we=128:2 on the go
For the working population, these small breaks are often a nice - or unforgettable - experience. Reporting on it is something different than a trip to the Maldives or Indonesia. But it has its charm and two days off are easier to realize in a year than long-distance trips. In addition, the 'footprints' remain much smaller. Even smaller with a small electric car or public transport.
We couldn't take No.3 with us - the holidays are over. So I did some research and looked for hikes in the Black Forest that don't have as many altitude meters. There are no escalators everywhere like in Barcelona. And of course, accommodations with delicious food are also part of such a trip. I found one in Bühlertal. A circular hiking trail: Engelsberg with Lourdes Grotto and Emil-Kern Hut.
The hike is well signposted. The ascent is somewhat reminiscent of the Cinque Terre in Italy - only the sea ismissing in this comparison. Surefootedness is a good prerequisite at the beginning of the tour through the vineyards. We learn that there are also wine sponsors here who take care of the recovery of the vines on this steep slope. Anyone can become a wine sponsor, no matter where they come from. Unfortunately, it is a slope full of red wine vines - unfortunately nothing for us.
There are several benches with fantastic views over the Rhine plain to the Vosges - if the weather is appropriate. And having a snack on a bench there is also something meditative. In summer it will certainly be crowded with hikers - in April there are still a few relaxed people on the go. All hikers pass by the Lourdes Grotto. Large rhododendron bushes on the way block the view of the small Grotto. Water is bubbling there and those who like can also light tea lights.
Once back on the way, there are two options: continue the tour as an AugenBlick round or take a shortcut via the Emil-Kern Hut. Given the weather conditions, we took the latter. The path was rather a farm road - wide enough to be driven on by a tractor or similar. We arrived back at the swimming pool dry. A very nice and relaxed tour.
We stayed at BERGFRIEDEL and were even allowed to choose the room there. All beautifully designed. The restaurant truly deserves its green star. And if you also stay there, you will get a lovely breakfast and the eggs are supplied by the 'rescued' chickens, who sometimes redesign the garden. And a visually impaired hedgehog has found a new home there.
Bühlertal also makes it easy for us to say goodbye - it is still raining when we leave the place. I did not leave a stone figure here, but I am sure that we will visit this place again.
See you soon