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  • Blog Travel to the Weserbergland

    Blog Travel to the Weserbergland

    My trip to the Weserbergland was a true journey of discovery – full of inspiring experiences, exciting stories, and even a few humorous moments. As a tour operator, I always personally inspect the regions I offer to my clients. This way, I can ensure that everything is exactly as I imagine it and that the packages are suitable for both individuals and groups. This time, I traveled with my husband and a friend, and we fell in love with the region.

    We stayed with Doris, a tour guide in the Weserbergland who truly knows „everything under the sun.“ Her vacation apartment was very comfortable, and the location simply unique. My husband was so impressed that he immediately said, „I can imagine staying here for a longer period!“ Unfortunately, we only had a few days, but I quickly realized that this region has so much to offer – a perfect blend of nature, culture, and unique experiences.

    On the way to the Weserbergland, I made my first discovery: the Thedinghausen hereditary farm. This historic gem not only offers exciting castle tours, but also a restaurant with regional delicacies and a beautiful outdoor terrace. It’s especially romantic for couples who get married here and enjoy culinary delights. For groups, the costumed tour with „Duchess Christine“ is a highlight – entertaining and informative at the same time. Nearby is the Arboretum, an impressive tree park that appeals to nature lovers and families alike. Whether on a guided tour or exploring on your own – everyone will find their place here.

    Another highlight was the picturesque Ohrberg Park near Hamelin. Admittedly, the narrow forest path would be a bit of an adventure by coach, but our coach drivers master such challenges with aplomb. Expert guided tours are available for groups, and children will also get their money’s worth: A decorated fairytale tree is the perfect place for fairytale hikes – simply magical. We had a fun experience on a guided tour through the damp meadows. Our shoes may have wet afterward, but it was all the more fun – moments like these are unforgettable.

    Hamelin itself absolutely captivated me. The city is perfect for individual travelers, small groups, and large bus tours. Fairy tales naturally play a central role here—after all, Hamelin is located on the German Fairy Tale Route. The story of the Pied Piper is omnipresent: whether during a visit to the Pied Piper’s House, a city tour with small brass rats as guides, or the open-air performances on the Wedding House Terrace, which are a crowd-puller from May to September. I also took a leisurely stroll through the old town—at night! The medieval atmosphere was particularly impressive.

    For groups, I found a great hotel in Hamelin, located right in the city center and offering access to the pedestrian zone. The location is ideal, and the hotel meets all the requirements for a comfortable stay.

    Our second day in the Weser Uplands began wonderfully relaxed with breakfast on the terrace of our apartment at Doris’s. After our first evening, which we rounded off with a few glasses of red wine in their cozy arbor – overlooking the Weser River and the majestic herd of sika deer that Doris keeps in her pastures – we were full of energy again. So much nature and fresh air are perfect for recharging our batteries!

    Our first destination: Hämelschenburg Castle. This is Weser Renaissance in its purest form, and I was immediately captivated. The von Klencke family not only breeds Trakehner horses there, but also opens the castle to visitors. Doris, our multi-talented hostess, offers fantastic tours. Particularly charming: the men were treated to the vaulted cellars, with a small museum full of long guns (just the kind of thing that makes men’s hearts beat faster), and we women were able to admire the historic washrooms. It made me realize once again how good we have it today – my modern washing machine with spin dryer is worth its weight in gold when I imagine all the tedious work with the tub, pond and mangle.

    We continued across the high plateau toward Höxter, with breathtaking views of the Weser Valley and the small villages. Arriving in Höxter, I was immediately captivated by the historic half-timbered houses. They must have really been working hard back then to erect these magnificent buildings. I was particularly taken with the Adam and Eve House – the owner’s artful and loving decoration of his house with figurines! It was like a journey of discovery for the eyes. The deanery and town hall are also real eye-catchers.

    The pedestrian zone in Höxter then surprised me – you can find absolutely everything in terms of food: from a quick snack at the bakery to delicious fruit at the market stalls. My personal favorite: the Engelchen ice cream parlor. They even had cinnamon plum ice cream! Simply heavenly.

