After seeing the only OV film in English we had not yet seen on Friday night (Batman Begins – remember, beggars can’t be choosers), Buddy and I set out bright and early for a daytrip to Cochem. Actually, bright and early was the plan, but we made a detour to Aachen (opposite direction of Cochem) for some carpet purchases... Yes, we were successful, but that is another story.
We noticed enroute to Cochem that Europeans apparently love to camp. Everywhere along the Autobahn we saw campers, camper trailers, RVs, and minivans with camping gear strapped to the tops of cars. It was not just the Germans either. I saw any number of license plates from France, Belgium, and the Netherlands with similar camping gear. It was as if the mother ship was calling them home…glad someone enjoys camping because it is not this gal!
We arrived in Cochem about 2:30 pm, with this view of the Reichsburg Castle greeting us. What a sight, indeed! Being a sucker for any castle, let alone a medieval one, we immediately began the trek to the top of the hill (yes, Terry, we walked it). Built originally in 1027, the castle was rebuilt according to its original plans after Louis XIV’s army destroyed it in 1689.
Upon arrival at the castle, we took a great tour of the grounds, fortress, and castle interior. These photos are from the castle balcony and magnificently show the lovely Mosel River and valley. With a good subject, even a mediocre photographer can look good!
The Mosel River area is known as “wine-country”, particularly for German Riesling wines. As a matter of fact, you can see grape vines all throughout the area, even along the sides of the mountain leading up to the castle itself.
After a leisurely stroll through the town, we settled upon a charming outdoor café for a “delish” dinner of spinach stuffed chicken breast, potato croquettes, and salad. Yum…
2 comments:
Wow. Castles on hills seem like they should only exist in fairy tales...
come and see for yourself....
Post a Comment