Sunday, September 09, 2007
Saturday 1st September
We head further North near Assen and the following day we go to Franeker Planetarium. The Planetarium is found nestled into a pretty row of houses and shops situated on one side of a tree-lined canal. Eise Eisinga built a clockwork replica of the solar system into the ceiling of his main living quarters in the late 18th century. The model shows the planets (that were known about in that era) in real time orbiting the sun, so for example, it will take the model of Saturn just under 30 years to complete its cycle. There are dials showing when the moon and sun will rise and set that day, what phase the moon is in and the position of the Zodiac. A small pendulum, cogs and wheels in his attic and weights hidden in a cupboard, operates all these dials and orbiting globes. The workings are all original, this is no mean feat when you consider that during the second world war a German bomb exploded in the canal outside and destroyed or damaged most of the surrounding buildings but left the Planetarium untouched.
After the Planetarium we take a small side trip to Harlingen and watched the kite surfers for a little while. A very little while as it turned out because the wind was blowing and it was cold. However, on a nice day a walk could be enjoyed along the waters front and a trip to the lifting bridge will reward you with an eyeful of Schooners.
Monday 3rd September
We head to Geithorn an old traditional village where the houses are mainly on their own small islands and bridges criss-cross the river. The houses are traditionally quaint with their long sloping roofs and well-tended gardens with manicured lawns and organised flowerbeds. We are immediately hijacked by a boat owner and readily acquiesce to borrow one of his boats for an hour. With this arranged we meander along the gently flowing river, marvelling at the peace and tranquillity that abounds here in the Netherlands. For a country that is supposed to be the third most populated in Europe, the streets and roads at times appear deserted or at worse have the pleasant feel of a Sunday afternoon.
Tuesday 4th September
We pack up and head towards The Hague (Den Haag), a necessity in order to get a new front window for the caravan from the manufacturers located in Rotterdam. Before we pay them a visit however, we ring the Dutch friends we met when we first stepped into the Netherlands and arranged to meet them on the Wednesday. We met in the park so all boys could play and then had some warm drinks on the beach whereupon we were invited to dine with them on Sunday.
The following day we drive to Rotterdam to get the window replaced which proves to be easy and painless.
We head further North near Assen and the following day we go to Franeker Planetarium. The Planetarium is found nestled into a pretty row of houses and shops situated on one side of a tree-lined canal. Eise Eisinga built a clockwork replica of the solar system into the ceiling of his main living quarters in the late 18th century. The model shows the planets (that were known about in that era) in real time orbiting the sun, so for example, it will take the model of Saturn just under 30 years to complete its cycle. There are dials showing when the moon and sun will rise and set that day, what phase the moon is in and the position of the Zodiac. A small pendulum, cogs and wheels in his attic and weights hidden in a cupboard, operates all these dials and orbiting globes. The workings are all original, this is no mean feat when you consider that during the second world war a German bomb exploded in the canal outside and destroyed or damaged most of the surrounding buildings but left the Planetarium untouched.
After the Planetarium we take a small side trip to Harlingen and watched the kite surfers for a little while. A very little while as it turned out because the wind was blowing and it was cold. However, on a nice day a walk could be enjoyed along the waters front and a trip to the lifting bridge will reward you with an eyeful of Schooners.
Monday 3rd September
We head to Geithorn an old traditional village where the houses are mainly on their own small islands and bridges criss-cross the river. The houses are traditionally quaint with their long sloping roofs and well-tended gardens with manicured lawns and organised flowerbeds. We are immediately hijacked by a boat owner and readily acquiesce to borrow one of his boats for an hour. With this arranged we meander along the gently flowing river, marvelling at the peace and tranquillity that abounds here in the Netherlands. For a country that is supposed to be the third most populated in Europe, the streets and roads at times appear deserted or at worse have the pleasant feel of a Sunday afternoon.
Tuesday 4th September
We pack up and head towards The Hague (Den Haag), a necessity in order to get a new front window for the caravan from the manufacturers located in Rotterdam. Before we pay them a visit however, we ring the Dutch friends we met when we first stepped into the Netherlands and arranged to meet them on the Wednesday. We met in the park so all boys could play and then had some warm drinks on the beach whereupon we were invited to dine with them on Sunday.
The following day we drive to Rotterdam to get the window replaced which proves to be easy and painless.
