The first day of sunshine in over a week, and everyone is in a good mood - especially because the landscape is unique and varied. The guidebook had promised some steep uphills, and that's how the day starts, but it's not truly exhausting. Then the attraction for the day: A tunnel cave.
Thomas had asked us to bring our flashlights, and while the guidebook says that it will get light just when one is ready to give up, we're not taking any chances. Headlamps in place, we're on our way in.
Regrettably, the batteries that James picked from the bag in the freezer where batteries are stored are less than fresh, and my flashlight is quite dim. But with 10 other lights shining bright, I have no problem finding my way. We're almost sorry that we're through so quickly.
We soon reach castle Giechburg, but skip the tour because it's expensive and there's a lot of castles in these areas. The landscape is wild and amazing, and we love the green trees. In places it goes steeply down for a bit.
Then up and down, through the rock formations.
Lots of moss on the rocks.
And a great chance for a slug photo.
In Goessweinstein we sit outside (!) and enjoy a snack. James has a Windbeutel (cream puff) from their special Windbeutel menu. It's shaped like a swan and huge, but he's hungry -- so are we all.
We continue on to our Gasthof, and I'm almost sorry that we're moving so fast because it's so beautiful. But then we arrive in Pottenstein, and enjoy the views of the half timbered houses against the blue sky, and the prospect of more food.
