From Munich to the Black Forest

Arriving in Munich to rain and cool temperatures made coming "home" to Germany that much more real. The train ride through Austria was absolutely beautiful. We rode through valleys and alpine villages, alongside the rivers and high mountains. Saw an interesting castle somewhere past St. Viet that inspires me to return. And passing through Salzburg, I wished I'd had a stop over here. But I was eager to get back to Rhede and I was already taking a couple days to enjoy the Black Forest on the way. 

Hoping to catch some time with my resident cousin in Munich, Daniel, I made my way into Old Town early the next morning. I quickly walked past familiar sights and took a longer look at places I'd not had time to visit before. 

No word from my sleeping cousin, I made my way to the market for a quick bite and headed to the train station. I love German trains!

Made my way into Titisee-Neustadt in the Black Forest at 7:30 pm. This is where my parents honeymooned and a new destination for myself. Checked into my lovely English run guesthouse, Bergseeblick, and met even lovelier Austrailians who invited me to dinner.   Sheena, Hilton and Frank from Melbourne, were cycling from Burgundy, France to Salzburg, Austria. They were wonderful company as we ate at a suggested restaurant that was just slightly above acceptable. We made the most of our time and tried some Himbeergeist and Kirschwasser in lieu of dessert (they were out of most everything!). The drinks were more fun than tasty though!!

In the morning we met again for the amazing breakfast buffet laid out by our hosts, Allan and Kathy. I so missed my Deutsches Fruhstuck and made up for it with two helpings of everything. Frank even had a bottle of champagne to share in celebration of his birthday. The Aussies were heading out for a 70km day filled with beer and cake stops. I had a day of hiking to look forward to and we parted with hugs and farewell wishes. 

I took the bus to Feldberger Hof and hiked up about 4km to the highest mountain in the Black Forest (and in Germany outside the Alps) at 1493 meters or 4898 feet. Ei! I am so out of shape for these steep slopes!!

I decided to hike the 16.5 kilometers back to Titisee and was delighted at the forested path, gentle streams, and wanderings in the cow pastures! The weather was perfect, cool and partly cloudy. 

I made my way through some hills and valleys to reach Titisee (yes, it's pronounced just like you think). I followed the lake around for an additional 4km to the little village. 

Across the lake by the church is my guesthouse. 

The village is very busy as I made my way through souvenir shops and seaside restaurants. I decided to take a brief nap before searching out dinner and returned to the guesthouse. New visitors have arrived, but no one wanting dinner, so I headed back into the village for beer, brat, and bread. Simple and delicious! It's good to be in Germany!!