by Krista | Sep 4, 2011 | Bootstrap Monday
As you read this Monday morning, I’ll be hauling my bags from car to plane to bus to train to a different train to car until at last I find myself (hopefully!) in Montepulciano to start a week of celebrating for my brother’s wedding. I don’t know if I’ll have internet access, so if you don’t hear from me for a week, don’t be alarmed. I promise to take heaps of pictures and tell you all about it when I get the chance. 🙂
Until we meet again, I have to share these shots of beautiful Mummelsee, Germany, a stunning lake high in the Black Forest above Baden-Baden.
My friends took me hiking here after we fortified ourselves at the Mummelsee lodge with hearty slabs of Black Forest Cake heady with kirsche (cherry brandy), Apple Strudel with Vanilla Sauce and rich German Cheesecake.
It is one of my favorite walks in this area, especially on a sunny afternoon. We came here at Christmastime last year and walked on firmly packed snow around the iced over lake.
This time we walked on dry ground, strolling happily as the sun glistened over the water and glimmered down through the trees.
We were joined by crowds of holiday-makers, everyone cheerful and so happy to be outside in the fresh mountain air.
Legend has it that the lake is home to the King of Mummelsee and his water nymphs who remain quiet during the day but rise to the surface at night.
Some say the nymphs are actually nuns who lived in a monastery that was supposed to have stood where Mummelsee is now. The nuns were known for their kindness to local farm families and their children. Unfortunately tragedy struck when a nun fell in love with a farm boy and black water bubbled up from the earth to swallow the monastery and all who lived there.
Apparently we didn’t stay late enough because we failed to see either the King or his water nymphs.
It was a gorgeous walk though, and one I highly recommend to anyone visiting the Black Forest.
by Krista | Sep 2, 2011 | Fabulous Friday
The heavens opened and dumped on us as my friends and I arrived in Baden-Baden for a bit of exploring. We groaned and laughed, impressed at our impeccable timing.
We had arrived in summer attire, but one step outside into the cold rain and wind and we quickly hauled out sweaters, scarves and an umbrella to keep us dry and toasty in the elements.
Even in pouring rain Baden-Baden is beautiful with wonderful gardens and grand buildings that look more Parisian than German.
In spite of the inclement weather we were determined to enjoy our trip, so off we went, stopping to enjoy views of rushing streams, elegant homes, and the lovely theater.
Whenever the rain got too fierce, we’d duck into a nearby shop for a look around, or simply stand under an obliging overhang and people-watch for a spell. Soon enough the rain would pass and off we’d go again.
We made our way towards the renowned Casino Baden Baden, the sound of music drawing us closer. We wandered past intriguing shops with glossy cases full of glittering jewelry and enticing chocolates.
I caught my breath when I rounded the corner and saw this avenue looking so wonderfully autumn-ish. Aren’t those leaves and colors magnificent? If it hadn’t been raining I would’ve parked myself on one of those white chairs to soak it all in and write for hours.
Finally we reached the Casino and joined the crowds of people assembled under a forest of umbrellas in front of a large stage. Soon we were swaying and singing along with the rest of them as two German women belted out tunes from “Mama Mia!” Cheesy? Yes, but oh so fun. 🙂
When a Germany man got up and began belting out fabulous renditions of Louis Armstrong and Frank Sinatra we found seats under a nearby umbrella, ordered good dark German beers, and sat down for a rainy day concert.
It was fantastic. 🙂
After one more downpour the clouds opened and sunshine blazed down brilliantly.
We took the opportunity to peek into the opulent casino with its glossy brass and sweeping staircase, then made our over to the wonderful Corinthian pillars, mosaics, and grand hallway of the Trinkhalle.
How To Have Fun in the Rain in Baden-Baden
- Prepare for any kind of weather. Bring sweaters, scarves and umbrellas so your day isn’t spoiled by a downpour.
- Do activities that can be enjoyed indoors or under shelter of some kind: shopping, German beer and an outdoor concert under an umbrella, hot coffee in a cafe.
- Explore buildings or museums that provide shelter from the elements: wander the Trinkhalle or take a tour of the Casino.
I hope you have a beautiful weekend, dear ones!
by Krista | Sep 1, 2011 | Plucky Thursday
I adore Germany in the summer. Hot, sunny days punctuated by cool, rainy ones, over and over again. It’s like getting the best of every season, sometimes all in one day.
I love the cold rainy days because they give the best excuse to stay indoors and watch old movies and eat homemade cream cake, or play games whilst devouring far too much German chocolate.
But I also love the sunshiny days, for that’s when the colors of Germany come out to play.
Nearly every home is festooned with bright red and pink geraniums, spilling over from window boxes and along balconies.
This time of year the orchards are in full glory, the tree limbs laden with apples, pears and walnuts almost ready to be picked and turned into preserves, liqueurs, and all manner of scrumptious desserts like strudel with vanilla sauce. Mmm, I’m hungry just thinking about it!
Once upon a time these hills were covered in dense woods, hence the name Black Forest. But nowadays there are great open swathes of lush mountain meadow, almost lime green in the summer sun.
I love wandering through villages like Bühlertal, admiring their flourishing vegetable patches and tidy stacks of firewood ready for the long, cold winter ahead.
Looking out over the valley I’m delighted by the many red-tiled roofs looking so striking against the backdrop of vibrant green hills and bright blue sky.
Hoofing it up and down these steep hills can be exhausting, but I think the views are well worth it.
What is your favorite time of year where you live?
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