Our Alpine Countries Adventure
Welcome to our travel journal — a heartfelt documentation of an unforgettable 14-day journey through the heart of the Alpine region in the three German-speaking countries: Germany (Day 1-4, 7-9), Switzerland (Day 5, 6) and Austria (Day 10-14).
Day 9 : A journey to the fairy castle
at Neuschwanstein
Our journey through Bavaria reached its magical crescendo with a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, the legendary "fairy-tale castle" that crowns a rugged hilltop in the Bavarian Alps near Füssen and Hohenschwangau. Often called the most photographed building in Germany and the undeniable inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle, Neuschwanstein lived up to every enchanted expectation.
Commissioned by the eccentric King Ludwig II in the late 19th century, this romantic palace—never intended for defense but purely as a dreamlike retreat—rises with soaring towers, whimsical turrets, and intricate facades straight out of a storybook. Perched dramatically above the Pöllat Gorge, it blends medieval fantasy with modern comforts of its era, like running water, central heating, and even early telephone lines.
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The approach alone was breathtaking: a steady uphill walk (or optional horse-drawn carriage ride) through lush forests, with glimpses of the castle peeking through the trees. We timed our visit to cross the iconic Marienbrücke (Mary's Bridge), a narrow suspension bridge spanning the gorge for the classic panoramic view—turreted spires against snow-dusted peaks and emerald valleys. The interior guided tour (a must-book in advance) revealed only about 15 of the planned 200 rooms, but each one dazzled: the opulent Singers' Hall inspired by Wagner's operas, the Byzantine-style throne room with its starry vaulted ceiling and mosaic floor, and Ludwig's bedroom with its elaborate Gothic canopy bed carved like a forest of spires. The king's passion for Richard Wagner's legends echoed in wall paintings of Parsifal, Tannhäuser, and Lohengrin, turning the castle into a living homage to romantic ideals.
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After soaking in the fairy-tale splendor and capturing countless photos from every angle, we descended feeling utterly enchanted. It was the perfect capstone to our Bavarian adventures—history, nature, and pure wonder all in one unforgettable day.As the sun dipped lower, we bid farewell to Bavaria and crossed into Austria, hearts full and cameras overflowing.
Our welcoming dinner was a delightful celebration of Bavarian flavors: golden, crispy schnitzel—tender pork pounded thin, breaded to perfection, and fried until irresistibly crunchy—served with classic accompaniments like tangy potato salad, a wedge of lemon, and perhaps a side of red cabbage. Paired with a refreshing local beer, it was hearty, comforting, and the ideal send-off. The friendly staff made us feel right at home, turning a simple dinner into a warm, memorable transition.
We stayed at the stylish Gentle Hide hotel, a serene boutique retreat that felt like a peaceful oasis after days of exploration. Nestled discreetly yet conveniently central (perfect for our onward journey), the hotel offered modern design, cozy rooms, and a garden terrace that invited relaxation.
From Munich's Glockenspiel to the surreal beauty of Neuschwanstein and now the gentle charm of our Austrian arrival, this leg of the trip blended education, awe, and genuine hospitality. Bavaria didn't just show us its sights—it shared its soul. As we settled in at Gentle Hide, ready for whatever Austria holds next, one thing was clear: the fairy-tale magic lingered long after we left the castle behind.
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