Wednesday 29th August
We set off for Netherlands. After travelling 600km we arrive in a rustic campsite just over the German border from Rheine. The site is situated near a wood and the buildings have the long sloping roofs typical of this region. The campsite was very quiet; well until we arrived anyway. We did manage to get told off a few times here, by placing the caravan in the wrong place, the boys being too noisy and leaving our car on the pitch and not putting it in the car park! Nevertheless the campsite was idyllic with free-range chickens, a pretty river and attractive bucolic buildings.
Cadan’s birthday descends upon us and we prepare a little party, the boys and I make a cake the day before much to the amusement of the other campers. We have struck up a friendship with a Dutch family who speak very good English and have done much travelling between them. Their son Camile is 5 and joined us for the party. After this we went swimming to round the day off.
We set off for Netherlands. After travelling 600km we arrive in a rustic campsite just over the German border from Rheine. The site is situated near a wood and the buildings have the long sloping roofs typical of this region. The campsite was very quiet; well until we arrived anyway. We did manage to get told off a few times here, by placing the caravan in the wrong place, the boys being too noisy and leaving our car on the pitch and not putting it in the car park! Nevertheless the campsite was idyllic with free-range chickens, a pretty river and attractive bucolic buildings.
Cadan’s birthday descends upon us and we prepare a little party, the boys and I make a cake the day before much to the amusement of the other campers. We have struck up a friendship with a Dutch family who speak very good English and have done much travelling between them. Their son Camile is 5 and joined us for the party. After this we went swimming to round the day off.
Tuesday 28th August
Today we take a trip to the Randers Rainforest or Tropical Zoo. This was fantastic! It is a smaller version of the Eden’s project but with animals from the region wandering through the different domes. The dazzling birds strut across the path in front of you, or build a nest in a tree next to your head. The monkeys dash and frolic amongst the greenery and if you look closely you can see the sloth sleeping on a branch. There are a few other mammals wandering freely but their names escape me.
Another British couple pitch up next to us who also have 3 children and although they are only holidaying in Denmark they want to take a year off and tour next year. They are also currently home educating their 5 year old son, so I was straight in there getting a few hints and tips before we left.
Today we take a trip to the Randers Rainforest or Tropical Zoo. This was fantastic! It is a smaller version of the Eden’s project but with animals from the region wandering through the different domes. The dazzling birds strut across the path in front of you, or build a nest in a tree next to your head. The monkeys dash and frolic amongst the greenery and if you look closely you can see the sloth sleeping on a branch. There are a few other mammals wandering freely but their names escape me.
Another British couple pitch up next to us who also have 3 children and although they are only holidaying in Denmark they want to take a year off and tour next year. They are also currently home educating their 5 year old son, so I was straight in there getting a few hints and tips before we left.
Wednesday 22nd August
It is time to move on. So we head to Billund on Jutland, the main land, home of Legoland. The campsite has a really good play park and we site the caravan right next to it so the boys could spend all day there, and they did! Soon after another English family arrives and we are both surprised and delighted to find they are doing something very similar to us. They have 3 children all about 2 years younger than ours and have sold their house; they have currently been touring for 3 months. Petra is Swedish and John is Cornish uh oh I am beginning to see the connection!
The following day we go to the circus, the boys were all enthralled and really enjoyed it. There were too many animals involved for our liking and had we known we probably wouldn’t have gone but despite this it was an entertaining evening.
The following day we traipse off to Legoland, within easy walking distance from the campsite and a good time is had all round. We were surprised that even after 6 hours at the park we had not managed to go on all the rides and even more surprised that we came away without buying any lego!
It is time to move on. So we head to Billund on Jutland, the main land, home of Legoland. The campsite has a really good play park and we site the caravan right next to it so the boys could spend all day there, and they did! Soon after another English family arrives and we are both surprised and delighted to find they are doing something very similar to us. They have 3 children all about 2 years younger than ours and have sold their house; they have currently been touring for 3 months. Petra is Swedish and John is Cornish uh oh I am beginning to see the connection!
The following day we go to the circus, the boys were all enthralled and really enjoyed it. There were too many animals involved for our liking and had we known we probably wouldn’t have gone but despite this it was an entertaining evening.
The following day we traipse off to Legoland, within easy walking distance from the campsite and a good time is had all round. We were surprised that even after 6 hours at the park we had not managed to go on all the rides and even more surprised that we came away without buying any lego!
