Visiting the Franconian Wine Region you can enjoy good (red) wine not only while eating out in a restaurant or during one of the many wine festivals or cultural events, but you can also enjoy the regional wine while going on a hike. The so called Fränkischer Rotwein Wanderweg (Franconian Red Wine Hiking Trail) is a hiking trail of 79km that runs from wine village to wine village, partially along the river Main, partially through hills, but always through and along vineyards. Along the way you can find (weather permits) the wine estates opening up their wine bars right next to their vineyards, allowing for a short break while enjoying a good glass of wine, and even having the possibility to talk to the wine growers themselves. Most of them are still family owned and run businesses. A special highlight is the spring season, when the almond trees are in full blossom.
Aschaffenburg not only has a castle well worth visiting, but also has a very beautiful old part of town that allows for strolling around through the cobble streets, sitting down for a coffee or simply appreciating the work that has been put into restoring the beauty of the old architecture which suffered extensive destruction during WWII.
You will find the impressive St. Peter and Alexander Abbey Basilica, built in the 10th century. Right next to it the restored Löwenapotheke (pharmacy) which dates back to the 16th century and is one of the many half-timbered houses that are scattered throughout the old town.
One of the “not to miss out places” while visiting Aschaffenburg is the Johannisburg Castle and the surrounding garden with the Pompeiianum. The castle was erected during the 17th century from Bundsandstein and used as the second residence of the Archbishop of Mainz before it was passed on to the Kingdom of Bavaria during which it served as the summer residence of the king – he was also the one calling Aschaffenburg the “Bavarian Nice”. During World War II the castle was nearly completely destroyed, but has been restored since. Today, the castle hosts a variety of museums including the world’s largest collection of cork architectural models.
The castle is surrounded by a garden which connects into a mediterranean garden with fig and almond trees and it’s own vineyard, in which the Pompeiianum is situated. This replica of a Roman villa (the house of Castor and Pollux) was built in the 19th century. Also this building was destroyed during World War II and restored later on. Today, it hosts several different Roman works of art.
When traveling, don’t forget to visit a local market. Even in my hometown of Aschaffenburg I tend to explore the farmers market whenver I am visiting. Every Wednesday and Saturday local, regional and international products are being offered: from flowers, plants for your own backyard, fruits and vegetables, bakery products, homemade pasta, fish, cheeses, meats, moonshine (aka Schnaps), spices…
The history of the market dates back all the way to the year 1144 and you’ll find even more history when visiting since the market is located right in front of the castle Johannisburg. As clearly visible in the photos, the local government requires for the time being everyone to wear a face mask due to Corona pandemic.
Vienna, the capital and biggest city of Austria, has repetitively been named as most liveable city in the world with the highest quality of life. Any season is good to visit and dive into the rich cultural heritage consisting of music, art, grand architecture and Kaffeehauskultur to name just a few. However, christmas (or the weeks prior to christmas) provides for a special atmosphere with christmas markets popping up everywhere, serving food, (hot) drinks and selling local arts and crafts, and christmas decoration lighting up the city.