    Next stop: Corvey. What can I say? This ensemble of the Baroque palace and the famous westwork, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, cast a magical spell over us. Just looking at it, you can sense that history is embedded in every stone. Particularly impressive is the digital glass wall that separates the westwork from the Baroque church. It tells the story of the abbey monastery and brings you closer to the mission of the monks who once Christianized the north from here.

    As a Hamburg resident, I naturally had a small highlight: The famous Ansgar, who later co-founded Hamburg, had his roots here. His escape to Bremen (for safety reasons!), however, is a story in itself.

    Corvey is also a fascinating literary destination: Hoffmann von Fallersleben was the librarian here – the man who wrote the „Deutschlandlied“ (German National Song)! The palace now houses an impressive library with 75,000 volumes, including many Gothic novels from the 18th century. And then there’s the Baroque audience hall – simply breathtaking. The delicate stucco, the hidden roses, which in Christian tradition represent the sacred and mysterious… Perhaps secrets were actually kept here? I certainly wouldn’t have minded an invitation to tea from the Duke – his flag was flying, so he was at home. Oh well, maybe next time.

    At the end of the day, we headed back to Hamelin, where we ended the evening at a real insider tip: „La Fortuna.“ This tiny, family-run Italian restaurant only seats 30, but what an experience! The courtyard with its fountain and typical Italian decor exuded a real holiday feeling. And the food? To die for! My tip: Be sure to call ahead for a reservation, as the locals have long since known how good the food is there.

    Our last day began with a warm farewell from Doris, our host and multi-talented tour guide. We had planned a city tour of Bodenwerder following in the footsteps of Baron Münchhausen. But before we could get started, we naturally had to deal with the logistical challenges of everyday life – keyword: public restrooms. A long line formed for the ladies, as expected, while the more daring among us simply used the men’s restroom. It remains a mystery why it always goes faster there!

    We were waiting anxiously at the meeting point in front of the town hall when suddenly a gruff woman in an 18th-century outfit approached us. „The Baron didn’t tell me anything about visitors coming! Nothing’s prepared!“ she ranted. It took me a moment to realize: That was Doris – disguised as Mrs. Bolte, the Baron’s housekeeper! The secretive woman, of course, hadn’t revealed that she was also active in Bodenwerder.

    She played her role with complete dedication and took us along on her rounds through the village, ostensibly to run errands and inform the ladies that tomorrow was laundry day. „Don’t forget to help Baron Münchhausen tomorrow!“ she called out to passersby, who looked rather bewildered. Her imaginative anecdotes made us laugh, and soon our group was inventing their own stories. When someone suggested that the Baron might have visited St. Pauli in Hamburg, Doris, aka Frau Bolte, interrupted indignantly: „The Baron in the den of iniquity? Never! At most, at St. Paul’s Church!“ At the end of the performance, she revealed herself to be Doris again and revealed to us that even without a costume, she is recognized as Frau Bolte in Bodenwerder – an honor that must be earned!

    We continued on to Einbeck, where we took a lunch break at the Altstadtcafé in the former Clarissan convent. We enjoyed the special atmosphere between rustic half-timbered houses and historic walls. However, another group had a little adventure: At the „Brodthaus,“ the waitress was a bit overworked with 12 people. The food was quickly packed in doggy bags and given away – a creative solution I’d never seen before.

    Our city tour began at the market fountain. In the old town hall, we admired a cage used for „painful interrogations“ – a gruesome glimpse into the Middle Ages. Particularly creepy was the reference to alleged witches being submerged in the city moat until they confessed. Those who survived were innocent – ​​those who didn’t were out of luck. It’s crazy what passed for „logic“ back then!

    The crooked half-timbered houses of Einbeck told their own stories. I was surprised that the low, windowless dormers were originally used for drying hops – another lesson learned! Unfortunately, our themed tour of sayings and sayings was spontaneously transformed into a general walking tour. Too bad, I would have been looking forward to it, but the majority decided otherwise.

    The highlight was undoubtedly the Eicke House. This magnificent half-timbered facade with figures, scenes, and biblical sayings is like a work of art to browse through. I couldn’t take enough photos! Our guide’s humorous remark that the public men’s restroom actually borders the old city wall and that „peeing on the wall“ is exceptionally permitted here made us chuckle.

