Walking & Biking through a Bavarian Fairy Tale
August 8, 2013
Well, if you've had enough of my fairy tale speak by now I apologize, but there is some adventure ahead, too! Despite my bum knee, which is still giving me a bit of trouble but it's because I just can't stay off it, yesterday I decided to rent a bike to ride to Neuschwanstein instead of taking the bus and being herded on and off like cattle. After getting used to my flimsy road bike (I have a sturdy mountain bike at home) and rejoicing over the fact that it had only cost me ten euro for a full 24 hours, I was off to the castle. I really had no idea where I was going. I had a cartoon-like map in my back pocket and had gotten some really general directions from a few people, but just figured I would follow the signs or just figure it out. Worst case scenario would be that I see more of Bavaria, right? Between the relatively undetailed hostel map and the signs I managed to find my way to the castle. The ride there was so freeing. I felt so at home. Biking in Germany is so easy. There are bike paths off of many main roads and most of these are paved and well marked. As my Munich tour guide would have said, "Welcome to Bavaria!" This is the Bavarian way. Organization! And bikes :). Yesterday's brief bike ride through the Bavarian countryside definitely solidified my next adventure abroad (okay, well, one of my next adventures abroad - I plan very far ahead): biking! My new goal is to bike through Bavaria and Austria. The bike paths are amazingly organized, in great condition, well marked, and I can't think of a better way to see the countryside. Hiking didn't work out this year, but maybe a bike trip is more up my alley.
Anyway, onto the next fairy tale part: Fussen! Fussen is the quaint-as-quaint-can-be town near the Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles in Bavaria. This town is idyllic. I felt as though the Brothers Grimm had arrived here to create a town straight from their tales. A little touristy, yes, but it is the quintessential Bavarian mountain town. Everything is as old as dirt (and keep in mind, I am an archaeologist - I love dirt!) and filled with charm. Even the hostel I'm staying at is beautiful! And even better, it's cheap! (Old Kings hostel - look for the little turtle symbol.) I could easily spend a week here, relaxing one day and hiking or biking like a crazy person the next, but alas I have made plans to go elsewhere this evening... Though I'm sure Garmisch-Partenkirchen will be just as lovely. If you're ever in need of an idyllic location with plenty of opportunity for adventure with a touch of touristy fun, Fussen is the place. Rent a bed at Old Kings, rent a bike from the train station, and set off into the sunset for a day of adventure on the Bavarian bike paths. Wave to the cows, grab a beer, and enjoy a delicious pastry for me! This is the sweet life: Bavarian life.
