Jean and Mike Jensen talked us into going on a part-day trip with them and Brooke, their daughter, just the morning after we arrived, on Saturday. We hadn't even unpacked our bags completely but we couldn't resist. They picked us up at 9am and we were off on my very first adventure in Europe. The destination was the quaint town of Ruedesheim, nestled on the picturesque banks of the Rhine River. It was only about 60 Km from Frankfurt.
I'm sure I've seen this on a postcard somewhere, haven't I? I don't think it could have been a more perfect day considering the weather and the scenery. Maybe I'm dreaming. Too beautiful for words.
This is the little two person gondola we took to the top of the lush green mountain. Below we saw rows and rows of concisely manicured vineyards of several colors of grapes. It seemed there wasn't a stick out of place anywhere in the landscape. Germans take great pride in their country's cleanliness and order.
A view of the Rhine from above. Wish you could see more clearly that there is a castle or two across the way just to add more charm to the amazing countryside.
This monument was built in 1874 in commemoration of the unification of Germany after their victory over France. It's massive and very very detailed in it's engravings and statues. It's quite a sight towering over the valley below.
Back down the mountain we strolled leisurely through the cobble stoned streets and admired the quaint shops, restaurants and bakeries. Here we pause outside of their famous Christmas store where they sell every imaginable style of authentic nut crackers in varying sizes.
More of the timeless, extraordinary European architecture that lures your heart and senses into thinking, "this must be home".
We don't even look too jet-lagged, do we? My pictures of the outside restaurant we ate lunch at unfortunately didn't turn out. We enjoyed Schnitzel, Bratwurst and Sauerkraut (of course) while a delightful little red-faced local played his accordion and sang to us.
As we walked back to the car we passed this huge midieval tower that in the day guarded the city.
And with this delightful start.........
our mission begins!
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ReplyDeleteLooks amazing!! Can't wait to come see you! Preston can't stop talking about our Skype session from Sunday and how you need to come live here again right away. We love you!
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