Monday 20th August
We drive the 40 minute journey to try the Lejre Research Centre again to find that yesterday when we were ushered into the make shift car park it was not the research centre and if we had driven 1km further up the lane we would have found it and found it open. We also discovered that it is now the low season and therefore closed on Mondays – Doh! We head back to the caravan defeated. Will we try again tomorrow?
Tuesday 21st August
Yes we do and we arrive in time to see the wild boars being fed. After this we walk through some countryside and see some of the black horned cattle, ancestors or close relatives to the Aurochs that used to be hunted by man during the Stone Age. The Aurochs used to be 2m high at the shoulder and although these aren’t as tall they are none the less impressive. After passing a pit used to trap wild boar we arrive at the Stone Age village where we can see a traditional shelter made from sticks and animal skins. The boys enjoy helping a man make a fire whilst he heats some primitive tar to put on some traditionally built boats. We can view some primitive tools and we had the opportunity to ask questions about the Neolithic way of life.
After this we march on to the Iron Age settlement containing five or six dwellings as well as a weaver’s cottage, a forge and several goats scattered around. We could walk into the houses and pretend to sleep in the beds all covered in sheeps skin. After this we walk into the Viking settlement and have a good look around. We have a go in a traditional river boat hollowed out of a tree trunk and nearly capsize with all 5 of us in it. The children are rigid with fear and we quickly return to the shore, whereupon Jon sets out on his own with Jory who suddenly screams out that they are sinking much to everyone’s amusement. They were not sinking and both returned safely to the shore. If we wanted we could have helped hollow out a tree trunk with an axe to help build another boat but we decided it was safer not to give this a go.
We all had a go at trying to make sparks with a piece of flint and iron, Jon managed to do it but no one else did. There were several areas marked out for making fires and going to the dying embers of one Jon stoked it back into life. Whilst Jory and Jon kept the fire going I took the other two boys to grind some wheat into flour, whereupon another English group came along and we joined forces. Once the rain started to fall we gathered up the flour, added some water, shaped them into biscuits and proceeded to cook them on an iron plate atop the fire, it took a little while. They were quite edible and with the added ingredient of a few herbs, created an interesting taste!
We drive the 40 minute journey to try the Lejre Research Centre again to find that yesterday when we were ushered into the make shift car park it was not the research centre and if we had driven 1km further up the lane we would have found it and found it open. We also discovered that it is now the low season and therefore closed on Mondays – Doh! We head back to the caravan defeated. Will we try again tomorrow?
Tuesday 21st August
Yes we do and we arrive in time to see the wild boars being fed. After this we walk through some countryside and see some of the black horned cattle, ancestors or close relatives to the Aurochs that used to be hunted by man during the Stone Age. The Aurochs used to be 2m high at the shoulder and although these aren’t as tall they are none the less impressive. After passing a pit used to trap wild boar we arrive at the Stone Age village where we can see a traditional shelter made from sticks and animal skins. The boys enjoy helping a man make a fire whilst he heats some primitive tar to put on some traditionally built boats. We can view some primitive tools and we had the opportunity to ask questions about the Neolithic way of life.
After this we march on to the Iron Age settlement containing five or six dwellings as well as a weaver’s cottage, a forge and several goats scattered around. We could walk into the houses and pretend to sleep in the beds all covered in sheeps skin. After this we walk into the Viking settlement and have a good look around. We have a go in a traditional river boat hollowed out of a tree trunk and nearly capsize with all 5 of us in it. The children are rigid with fear and we quickly return to the shore, whereupon Jon sets out on his own with Jory who suddenly screams out that they are sinking much to everyone’s amusement. They were not sinking and both returned safely to the shore. If we wanted we could have helped hollow out a tree trunk with an axe to help build another boat but we decided it was safer not to give this a go.
We all had a go at trying to make sparks with a piece of flint and iron, Jon managed to do it but no one else did. There were several areas marked out for making fires and going to the dying embers of one Jon stoked it back into life. Whilst Jory and Jon kept the fire going I took the other two boys to grind some wheat into flour, whereupon another English group came along and we joined forces. Once the rain started to fall we gathered up the flour, added some water, shaped them into biscuits and proceeded to cook them on an iron plate atop the fire, it took a little while. They were quite edible and with the added ingredient of a few herbs, created an interesting taste!
Friday 17th August
We head off into the city of Copenhagen and we spend a rather fretful day wondering around looking at the beautiful buildings. The city feels like a cross between London and Amsterdam with grand historic buildings, new architecture, canal and bicycles.
