Life's a Beach

I never fully understood why my Mom loved the beach so much. Sure it is beautiful but I never fully got it till we went to the lake.

Mom, I get it now. As a mostly adulting adult, I fully understand it. It's like being on vacation without really actually being on vacation. I have seen the light.

To round out the most vacation like weekend ever we set out for the beach. I had spent several days prior to the weekend, researching beaches and trying to find the best one for us. With Lake Constance not too far from us an Germany occupying 160 miles of it's coast, it was a pretty long search.

Strandbad, proved to be the best choice for us. Plenty of space, an area to take kayaks and paddle boards out, - not that that applied to us this trip - and a beach bar on sight. That sold me right there.

This was the easiest drive we have ever taken. We got on the autobahn, drove for an hour, exited, and drove till we saw the Strandbad sign. Simple right?

Oh and the most amazing thing about this location? Across the street from the parking area was tons of fruit stands. Hog heaven for sure. 

We are now just waiting for another off day with great weather - it was 90 degrees and cool refreshing lake water - to make our next trip. Still a month and a half of summer to enjoy.

So relaxing and the perfect end to our weekend. Festivals, adventure, and the beach. All the makings of a great vacation and we got to do it all without going too far from home.

Get the rest of our weekend recap:

Stuttgart

Mörsdorf

Heidelberg

Summertime in Heidelberg

After our time in Mörsdorf, we made our way down to Heidelberg to experience one of their three major firework shows this summer. 

Every year this little town, basks it's castle ruins in flame like lighting to commemorate the sacking of the town by Louis XIV. After which the fireworks begin recalling just over 400 years ago when Friedrich V brought his lovely new bride from England back to Germany. 

Can you imagine? Your anniversary is still celebrated 400 years later... So romantic.

Heidelberg will always have a special place in my heart. It was the first place we ever went once I arrived here in Germany. I was so excited to come back and get to see it again in the summertime and experience such a historic event for them.

How can you not fall in love with that view?

These people had the best spot for firework viewing no doubt.

Of course another stop at the lovely Kornmarkt. This was my favorite place on our first visit. Not as many people as the main square and adorable architecture.

I take it back THEY have the best spot to watch the fireworks.

Our first castle tour... Don't you just love this place?

Before the show we decided to stop for dinner. Off the main area is this wonderful Irish pub. The food was amazing. Easily one of the best burgers I have had recently. I really wanted the full breakfast, but hey maybe next time.

Blurry, but you can get an idea of the deliciousness and size.

Most of the photos didn't come out well, but I though this one had something special about it so I had to share it.

We had a fantastic time exploring two awesome sights within Germany with new friends.

Illumination, we will see you again next summer.

If you missed the first half of our Saturday, you find it HERE.

For more on Heidelberg, you can go HERE.

Flying High in Mörsdorf

If you follow along on Instagram, you may have seen what we were up to this weekend. Now it is time for some summer weekend recap.

On my super long list of summer fun, I added a little bit of heart pounding fun. In the quiet town of Mörsdorf, Germany there is an adventure lover's dream hiding away. Late last year this sleepy town, opened up Geierlay Bridge; the longest suspension bridge in all of Germany. At 330 feet high, the views off this bridge cannot be beat.

By no means am I fearless, my fear of heights is directly proportionate to how safe I view the activity.

Fly and roller coasters?

No problem.

This bridge?

Slight problem.

The drive to find this tiny little section of Germany is an adventure all its own, filled with fantastic country side. When I saw this place is in the middle of no where, I really mean it. No cell service, car park is almost 2 km back, along with all the signs of civilization - like toilets. All that in mind though, it was so amazing to totally unplug from my phone - that baby is almost always attached to my hand.

Shaking Standing on the bridge, taking it all in was so relaxing. Even if you don't go on the bridge - plenty of benches over looking the bridge and the views - it's worth the trek to the Shire, just to feel that peace settle over you.

Now, are you ready for those awesome views I was talking about?

 Such a precious church on the street corner. It had maybe six pews inside.

This was someone's pool!!! The had the most beautiful home and gardens. Who has stained glass windows on their house!? I wanted to knock on their door so I could see the inside. 

Can I move in?

Finally back in the woods. 

The closest I got to the edge the whole time.

Don't the boys look so excited to have their picture taken?

A tiny currywurst stand tucked away on the walk back. The best was still in Salzburg, Austria but still yummy.

After our adventuring and time in nature we headed of the wonderful town of Heidelberg. This was the first place James and I ever went in Germany and I was so excited to see this adorable town again. This time we were here for one of the three firework shows they do every summer. Come back Saturday to read all about our second time in Heidelberg and their amazing show.

Till next time,

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Last weekend we made the short journey to the storybook town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. That's a mouth full isn't it? This little Bavarian gem embodies charm and romance. I do say this frequently but this really is our favorite town in all of Germany.

A compact town, encased within it's original medieval walls made it perfect for an afternoon stroll. This little town is utterly charming. The buildings had a life of their own, with their vibrant colors and preserved medieval charm. Rothenburg is a perfect afternoon break from daily life. Just wander the streets, take in the history and beautiful vistas, and of course peruse the little shops filled with so much character.

Stunning isn't it? Looks like it should be in a period movie.

This is someone's home!!! Can I move in?

One of the adorable store fronts.

One of the many unique stores in the town.

Found it!!! I always see this street corner on Pinterest. Famous streets of Germany.

Aren't they cute!? I think they need to come home with me.

 

Because our travels and excursions would not be complete without stuffing ourselves full of food.

We FINALLY had one of these made. I am totally in love with it. The wonderful owner does all the wood carving in the back and at the front desk she does all the hand painting and burning.

Rothenburg is a great town for shopping. So many unique stores, filled with hand made treasures. We got a serious head start on Christmas shopping because of all the items we couldn't pass on for family back home.

Adorable, charming, picturesque, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, we will be back many times over for you.