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Day 3 : Elegant Baden Baden

Tucked into the verdant embrace of Germany's Black Forest, Baden-Baden continues to enchant with its legendary thermal heritage. While the town's ancient bathing traditions remain iconic, the contemporary heartbeat of wellness pulses strongest at the Caracalla Spa—a sleek, expansive modern facility that blends Roman-inspired elegance with cutting-edge relaxation. Paired with the exhilarating ascent to Merkur Mountain, these two experiences deliver a perfect harmony: soothing immersion in mineral-rich waters followed by sweeping, invigorating views from above.

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Merkur Mountain (668 meters), the town's cherished "house mountain", offers breathtaking elevation and fresh perspectives. The adventure begins with a ride on the Merkurbergbahn, one of Europe's steepest funicular railways, climbing dramatically through lush forest with inclines that thrill without effort. The short ascent reveals tantalizing glimpses of the valley unfolding below.


At the summit, panoramic vistas reward every sense: Baden-Baden nestles in the Oos Valley, cradled by rolling Black Forest ridges, while the Rhine Plain stretches toward distant horizons—France's Vosges mountains visible on clear days. A free elevator ascends the Merkur Tower to a 23-meter viewing platform for even grander 360-degree views.

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ABOUT US

For us, Patrick coming from Hong Kong with our 13-year-old twins (Bobby & Betsy, American Born Chinese roots), this social side is extra special. The predominantly American group gives our kids natural exposure to U.S. family vibes. It's gentle, fun cultural bridging: they make friends, pick up slang, laugh at the same silly things, and get a taste of Stateside living culture ahead of any future return. 

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And the people ?  That's where the real spark happens. Rick Steves attracts a crowd of like-minded travelers—curious, down-to-earth Americans (often families, couples, or multi-gen groups) who value thoughtful, authentic experiences over glitz. Small groups (usually 24–28 max) mean real conversations form fast: shared bus rides turn into storytelling sessions, group dinners become lively cross-table chats, and free time adventures create instant bonds. Tourmates just get it—they're there for the same reasons you are.


Whether it's the thoughtful pacing that keeps everyone happy, the hassle-free logistics that let us focus on joy instead of stress, or the welcoming crowd that turns strangers into friends, Rick Steves tours deliver the kind of family travel we crave: enriching, relaxing, and full of heart.

 

They also arranged a bigger room for the three of us, hence no need for single room supplement, and it allows the parents to stay with their young kids in the same room !!

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One more thing : all tips are included in the Tour price, and we don't have to carry too much cash !!!
 

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Whether you're planning your own multi-country Alpine adventure or simply love armchair travel through Europe's most scenic region, we invite you to explore, get inspired, and perhaps start dreaming of your next getaway among these three beautiful nations.


Join us as we relive the magic of the German-speaking Alps — one breathtaking vista at a time!

If you have any feedback or want any advice on travelling matters, drop a message in the mail box to my gmail account.

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