    After a final visit to the Market Church, we began our journey home, tired but inspired. These days were full of impressions, history, and unforgettable moments. Exhausted but happy, I know one thing for sure: With all these new ideas, I’ll be able to plan fantastic trips – after a short rest, of course! 😊

    This trip has once again shown me how diverse the Weserbergland region is – from historical highlights to magical experiences to stunning natural beauty. I’m thrilled by the many opportunities it offers for individuals, couples, and groups. And I look forward to incorporating all these discoveries into my offerings so that my clients can experience the region just as I did: unforgettable, inspiring, and with heart. Join us on this unforgettable journey to the Weserbergland region and be inspired by cultural highlights, picturesque nature, and unique stories!

    Table of Contents

    Holiday in the Weserbergland: A Journey in the Footsteps of History

    Erbhof Thedinghausen

    Ohrbergpark

    Hameln

    Hämelschenburg

    Höxter

    World Heritage Corvey Monastery

    Bodenwerder

    Einbeck

    Good to Know

    Getting there

    Arrival by train is easy. The region is also easily accessible by car, campervan, or coach. Bus parking is available in Hameln next to the Tourist Information Center and at the Rattenfänger Hall.

    Accommodation

    We discovered the Hotel „Zur Börse Hameln“ for our groups. The hotel particularly impressed us with its excellent breakfast and comfortable beds.

    Dining

    👉 Learn more and get inspired now!

    Sample blog:

    https://herzanhirn.de/weserbergland-rinteln-bueckeburg-stadthagen/

    https://roaddreamin.de/dornroeschen-muenchhausen-und-der-rattenfaenger-unser-wochenendtrip-durch-das-weserbergland/

    https://teilzeitreisender.de/tag/zeitreise/

  • Our visit to the Painters and Decorators Museum

    Our visit to the Painters and Decorators Museum

    In the heart of Hamburg, more precisely in the Billwerder district, lies a true gem for lovers of craftsmanship and history: the German Painters and Decorators Museum. Housed in the historic Glockenhaus, a half-timbered building dating back to the 17th century, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the more than 800-year history of the painting trade.

    The Glockenhaus: An Architectural Gem

    The Glockenhaus, named after its distinctive ridge turret with bell tower, was built around 1600 and is a prime example of the early country house culture in the Hamburg area. Wealthy Hamburgers built attractive country houses in the marshlands during this period, and the Glockenhaus is one of the few surviving examples of this style of architecture. With its historic staircases, ornate door panels, and stucco ceilings, it exudes the charm of past centuries.

    The Museum: A Journey Through the Ages of Painting

    Since 1984, the Glockenhaus has housed the German Painters‘ and Decorators‘ Museum. The exhibition documents the development of the painting trade over eight centuries. Visitors can marvel at contemporary historical documents, journeyman’s and master craftsman’s certificates, guild artifacts, and examination papers that illustrate the working techniques and lifestyles of various generations of painters.

    A special highlight awaits visitors in the converted barn on the grounds. Here, handcrafted works and historical tools are presented, offering direct insight into the working world of painters of bygone times. Particularly interesting is the exhibition on historical color combinations and techniques from the era when painters and decorators still worked closely with fresco and picture painters. This connection between art and craft is brought to life in an impressive way.

    The Glockenhaus Garden: A Baroque Gem

    After visiting the museum, the adjacent Glockenhaus Garden invites you to take a stroll. The Bergedorf District Office had it designed as a formal Baroque garden, harmoniously complementing the historic ambience of the Glockenhaus. The manicured beds and paths offer a peaceful retreat and allow visitors to immerse themselves in the garden art of past eras.

    Ideal Preparation for the Kunsthalle Hamburg

    For art lovers and the curious, this museum is a wonderful introduction to the world of art and crafts. It is particularly suitable as preparation for a guided tour of the Kunsthalle Hamburg. The exhibition illustrates the deep connections between traditional crafts and high art – a discovery that continues throughout the Kunsthalle.

    Regular opening hours are Saturdays and Sundays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments can be made for visits outside of these hours.

    A visit to the Painters and Decorators Museum is worthwhile not only for professionals in the craft, but for anyone interested in history, architecture, and arts and crafts. The interplay of the historic building, the lovingly designed exhibition, and the idyllic garden make this place a special experience in Hamburg.

