Meersburg

Meersburg, with a view of Switzerland across the lake

About an hour and a half south of where we live is Lake Constance, called the Bodensee in German.  Over the last year that we have been in Germany, many people have recommended that we visit this lake area and the many quaint towns which surround it. 

Walking along the Promenade with Grandma Theresa

What is interesting about this lake is that it is bordered by three countries: Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.  This area is very popular for tourism for both Germans and International travelers, and draws many cyclers who can easily cycle from town to town all the way around the lake.  Germany has an amazing network of well maintained bike paths that make it safe and easy to travel just about anywhere by bike. 

 

Half-timbered house with waterwheel

The day we visited Meersburg was soon after Dan's mother, Theresa, arrived from Wisconsin for a month long visit.  It was a church holiday (sorry, I forget which one), and most of the shops were closed, but the restaurants and attractions were open.

 

 

The cobbled streets in the older section of town were decorated with flower petals and greenery in honor of the holiday, and it was very nice to wander the streets and see the flowers. 

 



We visited Burg Meersburg, also known as the 'old castle', compared to the newer castle that is also in town. Visiting castles is great with children, because you can really play it up to their imagination.  There was no guided tour, but we purchased a brochure in English, and were able to explore the castle at our own pace (as compared to Neuschwanstein Castle where you are herded through the castle as quickly as possible).

 

We never get tired of visiting these quaint towns, and watching the boats on the lake made for a very relaxing afternoon, despite the crowds.  I look forward to a return trip to the Bodensee to explore some other towns and see what else the area has to offer. 

Our family: Dan, Rachel (me), Ryan (7), and Meredith (4)