While in Fussen, Germany, we visited Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles, which were the homes of Mad King Ludwig. The history is fascinating. It’s well worth the side trip to see these castles, which were built in the 1870s. Personally, I liked Hohenschwangau better. You learn more about Ludwig’s family and it’s more leisurely and interesting. They kind of rush you through Neuschwanstein.
Here’s a tip for visiting the castles: You will have to take a 40-minute walk up a mountain to get to Neuschwanstein Castle. It’s quite a hike, although my 5-year-old was able to do it. There are horse-drawn carriages that go up the hill, which may be a better option, especially if you have trouble walking. Either way, you have to factor going up the hill and back down into your visiting time, so make sure you think about that when planning your trip.
(Also, reserve tickets online or get there first thing in the morning. The tours sell out fast.)
Hey, it’s Neuschwanstein on a hill!
And there’s Hohenschwangau. Let’s go there first.
Hohenschwangau is fantastic.
Look at the views!
And this lion statue.
Too bad they wouldn’t let us take pictures inside. Oh well time for a break.
Let’s eat a schneeball, a snowball, which is really a donut ball.
Aw, those horses are kissing.
Now for a walk up the Alps.
That was hard, but here we are. Up close, Neuschwanstein is less fairytale, more scary fortress.
Too bad we couldn’t take pictures inside. Oh well.
Here’s another view with Hohenschwangau in the distance.
And the countryside. Time to hurry down the mountain so we can catch our bus. Thanks, castles.
Next up, Salzburg.