Bavarian Magic: From Forests to Beer

Germany – where beer flows like rivers and castles perch on nearly every hilltop. Whether you’re wandering through the misty, dense Black Forest or toasting to your latest adventure in Munich's beer gardens, Deutschland always knows how to keep things wunderbar! The expanse ranging from medieval castles cutting-edge cities, has a way of surprising you at every turn. Join us as we dive into a country famous for its rich history and quirky traditions because every moment spent here, is nothing short of an adventure

Our German adventure took us to two iconic destinations – the Black Forest and Munich. On our journey to Switzerland, we passed through the enchanting Black Forest (Schwarzwald) and made a brief stop for lunch in the Drubba region. Nestled within the heart of the Black Forest, Drubba is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and as a hub for traditional cuckoo clocks. Although small in size, this charming area holds a significant place in the region’s history, particularly due to its long-standing legacy in the cuckoo clock industry.

Beyond its clocks, Drubba serves as the perfect gateway for exploring the natural wonders of the Black Forest, from scenic hiking trails and picturesque waterfalls to stunning vistas. The region’s quaint villages, traditional woodcraft, and abundant outdoor activities make it a delightful destination for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

As we soaked in the stunning scenery and marveled at the cuckoo clocks, we couldn’t resist the ultimate temptation—devouring a slice (or two) of the legendary Black Forest cake, the real crown jewel of our visit!

After our delicious pit stop, we hit the road again, heading towards Switzerland (stay tuned for the next blog!)—driving deeper into the Black Forest, cruising past the majestic Rhine River, which magically transforms into the mighty Rhine Falls once it crosses into Switzerland. And just like that, our first German adventure came to a perfect, scenic end!

Next up was Munich, where lederhosen meet luxury, and beer flows as freely as the autobahn! Whether you’re clinking steins in the famous beer gardens, marveling at fairy-tale castles, or hopping between world-class museums, this Bavarian treasure perfectly fuses old-world charm with modern flair. From the historic Marienplatz to the high-speed thrill of the German engineering marvels, Munich knows how to throw a good party – and by party, we mean one that lasts all year long.

September in Munich kicks off Oktoberfest, the world-famous beer festival that runs until the first weekend of October, drawing millions of visitors from all corners of the globe. The city streets come alive with people dressed in traditional lederhosen and dirndls, happily munching on bratwurst, pretzels, and roast chicken while sipping on Deutsches Bier in every pub. We joined the festive crowds, wandering through the lively streets of Munich, and made our way to Marienplatz, one of the city's most historic and iconic landmarks.

Before heading to the iconic Marienplatz, we made a quick detour to the Hofbräuhaus – one of Munich's most legendary beer halls. Situated right in the city center, this historic hotspot dates back to 1589 and is renowned for its traditional Bavarian charm, flavorful beers, hearty dishes, and vibrant ambiance. More than just a place to grab a drink, Hofbräuhaus is a step back in time, offering an authentic taste of Munich’s rich beer culture. With its long wooden tables, friendly servers in traditional Bavarian garb, and endless flows of freshly brewed Hofbräu beer, it’s the ultimate spot to soak in the city’s festive vibe. Whether you’re enjoying a frosty maß of beer, munching on a plate of crispy wiener schnitzel, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, a visit to Hofbräuhaus is an essential Munich experience.

Strolling past the impressive beer garden, we finally arrived at Marienplatz, which translates to "Mary's Square," named after the Mariensäule (Marian Column), a statue of the Virgin Mary that stands proudly at the square's heart. This vibrant central square perfectly blends history with modernity. Situated in the city's core, Marienplatz has been Munich’s main hub since the 12th century. It's home to the magnificent Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), a neo-Gothic marvel featuring the famous Glockenspiel, which draws crowds at 11 a.m. and noon when its mechanical figurines perform a charming show. Whether you’re admiring the grandeur of the town hall or soaking up the bustling atmosphere, Marienplatz is where Munich’s rich history and contemporary vibe merge into a truly unforgettable experience.

As our adventure in Germany came to a close, we couldn't help but feel a little bit "wunderbar" ourselves. From the misty paths of the Black Forest to the lively streets of Munich, this trip was filled with unforgettable moments — like sinking our teeth into that mouthwatering Black Forest cake, clinking steins at Hofbräuhaus, and watching Marienplatz come alive with history and charm. Germany, with its quirky traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and timeless beer culture, stole our hearts. And while this chapter of our journey may be over, we know that, just like the beer in Munich, our memories of this trip will keep flowing.

Prost Deutschland, for an unforgettable adventure!