Just back from a very enjoyable long weekend in Bavaria based in the town of Fussen, less than two hours by train from Munich. The snow was late in coming this year but there was a significant fall just in time for our arrival and more during our stay, so there was plenty for us enjoy, All twelve of us stayed in a very modern, well appointed guesthouse only a few minutes walk from the station.
Food is always important on these trips and we enjoyed a range of Bavarian delicacies such as pork dripping, knuckle of pig, various types of sausage (some more appetising than others) and fried potatoes topped with a fried egg. Desserts were to die for, especially the germknodel (a huge yeast dumpling filled with plum jam and served with vanilla sauce – see photo). This was ordered by Stuart and then Danny in the restaurant at the top of the Tegelberg cable car and shared with most of the group. It more than made up for the bitter cold outside and complete lack of view. All this was washed down with plenty of gluhwein and beer of course.
In between meals we did manage to do some walking in the snow – we covered around 17 miles in total over the weekend. If this doesn’t sound too impressive remember that a mile walking in several inches of snow is much harder than a standard mile. Icy conditions necessitated use of grips on our boots – these come in various designs, some easier to put on than others. See photos for examples of our trials and tribulations.
Finally I must mention the wonderful fairytale castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenswangau which we visited on Saturday.
Thanks to Dominique for organising and everyone who took part for a great weekend.
Gillian
More photos to come – watch this space!