The excitement in the air was palpable as we loaded our luggage into the car. With Dover as our first stop, we hoped to catch some rest at the Premier Inn before embarking on our European adventure.
While planning the trip, we discovered that we needed stickers for France and Germany and the emissions zones stretch out side of cities so worth getting them even if not going into the town centres. Look up Crit’Air clean air stickers and German emissions stickers or ‘Umweltplakette’ for more information on how to order them, we ordered them through the post before heading away.
In a spontaneous turn of events, we chose to hop on an earlier ferry. This meant an ungodly wake-up time, but it allowed us to maximise our first day in France. By the time we pulled up to the ferry terminal, it was just striking 6 am, and the first rays of dawn cast a golden hue over the waters.
The drive was long, but the scenic French countryside made every moment worth it. By evening, we found ourselves in the enchanting city of Strasbourg. Exhausted but eager, we settled in for the night, looking forward to the adventures the next day held.
We indulged in a hearty breakfast. Fueled and ready, our first order of business was a trip to the local supermarket to stock up on some French delicacies, prepping us for a picnic later in the day.
In the afternoon, we set out for Château Haut-Andlau, with a beautiful walk through the woodland to the ruin of the historic castle.
Next we headed over to close to Colmar and our three-night sojourn at a quaint vineyard apartment.
The moment we arrived, we were entranced by the spectacular landscape. The apartment, nestled amidst endless rows of grapevines, offered a balcony view that was sheer poetry. Sunlit leaves swaying gently, beckoning us to slow down and take in the intoxicating beauty.
The listing for Gite de Charme au Milieu des Vignes had hinted at the allure, but the reality was far more captivating. The pristine condition of the apartment paired with its comprehensive amenities made it an ideal self-catering spot. We enjoyed many a meal, our table set against the backdrop of the vineyards on the balcony.
We were touched by our host’s gracious hospitality. Their insights led us on an enlightening walk to a medieval village of Riquewihr nearby.
On one invigorating morning, I jogged through the vineyard each footfall seemed to echo with the pulse of the land, and the crisp morning air felt like a refreshing sip of nature.
Colmar beckoned one evening for dinner with an old university friend. If you get chance to visit then my suggested highlight is La Petite Venise. The charming canal-fronted buildings looked as though they’d sprung straight from a storybook.
On our last day, a hike took us atop a ridge, where we marvelled at sweeping valley views, dotted by historical WWII bunkers. A blend of natural beauty and poignant history.
Our evenings often culminated on the balcony. With memories etched in tranquillity.
For anyone yearning for a sublime escape, this vineyard apartment comes highly recommended. We left with a promise in our hearts – to return to this serene sanctuary.
However, adventures awaited as we headed to Germany and the Black Forest. During a simple morning errand for bread at a nearby bakery, the power in the apartment unexpectedly cut out. Suddenly, we were devoid of electricity and water, the latter relying on an electric pump. But, as they say, when life gives you lemons, buy still water! Our pit stop at the Cora supermarket ensured we were hydrated for the journey.
Our German escapade began in Triberg. A stop on the way into the town took us to the world’s largest cuckoo clock, a marvel of craftsmanship. Later, a quick wander through the town offered a delightful introduction to the region. For our stay at an Alm in the hills above Triberg in the Black Forest.
Our first night in our Alm abode was greeted by a tempestuous storm. A sudden gust of wind swung our kitchen patio door open and we watched the sky light up from the comfort of our apartment.
Right from our front door, the wonders of the Black Forest invited exploration. Our footsteps led us to the magnificent Triberg waterfall, where the cascade’s roar resonated with nature’s power. Adjacently, the Black Forest Museum enriched our understanding of the region. With our tourist card in tow, we enjoyed free entry, even making a detour to the unique rock formations at Der Fel.
Another day, our wanderlust guided us to Schwenninger Hütte. Here, a trail marked for those with ‘alpine experience’ piqued our curiosity. We embarked on it, and while it proved less challenging than expected, its beauty was unquestionably enchanting. Midway, Landgasthof Pension Ölmühle Hirzwald offered a delightful reprieve, with crispy chips and refreshing drinks.
Exploring the local area a little further afield was supported with the ‘Hoch Schwarzwald Wandern’ guide discovered in the property. Guided by its insights, we ventured south on the 3 Gorges walk and found serenity in Forest Bathing at Heilklima-Steig
My daughter astutely observed our newfound daily rhythm: A morning with breakfast, hiking, a restorative yoga session, and finally, a hearty dinner. The Black Forest, with its lush landscapes and calming aura, truly gifted us an immersion into its heart. And, as if to crown our experience, we took a rejuvenating plunge at Naturfreibad Klosterweiher swimming area.
As we meandered northward towards home, the Black Forest’s allure continued to surprise and enchant. Our journey directed us to the quaint town of Hornberg. Here, we found ourselves indulging in a scrumptious lunch amidst the old town’s ambient charm. Post-feast, the enigmatic path leading to Hornberg Castle beckoned.
Perched above the Neckar valley, Hornberg Castle, albeit partially ruined, stands testament to its illustrious past. Not just a bastion of historic architecture, the castle was once the residence of Götz von Berlichingen in the 16th century. Scaling the trail, we found ourselves enveloped in a breathtaking panorama of the valley beneath.
Another stop we made was Mummelsee’s serene waters, dense forestry, and whispers of myths from the deep. Located over 1,000 meters above sea level, this karst lake’s origin stems from a collapsed underground cave.
Our first instinct was to embark on the tranquil lakeside walk, a brief yet mesmerising trail. The landscape seemed plucked straight out of folklore – with tales of resident mermaids.
Our next stop brought us to Lille. Here, we took a refreshing dive into the hotel pool and strolled to a nearby supermarket for essentials.
With our ferry departure looming, we hatched a plan: beat the suggested 120-minute early arrival time at the ferry terminal with an aim to catch the 8 am sailing. A 5:30 am start saw us on the ferry by 7:55 am, enjoying a sumptuous breakfast – made sweeter by the kids dining free with a paying adult.