  • A culinary journey through Hamburg: Favorite restaurants that inspire

    A culinary journey through Hamburg: Favorite restaurants that inspire

    Hamburg – the Pearl of the North – not only captivates with its maritime atmosphere, but also with its impressive culinary diversity. The city combines tradition and modernity, and this is reflected in its gastronomy. Whether Hanseatic classics or international cuisine, there is something to discover for every taste in Hamburg. I invite you to join me on a culinary journey to my favorite restaurants – places that not only satisfy but also delight.

    Deichgraf: A Revelation of Hamburg Cuisine

    At Deichgraf, Mrs. Ismer and her chef, Thies, have created a place where classic Hamburg cuisine combines with creative touches. The seasonal menu impresses with dishes that are freshly and lovingly prepared. Whether a succulent cod or a delicate beef fillet – every dish is a delight. The service is warm, the prices fair, and the atmosphere invites you to leave everyday life behind. A must for connoisseurs!

    Salt & Silver Zentrale: Culinary Adventures from Mexico and Peru

    Salt & Silver is more than a restaurant – it’s a declaration of love for the flavors of the world. Founded by two globetrotters, the Zentrale brings the cuisine of Mexico and Peru directly to Hamburg. The dishes captivate with their intense flavors, from spicy salsas to delicate ceviche variations. The changing menus are perfectly coordinated and take guests on a culinary journey. Here, you can taste the attention to detail and the enthusiasm for foreign cultures.

    Le Plat du Jour: Bonjour, French way of life!

    A touch of Paris in the heart of Hamburg: At „Le Plat du Jour,“ French bistro culture is celebrated. From delicious beef bourguignon to crème brûlée, here you can enjoy authentic French cuisine at its finest. This is complemented by an excellent selection of wines and service that is both charming and attentive. The stylish ambience makes every visit a mini-vacation in France.

    Laufauf: Tradition meets Hamburg originality

    Laufauf is located in the heart of the historic Kontorhausviertel district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the rooms of a 1920s inn, North German cuisine is served in its most authentic form. Labskaus is the absolute classic here, lovingly prepared and a true taste experience. The changing casseroles are also a homage to traditional dishes with a modern twist. The rustic atmosphere and the Low German menu make every visit a memorable experience.

    Meatery: Perfect steaks in an urban setting

    Sometimes you need a good steak – and there’s no better place in Hamburg for that than the meatery in the Side Hotel. The dry-aged steaks are prepared to perfection and accompanied by sophisticated side dishes. The stylish, urban ambience makes the meatery a hotspot for steak lovers. Highly recommended: A visit to the hotel’s rooftop bar is the perfect way to round off the evening.

    Café Paris: A Classic with Flair

    Café Paris is a culinary landmark in Hamburg. Oysters, croques, and classic French dishes are served in a beautifully designed setting. The café’s architecture, which captures the charm of the Belle Époque, is particularly impressive. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Café Paris is always a good choice.

    Veermaster: Hanseatic Coziness

    Located in the heart of the Reeperbahn, the Veermaster is an authentic piece of Hamburg. Here, you’ll find Hanseatic classics such as Labskaus, herring, and hearty fish soups, served in a rustic ambiance. The Veermaster is a place where you can taste and experience Hamburg – Hanseatic, honest, and delicious.

    Caribbean Restaurant Roatan: A Touch of the Caribbean

    Roatan brings Caribbean joie de vivre to Hamburg. Exotic spices, fresh ingredients, and a unique atmosphere make every visit a highlight. The Creole cuisine, characterized by African and European influences, offers an exciting blend of tradition and innovation. An insider tip for anyone craving something extraordinary.

    Kitchens: A World Tour on a Plate

    A unique concept awaits guests at Kitchens in HafenCity: Every few months, the menu is dedicated to a new country. The recipes the kitchen team collects while traveling are served in innovative 5-course menus. A restaurant that perfectly combines curiosity and enjoyment.

    Neni: Eastern Mediterranean Cuisine to Share

    Neni is a place where you feel at home. Cosmopolitan soul food is served in the listed rooms of the former harbor master’s office. The dishes are inspired by Levantine cuisine and invite you to enjoy them together. Particularly impressive are the terraces, which are almost seven meters below street level and create a unique atmosphere.