Sunday 19th August
We wanted to go to the Lejre Research Centre, where there are active Stone Age, Iron Age and Viking Age settlements with traditional crafts and work carried out during this era. This weekend they had a special archery contest. As we arrived we were directed into a makeshift car park and we joined the queue of people to enter through the gates. This advertising was big on bringing your own picnic, as we looked around at the people we thought we were under prepared as they had sack trucks loaded with folding chairs and tables and large picnic baskets. We could also hear musicians tuning up their instruments. Things were starting to look a bit unusual and we managed to collar a security guard who explained that we were in the queue for a concert only available to ticket holders and that the visitors centre was closed.
With our day’s activities cancelled we visited the Frederiksborg Castle dating from 1560 it is boasted as being the most elaborate slot (castle) in Scandinavia. It is built from red bricks and has a copper roof, resplendent with large golden balls on the Tower. To start with we walked over the moat along a cobbled bridge and entered into the main courtyard where we were greeted with an ornate and elaborate fountain, dragon drainpipes and carved statues. The castle houses a national history museum, the rooms are exquisitely decorated and the great hall is truly marvellous and we were lucky to hear some musicians practising.
We head off into the city of Copenhagen and we spend a rather fretful day wondering around looking at the beautiful buildings. The city feels like a cross between London and Amsterdam with grand historic buildings, new architecture, canal and bicycles.
Sunday 19th August
We wanted to go to the Lejre Research Centre, where there are active Stone Age, Iron Age and Viking Age settlements with traditional crafts and work carried out during this era. This weekend they had a special archery contest. As we arrived we were directed into a makeshift car park and we joined the queue of people to enter through the gates. This advertising was big on bringing your own picnic, as we looked around at the people we thought we were under prepared as they had sack trucks loaded with folding chairs and tables and large picnic baskets. We could also hear musicians tuning up their instruments. Things were starting to look a bit unusual and we managed to collar a security guard who explained that we were in the queue for a concert only available to ticket holders and that the visitors centre was closed.
With our day’s activities cancelled we visited the Frederiksborg Castle dating from 1560 it is boasted as being the most elaborate slot (castle) in Scandinavia. It is built from red bricks and has a copper roof, resplendent with large golden balls on the Tower. To start with we walked over the moat along a cobbled bridge and entered into the main courtyard where we were greeted with an ornate and elaborate fountain, dragon drainpipes and carved statues. The castle houses a national history museum, the rooms are exquisitely decorated and the great hall is truly marvellous and we were lucky to hear some musicians practising.
Tuesday 14th August
After 8 hours of driving, we arrive in Copenhagen in Denmark, greeted by warm sunshine. We had a 30 minutes ferry to get here and were astounded to see a train drive onto the Ferry and then off again once we reached Denmark. We wake up the following day to wind and rain!
Thursday 16th August
Roskilde and the reconstructed Viking ships beckoned. 5 ships from the Viking age had been sunk in the Fjord to create a barrier protecting the inhabitants of Roskilde. These ships were rediscovered and have been cleaned preserved and reconstructed, one of which is a warrior ship that could have carried 60 – 100 men. The reconstruction is by no means complete but you can still appreciate the shape and size of them. In the harbour there are some replica boats so you can get a better idea of what they looked like.
After this we trundled off to Dragor a preserved 18th century town with yellow cottages topped with thatch or pink tiles. We wondered around the very tidy cobbled lanes, had some fudge and enjoyed the views of the pretty harbour.
After 8 hours of driving, we arrive in Copenhagen in Denmark, greeted by warm sunshine. We had a 30 minutes ferry to get here and were astounded to see a train drive onto the Ferry and then off again once we reached Denmark. We wake up the following day to wind and rain!
Thursday 16th August
Roskilde and the reconstructed Viking ships beckoned. 5 ships from the Viking age had been sunk in the Fjord to create a barrier protecting the inhabitants of Roskilde. These ships were rediscovered and have been cleaned preserved and reconstructed, one of which is a warrior ship that could have carried 60 – 100 men. The reconstruction is by no means complete but you can still appreciate the shape and size of them. In the harbour there are some replica boats so you can get a better idea of what they looked like.
After this we trundled off to Dragor a preserved 18th century town with yellow cottages topped with thatch or pink tiles. We wondered around the very tidy cobbled lanes, had some fudge and enjoyed the views of the pretty harbour.
