decorated with many of the timber houses that adorn other parts of the city.
Old Timber House 1562 – Rue Vauban – Colmar, France
Rue Vauban – Colmar, France
Rue Vauban – Colmar, France
Rue Vauban – Colmar, France
Rue Vauban – Colmar, France
21 Rue Vauban – Colmar, France
Another must-see street is the Rue de Tetes. Here you can find the Maison des Tetes which was built in 1609 by Anton Burger, who later became the mayor of the city. The building owes its name to the many masks and grimacing faces that adorn its exterior. The figure on the top of the three-story oriel is of the twentieth century barrel-maker Auguste Bartholdi, at which time the building was used as a wine exchange.
Maison des Tetes – Rue des Tetes – Colmar, France
Rue des Tetes – Colmar, France
Maison des Tetes – Rue des Tetes – Colmar, France
Timber Houses – Rue des Tetes – Colmar, France
Place Martyrs de la Resistance – Rue des Tetes – Colmar, France
Place Martyrs de la Resistance – Rue des Tetes – Colmar, France
Place Martyrs de la Resistance – Rue des Tetes – Colmar, France
La Petite Venise
They call it the small Venice, but not really, it’s just one canal and it only goes about one block. It is a very pretty area and is worth a stop if you are in the area.
La Petite Venise – Colmar, France
La Petite Venise – Colmar, France
La Petite Venise – Colmar, France
Gabi and Ericka – La Petite Venise – Colmar, France
There is a gondala ride you can take, if you cannot enjoy the real thing.
La Petite Venise – Colmar, France
La Petite Venise – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin
The Collégiale Saint-Martin is a church that is run by a secular group of clergy, that are responsible for the church’s administration as well as several aspects of the attached college. There were at least two churches on the same site, dating back to the eleventh century. The current church grew out of a set of buildings that started the early thirteenth century.
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Main Entrance – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Clock – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Season Calendar – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Tympanum and Tower – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Tympanum – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Southern Face – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – At Night – Colmar, France
The interior is spacious and maintains a typical cathedral design, with an apse, altar and transept. Over the entrance is located a very large organ, which is accessed by a spiral staircase located in one of the corners.
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Nave – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Nave – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Nave – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Crossing and Transept – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Nave and Organ – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Crossing and Transept – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Chapel – Colmar, France
Collégiale Saint-Martin – Chapel – Colmar, France
Restaurants
Colmar has numerous restaurants and cafes catering to most tastes. However, we would recommend trying the alsatian food, an interesting mixture of french and german cuisine.
Le Fer Rouge
Le Fer Rouge is a true alsatian restaurant and serves good food. This was our first food stop in Colmar and we thoroughly enjoyed it.
Le Fer Rouge Restaurant – Entrance – Rue des Marchands – Colmar, France
I ordered the Schweinhaxen, or roasted pig shank, and it was delicious. It was marinated in a semi-sweet french sauce that was just outstanding. The Schwarzwälderkirchetorte, or Black Forest Cake, however was not that good. The creme was a bit stiff and the cherries lacked a rich taste, one expects from this dessert; a true dissappointment.
Le Fer Rouge Restaurant – Menu – Rue des Marchands – Colmar, France
Patti, Ericka and Vlad – Le Fer Rouge Restaurant – Rue des Marchands – Colmar, France
Le Fer Rouge Restaurant – Schweinshaxe with Honey, Thyme and Potatoes, Bread – Rue des Marchands – Colmar, France
Le Fer Rouge Restaurant – Stuffed Meat Beef with Mixed Greens – Rue des Marchands – Colmar, France
Le Fer Rouge Restaurant – Rue des Marchands – Colmar, France
Le Fer Rouge Restaurant – Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, Black Forest Cake – Rue des Marchands – Colmar, France
Brasserie Chez Hansi
The Brasserie Chez Hansi is another alsatian restaurant with a simple atmosphere.
