Fairytale Bavaria: Neuschwanstein Castle, Alpine Lakes, and Historic Villages
Southern Germany's Bavaria is the quintessential European fairytale destination. With snow-dusted alpine peaks, dense pine forests, medieval walled towns, and ornate castles, it inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle.
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Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle
Built by King Ludwig II in the 19th century as a personal mountain retreat, Neuschwanstein sits high above the village of Hohenschwangau:
- Best Photo Spot: Walk across Marienbrücke (Mary's Bridge) suspended over the Pöllat Gorge for the iconic postcard perspective.
- Nearby Lake: Walk around the pristine alpine waters of Alpsee after your castle tour.
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Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Step back into the Middle Ages in Germany's best-preserved walled city. Walk the complete covered stone rampart loop and stop at the famous Plönlein fork in the road.