Friday 10th August
We went to the Lindt Chocolate Museum, the museum was ok for a quick wander through but the truly best bit was the small factory where the different machines and techniques for making chocolate are on display and working. The children could see the manufacture of chocolate from the Cocoa bean to the finished wrapped chocolate and of course they were allowed to indulge is some chocolate from the shop.
Saturday 11th August
We pack up and leave the crowded campsite heading to Wolfsburg near Hanover; the drive was supposed to be 4 hours but was extended by 1 and ½ due to road works and traffic jams. So when we finally reached the road leading to the campsite we were dismayed to find our way blocked by a Policeman. A football game had just finished and they had closed the road, which runs alongside the stadium, until all the fans had left. This was 6pm and the policeman said we could come back at 8pm! So we end up parking in a Staples car park and I make bacon and egg sandwiches for tea and then try again.
Monday 13th August
The campsite is conveniently located for a trip to the Autostadt and Volkswagen factory and close enough for us to walk. The most prominent buildings are the two towers filled with new Volkswagen cars, straight from the factory. They are taken along underground tunnels and then placed in these silos with the use of an automatic lift; you could see cars being taken up and down all the time.
Inside the main building there is a play area for the children where you can leave them for free for 1 and ½ hours, this was complete with race track and go karts. The children practically begged us to let them go there and we reluctantly agreed. The whole thing is OK for a general quick walk through and there are some interesting shows and not to mention a few nice cars.
All in all the experience was a good one and we enjoyed ourselves. For 30 we spent all day there and had 3 hours of free childcare for the boys. The building architecture is interesting and unique; the grounds are laid out well and were a sensory delight. The rotating lavender tunnel was one of the many weird and wonderful things they had there.
We went to the Lindt Chocolate Museum, the museum was ok for a quick wander through but the truly best bit was the small factory where the different machines and techniques for making chocolate are on display and working. The children could see the manufacture of chocolate from the Cocoa bean to the finished wrapped chocolate and of course they were allowed to indulge is some chocolate from the shop.
Saturday 11th August
We pack up and leave the crowded campsite heading to Wolfsburg near Hanover; the drive was supposed to be 4 hours but was extended by 1 and ½ due to road works and traffic jams. So when we finally reached the road leading to the campsite we were dismayed to find our way blocked by a Policeman. A football game had just finished and they had closed the road, which runs alongside the stadium, until all the fans had left. This was 6pm and the policeman said we could come back at 8pm! So we end up parking in a Staples car park and I make bacon and egg sandwiches for tea and then try again.
Monday 13th August
The campsite is conveniently located for a trip to the Autostadt and Volkswagen factory and close enough for us to walk. The most prominent buildings are the two towers filled with new Volkswagen cars, straight from the factory. They are taken along underground tunnels and then placed in these silos with the use of an automatic lift; you could see cars being taken up and down all the time.
Inside the main building there is a play area for the children where you can leave them for free for 1 and ½ hours, this was complete with race track and go karts. The children practically begged us to let them go there and we reluctantly agreed. The whole thing is OK for a general quick walk through and there are some interesting shows and not to mention a few nice cars.
All in all the experience was a good one and we enjoyed ourselves. For 30 we spent all day there and had 3 hours of free childcare for the boys. The building architecture is interesting and unique; the grounds are laid out well and were a sensory delight. The rotating lavender tunnel was one of the many weird and wonderful things they had there.
Wednesday 8th August
We went to Wuppertal today to see the only suspension railway in the world. It’s basically like a tram but the rail is on the top rather than the bottom with the carriages hanging down. The track is directly over the river and meanders along with it. Jon became very excited and there were quite a few shouts of “Look at that!” in my ear as I was concentrating on driving, I thought a quick slap was necessary but managed to restrain myself. We parked the car one stop away from the main Wuppertal train station and jumped aboard, after buying a ticket obviously! I didn’t expect the train itself to wobble about so much; Jon running to the front to take a video probably increased the wobbling. We jumped off at the Zoo stop and did the zoo thing.
We went to Wuppertal today to see the only suspension railway in the world. It’s basically like a tram but the rail is on the top rather than the bottom with the carriages hanging down. The track is directly over the river and meanders along with it. Jon became very excited and there were quite a few shouts of “Look at that!” in my ear as I was concentrating on driving, I thought a quick slap was necessary but managed to restrain myself. We parked the car one stop away from the main Wuppertal train station and jumped aboard, after buying a ticket obviously! I didn’t expect the train itself to wobble about so much; Jon running to the front to take a video probably increased the wobbling. We jumped off at the Zoo stop and did the zoo thing.