Chez Hansi – Menu – Colmar, France
Chez Hansi – Inside – Colmar, France
The menu is easy to intepret and there appears to be something for everyone’s taste. I would commend however the Sauerkraut and Würste platter, it was excellent.
Chez Hansi – Flammkuchen (Pizza?) – Colmar, France
Chez Hansi – Chicken and Spätzle – Colmar, France
Chez Hansi – Sauerkraut Platter with Würst and Potatoes – Colmar, France
Le Bistrot des Copains
Last, and definitely least, is the Le Bistrot des Copains. It has a very average rating and you will find it is well deserved. The food is okay, nothing to write home about for sure. The service is adequate and they do try to help you with any requests. This restaurant would fall into the tourist trap category, if such a thing exists. It is well attended, but it perplexes me why.
It’s been some time since our last visit to Strasbourg, France. So when the opportunity arose to stop there, just for lunch, we jumped at the idea, since it is one of our favorite cities in France.
Strasbourg
The town has not changed much since we were last here, though that was during the summer. The weather however was great, a bit cool but sunny and pleasant. We stopped on our way to Colmar and enjoyed some of the city sights while we walked to our restaurant destination.
Place de la Grande Boucherie – Strasbourg, France
Place de la Grande Boucherie – Strasbourg, France
Rue des Bouchers – Strasbourg, France
Rue des Bouchers – Strasbourg, France
Restaurants
Le Gruber
Previously known as Zum Alten Strassburg, Le Gruber offers typical Alsatian cuisine, which is a mixture of french and german. The interior is comfortable and very nice.
Le Gruber Restaurant – Main Entrance – Strasbourg, France
Le Gruber Restaurant – Menu – Strasbourg, France
Le Gruber Restaurant – Menu – Strasbourg, France
Le Gruber Restaurant – Inside – Strasbourg, France
Le Gruber Restaurant – Inside – Strasbourg, France
Le Gruber Restaurant – Inside – Strasbourg, France
Le Gruber Restaurant – Patti and Ericka – Strasbourg, France
The food was very good and reasonably priced. I found the potato casserole especially enjoyable and very tasty, though with the Muenster cheese on it, a bit filling.
Le Gruber Restaurant – French Onion Soup – Strasbourg, France
Le Gruber Restaurant – French Onion Soup – Strasbourg, France
Le Gruber Restaurant – Fish special with noodles – Strasbourg, France
Le Gruber Restaurant – Potato Gratin – Strasbourg, France
Le Gruber Restaurant – Gabis Fried Potato Pancake with Bibaleskaes, Ham and Salad – Strasbourg, France
Le Gruber Restaurant – Potato Casserole and Salad – Strasbourg, France
Built around the ancient remains of an old RomanCastrum, Seligenstadt is one of Germany’s oldest towns. The Romans established a fortified encampment around the second century and maintained it for over a hundred and fifty years. Some time in the mid third century the germanic tribes repeatedly attacked the castrum, forcing the Romans to withdraw across the Rhine river, leaving a pile of rubble behind. Some time afterwards it was known as Obermühlheim and some of the earliest buildings in Seligenstadt are dated to the seventh century and are still standing.
Wendelinuskapelle – Seligenstadt, Germany
A stone’s throw from one of the public parking places is the Wendelinuskapelle. A small chapel honoring Saint Wendel, patron saint of farmers and shepards. Built in the late 1800s it stands on the place of a former Heiligenhäuschen. The Baroque doorway is some 160 years older than the chapel itself and was taken from the west portal of the Seligenstadt Basilica, when it was renovated in 1868. The inside is rather plain and in need of some repair.
Seligenstadt
The three main attractions in this town are the Benedictine Monastery, the Einhard-Basilika and the town’s Marktplatz, or marketplace. One can also find along the Große Maingasse a ferry crossing that crosses the Main river, which separates Hesse from Bavaria.
