Saturday, July 10 - Neuschwanstein

We were picked up at our hotel by the driver, Helmut. We soon learned that Helmut was married to an American (from New Orleans) and he spoke excellent english. We got SO much more personalized information about life in Germany/Bavaria. I had LOTS questions and even learned a few curse words in german! lol We came and went at our own pace and no time was wasted. Additionally, we got see what WE wanted all in one day. It was very comfortable and much more enjoyable. Several years ago, I have read a very interesting book about King Ludwig II, who started builing this castle shortly before his death. It remains unfinished to this day. I suggest reading a book about him whether you do or do not come to visit. He was a bizzare, yet interesting character. On this day, the book came to life for me and I learned even more about his pecular ways. Although he used a lot of money unnecessarially, and at that time deemed wasteful and useless, he left the state/region of Bavaria a legacy for the state and has become a HUGE tourist destination and money maker for the state. Additionally, at that time, he kept many people employed and made a few famous. Only one example is Wagner. To help imagine this time frame, he regiened during our civil war.

First, we headed to Neuschwanstein......what I like to call “The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” castle. It was quite the adventure to get up that steep hill (it felt like more of a mountain)! Part of the way we took a horse drawn carriage but the rest we had to climb/walk. We took a guided tour. Unfortunately our tour guide wasn't very good. He was young and inexperienced. Don't get me wrong, it still was a good tour. I have always wanted to see this castle ever since I saw the movie and that was a long LONG time ago. So, for me, it was a dream come true (as was the entire trip).
This was the view from the bottom just before we climbed aboard the horse-drawn carriage.


This photograph is of King Ludwig's parent's castle which sets at the foot of Neuschwinstein. This castle is not owned by the state but the living relatives from the royal family. You can tour it, which we did not. We were told it wasn't very impressive, however, there were many interesting family artifacts on display.


My view from the front


This photograph was taken from just inside the front gate.


These views were taken FROM the castle. Breathtaking!


This is Helmut and me with Neuschwanstein in the far distance.


Me and Mutter!


***It's an interesting feeling when you have completed something from your bucket list***

Neuschwanstein Video 1

Neuschwanstein Video 2

Neuschwanstein Video 3