Germany idyllic pit stops
Spring in the forest, lake Constance, first strawberries idyllic gardens and fields of apple trees.
Nörten-Hardenberg, Germany
By Caroline Feiffer
On a spring summer roadtrip to Italy (starting point Copenhagen) we made a few pit stops in germany. First stop was the wonderful Hardenberg Burghotel a beautiful half-timbered 18th century castle, now turned Relais & Chateau. The former castle is nestled in the lush green Lein Valley, surrounded by the hilly Harz foothills, just by the historic Rock Castle. A gorgeous roadtrip stop or simply getaway. Spring showed off from it’s best side, with warm rays of sun, beautiful birdsongs, a forest floor in full bloom and wild boars grunting and snorting from afar.
The decoration throughout the castle, is kept with much originality and treasures from the past, the restaurant and breakfast room is charming and authentic, while the reception doubles as a small library with a comfortable sofa area and fireplace, the accommodations are more modern and contemporary. The restaurant terrace overlooks the horse riding court, a wonderful spot for that first al fresco dining; the abundance of white asparagus we were served were perfect and simple. The cousine is very classic German.
Hardenberg Burghotel is a fine example of well kept authenticity as well as treasured local specialities, seasonal and organic produce. Highly recommend stopping here while passing through or vacationing in Germany.
Lindau, Bavaria Germany
Next stop on our way through Germany, was in the lovely and idyllic town of Lindau, in Bavaria Germany. Here we stayed at a lovely small hotel, Villa Villino, a former joinery now turned Relais & Chateau, set among blossoming rows of apple trees and hilly landscape just by the beautiful Lake Constance in South Germany. The Villa have a magical garden to sit and relax, a true tribute to Italian gardens with clusters of different seating areas, overlooking the property and apple fields with the meditation sound of trickling water from the fountain.
The rooms are equally tranquil and elegant with soft duvets and crisp sheets. Ours (The Lago room) had a small balcony overlooking the hilly landscape.
The restaurant serves up a delicate and curated breakfast at guests tables with a variety of breads, cold cuts, cheese, jams and fruits plus an ala carte selection to choose from — we appreciated this touch as it truly felt like everything was prepared from locally sourced fine ingredients and seasonal availability, whereas a breakfast buffet sometimes seems unnecessary, especially at smaller establishments.
In the evening, the restaurant continues its elegance and attention to detail as it serves up a wonderful dinner experience, one that secured a Michelin-star. The hotel is owned and operated by a family; mother, daughter and father, their dedication to the place is evident in every little detail, and they are always around in case you need anything, including some ideas to explore while in the area. Villa Villino is a fine example of a devoted family who’s passion for creating a place where elegant food and wine are at the heart in the midst of poetic nature.
Be sure to visit Lindau, Lake Constance and the farmers market in Wangen, where local and biodynamic produce were high in representation; visiting local farmers markets when traveling is such a wonderful way to view and feel the local atmosphere, connect with produce enthusiast and farmes — and not least, learn about local produce and region specialities. We of course got pretzels, apples (both region specialities) and the first strawberries of the season, which we enjoyed at the nearby Lake Constance.