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The Lion in Winter

My eyes scanned the itinerary as I prepared my packing list. Visit the quaint town of Oberammergau which hosts Germany’s most popular Passion play. Pack comfortable shoes. See the drafty old castle that inspired Disney’s animated trademark. Pack warm clothes. Travel to the peak of the highest mountain in Germany in the dead of winter. Pack more warm clothes and maybe throw in a hat or two for good measure. Finally, last but not least, take a day to see the Deutsches Museum. Pack a good book. Looks like I was set for anything.

Walking the streets of Oberammergau provided an opportunity to have our first German lesson on the principals of gravity. When an unbalanced foot comes in contact with a slick patch of ice you have a wonderful example of the forces of gravity at work. Slipping and sliding aside Oberammergau had much more to offer than just free skating lessons. Authentically decorated Bavarian houses and shops beckoned us from every corner and the only disappointing part of their famous Passion theatre was that it was closed. Note to self, pack comfortable shoes with grips.
Having braved the streets of Oberammergau I was in high spirits to conquer Neuschwanstein and conquer me it did. The castle was literally jaw-droppingly beautiful. I’m pretty sure it had something to do with the snow but with the threat of ice slicks behind us we all reverted to being little kids. We ran around the castle instigating snowball fights, making snow angels, and burying our faces in the snow. That’s one point for warm clothes and one for Neuschwanstein.
Donning even more layers I felt totally prepared to tackle Zugspitze. The view was absolutely incredible and thanks to my newly acquired sunglasses I could actually see past the glare of the sun reflecting off of the snow. Further note to self, sunglasses are a girl’s best friend.
Slipping my incredibly good German book in my bag I joined the group for our final stop, the Deutsches museum. Innocently entering the massive structure I was completely unprepared for the dizzying array of information that it housed. One room quickly led to another, each more fascinating than the next. From space and aeronautic exhibits to Lego construction and ancient pianofortes the Deutsches Museum was a literal treasure trove of gadgetry and innovation. Before I realized it more than two hours had passed and it was time for us to go. That’s one point for the Deutsches Museum and zero for my good book.
As we spent our last night roaming the streets of Munich I felt a definitive sense of accomplishment. I’d just had an unforgettable trip, with an extraordinary group, through an amazing country, and all within four days. Final note to self, let’s do this again some time!

Bildnachweis: Sarah Camp, Stephanie Pentz