Mainfähre – Seligenstadt, Germany
Mainfähre – Seligenstadt, Germany
For the most part the town appears to have been saved from the ravages of war. Many of the original timber houses still stand and many have historical markers on them, giving the passer-by a brief history of the structure before them.
Timber Houses – Kleine Rathausgasse 10 – Seligenstadt, Germany
Timber Houses – Kleine Rathausgasse 10 – Seligenstadt, Germany
Timber Houses – Kleine Rathausgasse 5 – Seligenstadt, Germany
Timber Houses – Kleine Rathausgasse 5 – Seligenstadt, Germany
Benedictine Monastery
The monastery, which was established by the Benedictines in 815, houses a museum now and a beautifully maintained garden overlooking the Main river.
Former Benedictine Abbey – History – Seligenstadt, Germany
Former Benedictine Abbey – Entrance – Seligenstadt, Germany
Former Benedictine Abbey – Gardens – Seligenstadt, Germany
Former Benedictine Abbey – Gardens and Church – Seligenstadt, Germany
Einhard-Basilika
Though started in the early ninth century as the Saint Marcellinus and Petrus church, it is currently known as the basilica of Einhard, who was one of Charlemagne’s closest friends and advisors. The facade of the church is neo-roman, though there are several other styles of note, including early gothic.
Einhard-Basilika and former Benedictine Abbey – Entrance – Seligenstadt, Germany
Marktplatz
While we were visiting, a political infomation event was being held in the marketplace, which includes the Rathaus. The area is surrounded by quaint little shops, cafes and government buildings.
Marketplace – Seligenstadt, Germany
Marketplace – Seligenstadt, Germany
Marktplatz – Seligenstadt, Germany
Marktplatz – Seligenstadt, Germany
Restaurants
The weather was cold, cloudy and wet, typical for this time of year. So, when it was time it was essential to find a warm place with good food, so Italian with a pizza oven sounded about right.
Ristorante & Pizzeria 1744
A modern restaurant with a surprisingly large staff was able to accomodate us for lunch. I would expect that during busier times, reservations might be recommended.
The food was excellent. We tried the soups and main pasta dishes, which most people around us seem to favor; so we cannot really speak about the quality of the pizza. They also have traditional italian coffee and other after dinner amenities.
Ristorante & Pizzeria 1744 – Menu – Seligenstadt, Germany
The last time we were in Luzern was in 2020. We came back at the behest of other family members who wanted to visit it for a day and to also check out the wonderful hands-on transportation museum. We therefore made a Tagesausflug, or day trip, from Zürich to Luzern just to see the museum.
Getting There
From Zürich HBf, we took the regional train IR70, which only takes about forty minutes to Luzern. With the half fare card, it only cost us 13.50 Francs round-trip, per person. Luzern train station is right by the confluence of the lake and the river, so it drops you right in the heart of town.
Luzern, or Lucerne depending upon your preferred spelling, is a beautiful little city on the banks of the Vierwaldstättersee, or Lake Lucerne. It is bisected by the Reuss River, which in earlier times not only had several mills along it, it was also used to generate electricity for the city when one of the old mills was converted to a hydro-power station.
Reuss River – Luzerne, Switzerland
Pfistergasse – Luzerne, Switzerland
Hofkirche St. Leodegar – Luzerne, Switzerland
Allenwindenturm – Luzerne, Switzerland
Weggisgasse – Luzerne, Switzerland
Mühlenplatz – Luzerne, Switzerland
Fountain – Luzerne, Switzerland
Reusssteg-Brunnen – 1547 – Luzerne, Switzerland
The Bridges
The most interest sight in the city are its bridges. The Kapellbrücke, or Chapel Bridge, was originally a fortification, but is now a tourist attraction that almost burnt down in 1993. The paintings that adorn it, and it sister bridge the Spreuerbrücke, are still being restored after the fire and years of neglect.