Saturday 4th August
We head back to Germany to a campsite next to the Rhine and spend a couple of days not doing much but enjoying the sunshine. Tuesday we head into Cologne itself, as we emerge out of the train station in the middle of Cologne and see the huge Cathedral dominating the skyline, I suddenly realise I have been here before; some 12 years earlier. The Cathedral is the largest gothic cathedral in Germany and is truly massive, there are some original 14th Century stained glass windows, lots of ornate mosaics and the gargoyles are pretty interesting.
After lunch at the sinful McDonalds, we meander through the town and go into the Globetrotter outdoor shop. Well what fun we had in there! First of all we discovered the ice room. The room is kept at a steady -7.5 degrees and there are benches and tables carved out of ice, you can also turn on a wind machine, all of this is of course for testing out their extreme weather gear and we just had to have a go. On another level we found the rain room where you can don the wet weather gear and go into a room where the heavens open, we didn’t try this out but there was someone in there getting drenched as we walked by. There was a ball pit for the boys to play in, as well as a moving image of a pond with fish projected onto the floor, when you walked over it you caused ripples and the fish swam away from you. On the top level there is a corridor full of climbing walls and on the bottom floor there is an indoor pool where you can try out boats and diving gear, of course Jon had to try out the canoe and gave the boys a ride each as well. All in all the shop was really cool and we had lots of fun there and I would definitely recommend a visit if you ever come to Cologne, oh the Cathedral is worth a look too!
We head back to Germany to a campsite next to the Rhine and spend a couple of days not doing much but enjoying the sunshine. Tuesday we head into Cologne itself, as we emerge out of the train station in the middle of Cologne and see the huge Cathedral dominating the skyline, I suddenly realise I have been here before; some 12 years earlier. The Cathedral is the largest gothic cathedral in Germany and is truly massive, there are some original 14th Century stained glass windows, lots of ornate mosaics and the gargoyles are pretty interesting.
After lunch at the sinful McDonalds, we meander through the town and go into the Globetrotter outdoor shop. Well what fun we had in there! First of all we discovered the ice room. The room is kept at a steady -7.5 degrees and there are benches and tables carved out of ice, you can also turn on a wind machine, all of this is of course for testing out their extreme weather gear and we just had to have a go. On another level we found the rain room where you can don the wet weather gear and go into a room where the heavens open, we didn’t try this out but there was someone in there getting drenched as we walked by. There was a ball pit for the boys to play in, as well as a moving image of a pond with fish projected onto the floor, when you walked over it you caused ripples and the fish swam away from you. On the top level there is a corridor full of climbing walls and on the bottom floor there is an indoor pool where you can try out boats and diving gear, of course Jon had to try out the canoe and gave the boys a ride each as well. All in all the shop was really cool and we had lots of fun there and I would definitely recommend a visit if you ever come to Cologne, oh the Cathedral is worth a look too!
Friday 3rd August
Time to visit Luxembourg City. The capital city of Luxembourg is quiet, clean and well maintained. We visited the church of Our Lady which had a truly fantastic organ and lots of glittery and ornate things on the altar, good stained glass windows and frescos, especially the man sporting bunny rabbit ears as spotted by Cadan. There is truly, on the ceiling, if you don’t believe us, go and see for yourself!
After this we traipse off to see the Palais Grand Ducal, the official royal residence of the Duke and Duchess of Luxembourg. It has an attractive and ornate façade and is surprisingly smack bang in the middle of the street with very little security. A few steps away is the main square with street café’s and a play park surrounding the statue of Grand Duc William II. Jon enjoyed an Irish coffee whilst I enjoyed a toilet run and bottom wiping – um something is up here I think! Anyway, Luxembourg was a nice city, if a little tres chic and expensive. It seems to be on two levels, with the town perched up high, on the second level there is a park situated under the numerous bridges, meandering around the bottom of the city.
Time to visit Luxembourg City. The capital city of Luxembourg is quiet, clean and well maintained. We visited the church of Our Lady which had a truly fantastic organ and lots of glittery and ornate things on the altar, good stained glass windows and frescos, especially the man sporting bunny rabbit ears as spotted by Cadan. There is truly, on the ceiling, if you don’t believe us, go and see for yourself!
