Our First Week

Haarlem, Netherlands

Sunset in Haarlem provided the perfect end to our first evening stroll.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

We were charmed by the canals and incredible architecture. Be it ancient or modern, Amsterdam boasted some of the most interesting buildings.

Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

Masterpieces abounded in this museum. Rembrandt, Vermeer, Van Gogh, and other Dutch masters immersed us in color, culture, and imagination.

Arnhem's Open Air Museum

Our visit here allowed us to visit period-built homes throughout Dutch history, as wells as view the most iconic Dutch symbol - the windmill.

Bacharach, Germany

The Rhine Valley was rife with castle and chapel ruins dotting the glorious countryside. Werner Chapel is a gorgeous example of a Gothic chapel, best seen from the medieval tower on the hillside.

Bacharach Architecture

Half-timbered buildings accented in a variety of joyful colors are found in town. Flowers and gardens cultivated throughout add to the cozy beauty that is Bacharach.

Bacharach medieval fortifications

Climbing the hillside of the town to the medieval fortifications provided us amazing views of the valley. 

Rhine river boat cruise

We traveled to St. Goar on our trip and relaxed on our return to Bacharach via a Rhine river cruise. This is the town of Oberwesel featuring Schonburgh Castle and The Church of our Lady.

The Gardens of Bacharach

It was truly a pleasure to stroll the town and admire the flowers. Such an inviting place to stay. 

Burg Stahleck in Bacharach

While it is a hostel today, this was once a castle.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Our view from our room at Hotel Gerberhaus was definitely something to write home about with its stunning view of the medieval wall and the town.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

The name of this town means "Red fortress above the Tauber" which is the name of the river below the town. 

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

No visit to Rothenburg is complete without visiting the Christmas markets. Even if you go in October, like we did, the Christmas spirit is alive and well. 

Riemenschneider's altar

Tilman Riemenschneider carved this stunning alter between 1501-1505. It's also called the Altar of the Holy Blood and is located in the Church of St James. A true must-see marvel.

St. Jakobs-Kirche

St. Jakobs-Kirche is translated Church of St James and is located in the old town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. It is where the Reimenschneider alter is located. 

Half-timbered architecture

More beautiful examples of the colorful and unique architecture of Germany. By this apothecary is a delicious Mexican food Restaurant. A lovey Hispanic woman married a German man and opened an eatery here.  

Salzburg, Austria

Old Town Salzburg is an inviting town to stroll in. St. Peter's Abby, with its belltower, and Hohensalzburg Fortress on the hill offer stunning views. 

Salsburg, Austria 

Walking along Salzburg River we see Müllner Kirche. What was once an Agustine monastery, the  Augustiner Bräu building connected to the church is the biggest beer hall in Austria. "Prost!"