Our Bavarian Holiday

Kent and I decided months ago this year we were going to keep Christmas low-key and simple. And for a number of reasons, we decided to keep gift-giving on a small but meaningful scale. It was easy to choose fun board games and special Lego kits for the boys. For each other, Kent and I discussed a number of options, but ultimately decided what we wanted the most was to experience Germany in all its splendor during the holidays in Bavaria.

It’s no secret to anyone who knows us that we think Bavaria, and in particular the villages of Oberammergau, Ettal, Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Mittenwald are among the most beautiful places on earth. However, during the holidays this region becomes even more spectacular and magical when the townsfolk decorate with traditional Christmas finery.

So the four of us (and Divot, too!) spent three nights and four days in Bavaria and stayed at our favorite hotel, the Rieserssee. We arrived home on December 23rd, just in time for a quiet Christmas at home. Our long weekend was magical. As for Kent and myself, we couldn’t think of a better gift to give each other this year than time together to treasure as a family in an enchanted land. The memories we made and photos we took will last a lifetime.

Candles glowed in the hotel lobby

Even in the rain, the boys enjoyed some serious sled riding fun!

Shop windows sparkle and glow against the evening sky in the Alps

A ghostly white figure of a snowy St. Nicolaus greets visitors in Ettal

The Alps seem to soar above the clouds on a cold, foggy morning

Our favorite hotel nestled in the Alps, The Rieserssee

We enjoyed Sunday evening supper in Mittenwald where all the local residents meet at the Gasthof Stern. The food was delicious and the atmosphere was delightful!

At the Gasthof Stern, a lively gathering of young men and ladies all dressed in traditional German clothing met to enjoy dinner together.