Way back in 2007 during our first visit to Germany, our friends introduced us to the popular Kruezberg Monastery located not too far from Frankfurt. Many people visit this hallowed place for the hiking and skiing in the winter, but mostly for the great food and drink available at the Monastery. There are two ways to arrive there: drive up to the parking lot, or park down at the nearby village and hike the approximate 4 km to the Monastery. Either way, you MUST first climb the stairs up to the three crosses to pay your respects (and enjoy the view) before going inside. Given our love for hiking, and knowing the large amount of calories soon to be consumed, we always go for the 4 km walk.
The rain could not hold back the girls as they set off on a furious pace right away. The guys opted for the safe rate of speed which allowed for taking in the great fall colors.
It is too bad the fog moved in. The views from these hills can be amazing, especially with the fall colors.
Our final destination is somewhere in the clouds.....I think.
Everywhere you look is a great picture waiting to be captured.
The trail heads into the final climb through the forest.
Hiking in the fall is a favorite. It is certainly worth the rain and cold....at least I say that now. I believe I uttered something different when I slipped on the mud and fell down.
The views in the forest were amazing.
Yes, even though the guys were lagging the girls and we were soaked to the core, we were still having a great time. I'm sure the thought of great food that was soon to be enjoyed had something to do with the big smiles.
Having arrived to the Monastery, we held tradition by climbing up to the 3 crosses before enjoying the food and tasty drinks.
The view at the top is well worth the effort, even on a cloud-filled day.
After descending the stairs, we headed inside to get warm and enjoyed our reward: a hefty portion of sauerkraut and bratwurst! Mmmm...... The unfortunate part of visiting the Monastery in the fall is the short days.....which translates into our hike back down to the car was entirely in the dark. No pictures to share, for it was completely dark and raining heavily. However, some highlights from the trek down include all persons wearing the appropriate hiking boots falling at least once on the slick trail. The lone person wearing running shoes though, managed to not fall or slip once. Not sure if this implies a lesson to be learned or if the rest of us simply lack the coordination to stand upright on a slicky slop in the dark. Perhaps a combination of both. I do know this, I am looking forward to our next visit to the Kruezberg Monastery. Maybe next time we can leave our winter/rain gear at home by going in the warmer months of spring or summer......but what fun would that be???!!
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