We were excited about our time in Munich. The stories of Oktoberfest, lederhosen and King Ludwig sounded awesome and we wanted to get stuck into it.
We hit the ground running with dinner and beer at Hofbrauhaus. When it’s not actually Oktoberfest, this is just about as close as it gets. Beer runs freely, live folk music fills the airwaves, the waitresses all wear dirndls and it’s a total party atmosphere. I had to have a go at a mass (1.0L), and Ali did very well for herself with a 500ml (as small as they come) beer. Good beer with good German food made for a great start to our time in the capital of Bavaria.
The following morning we were out exploring the city and surrounding parks on a guided bike tour. We took in some history of the city, the english garden and did quite a few kms on the bike. Munich’s surfing population makes the most of the man made break on the local river. Each takes their turn to drop in and ride the wave whilst the spectators check it out. Also, on our tour we uncovered Munich’s passion for nude sunbathing. Provided you’re over 50 and male, it’s the norm to lie out in the buff by the riverbank and work on your tan.
A little retail therapy in the afternoon and then it was off on an obligatory Munich pub crawl. We met some Americans, French-Candanians, Germans and a few other Aussies and we hit the town. Beer gardens, beer halls and bars all around town. Add to that some complimentary Jaeger shots and the night was well and truly on the way. We had a blast and definitely got first hand experience for Munich’s nightlife.
Sunday was more of a history lesson, with a coach tour out to the Bavarian countryside to see two of King Ludwig’s castles – Neuschwanstein & Linderhof. They were both set in amazing landscapes and had incredibly luxurious interiors. Definitely a nice change of pace and a great way to spend the day.
Next, we head back to Italy for our last 6 nights. 3 nights in Venice, then 3 nights just outside of Rome to kick back and recharge the batteries.
D&A
One Comment
Lovely shots in the countryside, it’s hard to take a bad photo in that landscape!
I was in the Hofbrauhaus in April, great place and great food (I had exactly what you did)