We loaded up the van and drove to the delightful tourist town of Berchtesgaden, Germany. We selected this village because of its proximity to Salzburg, Austria and its connection to WWII (specifically as the city where Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest retreat was built). Tim found a great little gausthaus with enough space for the entire Rietkerk brood. Mom and Dad’s little apartment even had a small balcony where they could enjoy a glass of wine and a view of the hillside.

Our first stop was the Konigsee, about 20 minutes from the B-n-B. A retreat for many Germans, this lake is hidden from the parking lot by a bazillion tourist gift shops selling worthless trinkets highlighting the treasures of Bavaria. It reminded me a bit of Tijuana, Mexico except more charming. The lake itself is spectacular; emerald green waters and soaring mountains surrounding it. A few days later, we took a boat ride from the docks to the other side of the lake and then hiked to the Obersee, a one hour trek through forests and on the side of a cliff. (Don’t worry…there are steel cables along the rocks to help you anchor yourself to the side). At the end of the hike we were treated to a fantastic view of a huge waterfall and peaceful waters of the Obersee.