Germany's Romantic Road

Have you traveled the Romantic Road in Germany? Checkered with sunflowers, castles, vineyards and multi-colored autumn trees, the "Romantische Strasse" is "one of the most scenically beautiful" according to Frommers.

A trade route during the middle ages, Germany's Romantic Road still retains much of its medieval character. The road often winds through forgotten sections of countryside, connecting walled towns and picturesque villages. Travelers may enter a town through an arched gateway complete with guard towers. Inside, you will find gothic cathedrals, half-timbered fachwerk houses, beautiful historic hotels and often a medieval festival. Fairytale castles like Neuschwanstein and the Alps complete the charm.

Stay at least one or more nights in a historic hotel in Rothenburg o.d.T. -- the best preserved medieval town in Germany. The sparsely populated Rothenburg - Weikersheim region has an abundance of historic sights including a palace with the best Baroque Garden in Germany. Farther south at the foot of the Alps, you will find Ludwig II's fairytale Castle Neuschwanstein and the popular Peforming Arts Center Neuschwanstein. In addition to numerous castles, the Füssen - Reutte region offers spectacular mountain views and a host of outdoor activities like skiing, hiking and sailing as well as fine vacation hotels. Many hotels offer rooms with a view in addition to health, fitness and wellness programs. Don't hesitate to take a walk outside a village into the surrounding farm fields, forests, and mountains. It is easy to find a pleasant spot, where you hear nothing but the birds and the wind.