Spreuerbrücke and Nadelwehr – Luzerne, Switzerland
Baslertor – Spreuerbrücke – Luzerne, Switzerland
Spreuerbrücke – Luzerne, Switzerland
Spreuerbrücke – Nadelwehr und Jesuitenkirche (hinten) – Luzerne, Switzerland
Museum Of Transportation
The Verkehrshaus der Schweiz, the Swiss Museum of Transport, is a hands-on museum for people of all ages, but mainly geared toward school children. Even for adults, there are some very interesting and historical items to see, let alone a good record of Switzerland’s contribution in the area of transportation.
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Main Entrance – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Main Entrance – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Airline DC3 – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Airline DC3 – Luzerne, Switzerland
The museum is divided into themes, from planes, to trains and automobiles, they even have a brief but interesting exhibit on bicycles and their history in Switzerland.
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Air Exhibits – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Air Exhibits – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Air Exhibits – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Maritime Exhibits – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Automobile Exhibits – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Bicycle Exhibits – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Automobile Exhibits – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Air Exhibits – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Railroad Exhibits – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Railroad Exhibits – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Railroad Exhibits – Luzerne, Switzerland
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz – Swiss Railroad Exhibits – Luzerne, Switzerland
Restaurants
We visited on Sunday, so our restaurant choices were rather limited. Sunday in most of Europe is the day of the week that families go out to eat and many normally have reservations for a late day lunch. Most of the establishments along the Rathausquai, Reusssteg and Bahnhofstrasse were busy, but off the beaten path we managed to find something.
Restaurant Fritschi
Tucked away and located Sternenplatz is the Restaurant Fritschi. It offers mostly swiss cuisine, but there are some simpler dishes, if you are not too hungry or prefer not to eat a heavy lunch.
Restaurant Fritschi – Chicken and Salad- Luzerne, Switzerland
Restaurant Fritschi – Schnitzel and Fries- Luzerne, Switzerland
Santa Lucia Ristorante
When we returned to Zürich, we ate at Santa Lucia Ristorante. This restaurant can get very busy, so it is probably a good idea to have reservations. They do however have a downstairs, which is where we were seated; there you can actually witness them making your pizza. They have many other specialities on the menu, so finding something delicious to try should not be a problem.
Santa Lucia Ristorante – Inside – Luzerne, Switzerland
With the weather breaking a bit and having a spare day with not much to do, we decided to take a trip to Grindelwald. This is another small ski and tourist town in the Grindelwald Valley on the other side of Männlichen, a sub alpine mountain that divides the two towns.
Getting There
The most direct route for us from Wengen was the Luftseilbahn up the Männlichen, a five or ten minute walk, and then the Gondola ride to Grindelwald. Since the route is part of the Oberlander Pass we were covered and did not have to purchase a round trip ticket at 66 Swiss Francs per person.
For Patti and I there wasn’t much to see that we hadn’t already, having been here in 2020. The main street hasn’t changed much, with the exception of a few new small municipal changes here and there.
Main Street – Grindelwald, Switzerland
Patti and Dana – Main Street – Grindelwald, Switzerland
Stählisboden – Grindelwald, Switzerland
Grindelwald Grund – Grindelwald, Switzerland
My main reason for even coming here again was the view of the mountains. From Grindelwald they are impressive, well at least on a clear day.
Wetterhorn – Grindelwald, Switzerland
Ostegg – Grindelwald, Switzerland
Restaurants
Alpenkräuter Bären Restaurant
After we had returned from our day trip we had reservations at the Alpenkräuter Bären Restaurant for dinner. This is a restaurant that prides itself on including and serving items that come from nature, especially natural herbs and spices from the alpine regions.
Alpenkräuter Bären Restaurant – Main Entrance – Wengen, Switzerland
It was definitely more laid back than other restaurants and had the familial feel to it. So if you are looking for real local cooking that is exceptional, this would be a great pick.