After this we traipse off to see the Palais Grand Ducal, the official royal residence of the Duke and Duchess of Luxembourg. It has an attractive and ornate façade and is surprisingly smack bang in the middle of the street with very little security. A few steps away is the main square with street café’s and a play park surrounding the statue of Grand Duc William II. Jon enjoyed an Irish coffee whilst I enjoyed a toilet run and bottom wiping – um something is up here I think! Anyway, Luxembourg was a nice city, if a little tres chic and expensive. It seems to be on two levels, with the town perched up high, on the second level there is a park situated under the numerous bridges, meandering around the bottom of the city.
Wednesday 1st August
Off to a new country we arrive in a campsite near Bonn in Luxembourg and pitch up next to a gently flowing river with the opposite bank covered in a rich dense wood and five white geese to set the picture off nicely. Not wanting to be ignorant English Jon enquires as to what language is spoken in Luxembourg “Is it French or German?”
“Yes” the lady answers, “We speak both.”
“But on a day to day basis what do you normally speak?”
“Oh we speak Luxembourgish!” Ok then! So we decided to speak in French, although ended up putting a few German words in as we had been used to speaking German for the last month or so, this worked fine as Luxembourgish does seem to be a mixture of the two so we were understood perfectly, well almost!
On the Thursday we head north to the town of Vianden to visit the Chateau built in the 11th century; the boys again enthused over the walk up the hill along the clean and well maintained cobbled streets. The suits of armour, lances, scythes and tapestry room held the boys interest but the bedroom, kitchen and dining room had them kicking their heels.
Off to a new country we arrive in a campsite near Bonn in Luxembourg and pitch up next to a gently flowing river with the opposite bank covered in a rich dense wood and five white geese to set the picture off nicely. Not wanting to be ignorant English Jon enquires as to what language is spoken in Luxembourg “Is it French or German?”
“Yes” the lady answers, “We speak both.”
“But on a day to day basis what do you normally speak?”
“Oh we speak Luxembourgish!” Ok then! So we decided to speak in French, although ended up putting a few German words in as we had been used to speaking German for the last month or so, this worked fine as Luxembourgish does seem to be a mixture of the two so we were understood perfectly, well almost!
On the Thursday we head north to the town of Vianden to visit the Chateau built in the 11th century; the boys again enthused over the walk up the hill along the clean and well maintained cobbled streets. The suits of armour, lances, scythes and tapestry room held the boys interest but the bedroom, kitchen and dining room had them kicking their heels.
Saturday 28th July
As Jon was practically dying from his cold we didn’t do much until Saturday when we went to see the Hangloch waterfall, which at 97m is the tallest natural waterfall in Germany. And indeed it was a waterfall with all the characteristics you would expect, white rushing water, cool mist, and thunderous noise and to the boys’ immense joy a walk to the top.
Monday 30th July
We leave behind the rain in the black forest and head for Heidelberg purported to be the most beautiful town in Germany. Walking along the street we turned into a small alley and were presented with the pink walls of a cathedral looming out at us with some impressive carved statues on the façade. Inside the cathedral was painted entirely white, giving it a light and airy feel and the frescoes were divine! After this we decided it was time to walk up the steep hill to the Heidelbergerschloss (castle) built in 12th Century, it is now mainly in ruins, although from the interior courtyard the façade is truly marvellous with the splendid pink stone providing a rich hue to the carved figures.
As Jon was practically dying from his cold we didn’t do much until Saturday when we went to see the Hangloch waterfall, which at 97m is the tallest natural waterfall in Germany. And indeed it was a waterfall with all the characteristics you would expect, white rushing water, cool mist, and thunderous noise and to the boys’ immense joy a walk to the top.
Monday 30th July
We leave behind the rain in the black forest and head for Heidelberg purported to be the most beautiful town in Germany. Walking along the street we turned into a small alley and were presented with the pink walls of a cathedral looming out at us with some impressive carved statues on the façade. Inside the cathedral was painted entirely white, giving it a light and airy feel and the frescoes were divine! After this we decided it was time to walk up the steep hill to the Heidelbergerschloss (castle) built in 12th Century, it is now mainly in ruins, although from the interior courtyard the façade is truly marvellous with the splendid pink stone providing a rich hue to the carved figures.