From our hotel the Quai de Clarens extends to the left and right. Taking a left while leaving, it turns into the Quai de Vernex within a short time and then it has many other monikers. For an early morning September stroll it is a very picturesque and beautiful walk along the lake, being well maintained by the authorities.
Quai Alfred Chatelanat – Walk To Castle Chillon – Montreaux, Switzerland
Quai Alfred Chatelanat – Walk To Castle Chillon – Montreaux, Switzerland
Quai Alfred Chatelanat – Walk To Castle Chillon – Montreaux, Switzerland
Quai Alfred Chatelanat – Walk To Castle Chillon – Montreaux, Switzerland
Quai Alfred Chatelanat – Walk To Castle Chillon – Montreaux, Switzerland
Quai Alfred Chatelanat – Walk To Castle Chillon – Montreaux, Switzerland
Quai Alfred Chatelanat – Walk To Castle Chillon – Montreaux, Switzerland
Quai Alfred Chatelanat – Walk To Castle Chillon – Montreaux, Switzerland
Quai Alfred Chatelanat – Walk To Castle Chillon – Montreaux, Switzerland
Eventually, as you pass the towns of Montreux and Veytaux, it will turn into the Quai Alfred Chatelanat. It is here you will see the Castle or Chateau de Chillon.
Quai Alfred Chatelanat – Castle Chillon – Montreaux, Switzerland
Quai Alfred Chatelanat – Castle Chillon – Montreaux, Switzerland
Getting There
To get to Castle Chillon there are many options. One preferrable one, since the walk along the Quai is fairly long, at least a couple of miles, is taking the boat. It docks at several places and has a rather spotty schedule, so check the authorities and the schedule at your location prior to depending upon it. It does however dock just below the castle and had arrived as we were on our tour of it.
Castle Chillon – Lake Boat Embarking – Montreaux, Switzerland
You can also take the bus. This is probably the easiest option and there are numerous bus stops along the way. The 201 from Clarens to Veytaux comes every half hour. We chose this option to return to our hotel. Tickets can be purchases on the SBB mobile application.
Chateau de Chillon
The Castle Chillon was originally built by the Savoy family and has had many different functions since it was first erected. It can be seen in the distance for some time before one notices the gun casement that guards it to the north.
Castle Chillon – Lake Leman – Montreaux, Switzerland
Castle Chillon – Lake Moat – Montreaux, Switzerland
Castle Chillon – Lake Moat – Montreaux, Switzerland
The castle has a number of rooms dedicated to particular themes. Each has a unique story to tell, as well as furnishing that were used in the past by the residents. The following were taken while touring the inside of the castle.
Castle Chillon – Interior Ward or Courtyard – Montreaux, Switzerland
Castle Chillon – Interior Ward or Courtyard – Montreaux, Switzerland
Castle Chillon – Constable’s Dining Hall – Montreaux, Switzerland
Castle Chillon – Constable’s Dining Hall – Montreaux, Switzerland
We recently spent two weeks in the Frankfurt area with family. While we were there, we had the good fortune to visit a few new restaurants and a couple of old favorites.
Restaurants In Frankfurt
Lokal Bahnhof
Though we did eat at the Lokal Bahnhof in Frankfurt Süd, Darmstädter Landstraße 14, it was not remarkable enough to take any photographs. A nice enough place to eat for lunch, but aside from a quick bite, nothing special.
Restaurants In Offenbach
Papi Original Italian Ristorante
Located in Offenbach, at Friedrichsring 39, is an excellent place for an evening meal called Papi Original Italian. A favorite of our’s when we are in the area, it had good service and very good food. The menu has very good southern Italian dishes and pizza, so something for everyone.
Papis Original Italian Restaurant – Main Entrance – Offenbach, Germany
Papis Original Italian Restaurant – Pizza – Offenbach, Germany
Papis Original Italian Restaurant – Spaghetti Bolognese – Offenbach, Germany
Papis Original Italian Restaurant – Pasta Bolognese – Offenbach, Germany
Restaurants In Dreieich
Since we were staying in Dreieich, most of the restaurants we visited were in this small, quaint little town.
China Restaurant Hong Kong
The China Restaurant Hong Kong is located on Hauptstraße 8 on the main avenue of town. It has laterns outside, so is easily visible from your car as you drive passed it. However, it is also an easy walk from some of the nearby parking locations.
China Restaurant Hong Kong – Gabi at Main Entrance – Dreieich, Germany
China Restaurant Hong Kong – Inside Decor – Dreieich, Germany
The food is good and they have a good variety on the menu, including Thai and some Vietnamese dishes.
China Restaurant Hong Kong – Mixed Salad, Spring Roll – Dreieich, Germany
China Restaurant Hong Kong – Fried Rice with Vegetables – Dreieich, Germany
China Restaurant Hong Kong – Mixed Salad – Dreieich, Germany
China Restaurant Hong Kong – Pork and Onion over Rice – Dreieich, Germany
Wirsthaus Leopolt
If you are actually looking for German food, look no further than Leopolt’s. They have weekly specials, as well as all the favorites and a variety of other dishes. It is also located in town at Hauptstraße 20.
Wirsthaus Leopolt – Patti and Erick – Dreieich, Germany
On Eisenbahnstraße 38 is the Italian restaurant La Rughetta. A smaller establishment than the others, it has a small, comfortable atmosphere with a family cooking feel. The menu has your typical items on it and the food is very good, though you may have to wait some time before it appears, so bring your patience.
Ristorante La Rughetta – Main Entrance – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante La Rughetta – Inside – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante La Rughetta – Molinari and Coffee Beans – Dreieich, Germany
La Faggio
A newer, more upscale place to eat, that has the appearance of one of the in-places to go is La Faggio, located closer to the train station at Buchschlager Allee 19. Though the eating area is rather spacious, we had the impression there were not enough servers to adequately attend to everyone in a timely manner; so be prepared to wait longer, even to order.
Ristorante La Faggio – Main Dining Area – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante La Faggio – Eggplant Parmigiano – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante La Faggio – Filet Mignon – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante La Faggio – Spaghetti and Tomatoes with Oil and Garlic – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante La Faggio – Bruschetta – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante La Faggio – Mixed Salad – Dreieich, Germany
Al Dente da Pino Ristorante
At the other end of town is Al Dente da Pino Ristorante at Dieselstraße 3. Again, an Italian restaurant with a friendly charm and comfortable atmosphere. The food is very good and the service prompt and friendly. Probably one of the better places in town to eat.
Ristorante Al Dente da Pino – Entrance – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante Al Dente da Pino – Artwork – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante Al Dente da Pino – Photographs – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante Al Dente da Pino – Photographs – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante Al Dente da Pino – Minestrone – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante Al Dente da Pino – Caprese Salad – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante Al Dente da Pino – Mixed Salad – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante Al Dente da Pino – Pasta Bolognese – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante Al Dente da Pino – Pork Piccata – Dreieich, Germany
Ristorante Al Dente da Pino – Braised Pork – Dreieich, Germany
Restaurants In Dreieichenhain
A short stone’s throw away from Dreieich is Dreieichenhain, a medieval little touristy like town with a Roman Wall and Clock Tower Gate. We have been here several times and try a different place to eat, each time we visit. On the day of our visit it was for a small brunch.
Old Roman Wall – Dreieichenhain, Germany
Cafe Cult
A small cafe kind of in the middle of town. Modern, friendly and quick, they have something for most everyone. Including very good coffee and other drinks. The desserts look amazing, though we did not try any. The bagels are bread type bagels, not traditional jewish bagels, but sufficient for bagel sandwiches, which were very tasty.
Cafe Cult – Egg with Avocado on a Bagel – Dreieichenhain, Germany