    The Lightship: Culinary Delights with a Harbor View

    A restaurant on a historic ship – the Lightship is a highlight for anyone who loves fresh fish and seasonal dishes. With a view of the Hamburg harbor, you can enjoy maritime flair and excellent cuisine. A true Hamburg experience!

    Klinker: Sustainability Meets Nostalgia

    The Klinker combines modern design with a nostalgic flair. Feel-good dishes made from regional, sustainably produced ingredients are served here. From wood-fired bread with fried onions to fresh seafood – every dish is a delight.

    Finkenwerder Elbblick: Enjoyment with a View

    Here, not only the palate but also the eyes are pampered. The stunning view of the Elbe and North German specialties like pan-fried fish make Finkenwerder Elbblick a place where you’ll want to linger.

    Conclusion

    Each of these restaurants has its own unique charm and character, but they all share one thing: they are a feast for the senses. Whether you live in Hamburg or are just visiting – these addresses are not to be missed.

    Do you also have favorite restaurants in Hamburg? I’d love to hear your recommendations and insider tips! 😊

    https://lepetitchef.com/blog/de/aussergewoehnliche-restaurants-hamburg/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA7NO7BhDsARIsADg_hIYsDTZ-I4m1W3Qxf3CPFVWVtwg2h_SLTLGNOYqco5kiZ24WQa2ANkgaAhp-EALw_wcB

  • My favorite hotels

    My favorite hotels

    Small, charming favorite hotels in Hamburg: Personalized service and Hanseatic charm

    Hamburg, the pearl of the north, is known not only for its impressive architecture, harbor, and culture, but also for a number of small, charming hotels that offer that certain something extra. Here we present our personal favorite hotels – places that impress with their individual style, warm service, and a special atmosphere.

    1. Hotel Miramar

    This charming, owner-managed hotel is located directly on the Outer Alster Lake in an English-Hanseatic Art Nouveau building from 1904. It enchants with its elegant furnishings and a touch of nostalgia. From the very first moment, you will be enveloped in a feeling of warmth, harmony, and relaxation – that is what makes relaxation here unique. The rooms are individually designed and offer modern comfort in a historic ambience. The highlight? The view of the Alster Lake is a dream come true. Perfect for those seeking peace and style without sacrificing a central location.

    1. Hotel Mare

    Located just 50 meters from the Hotel Miramar, it also offers individually furnished rooms on two floors with high stucco ceilings and wooden floors. This hotel combines North German charm with timeless elegance. The bright, tastefully furnished rooms invite you to relax, and the family-run hotel impresses with its warm hospitality. The reception and breakfast room are located in the Hotel Miramar. An insider tip for those who appreciate a personal atmosphere.

    1. The George Hotel

    A touch of British flair in Hamburg, not just any boutique hotel: The George has its own unique definition of elegance and design. Ambitious architecture, yet with clean lines. With its elegant rooms, dark wood, and classic design elements, the hotel exudes a timeless charm. Many offer magnificent views of the Alster Lake, the garden, or one of Hamburg’s most exciting districts, St. Georg. The highlight is the rooftop bar overlooking the Outer Alster. Perfect for a sundowner after a long day in the city.

    1. The NIKOLAI Hotel

    Small, luxurious, and with an incomparable design: The NIKOLAI Hotel is a true gem in the heart of the old town. Located directly next to St. Nikolai Church, it impresses with modern rooms, fine materials, and a distinctive sense of style. Its central location means Hamburg’s highlights, such as the Speicherstadt and the Elbphilharmonie, are just a few minutes‘ walk away.

    1. Hotel am Museumshafen

    This little gem in Övelgönne is located directly on the banks of the Elbe and combines maritime coziness with modern comfort. The unique furnishings are reminiscent of old captain’s houses and ensure an authentic Hamburg experience. The view of the passing ships makes your stay unforgettable.

    1. Henri Hotel

    The Henri Hotel is centrally located in the city center and impresses with its lovingly retro design in the style of the 1920s. The lounge areas offer a relaxed atmosphere, and the small kitchens in the rooms make it particularly attractive for longer stays.

    1. Das Stadthaushotel

    This charming hotel in Altona is not only a place of well-being, but also a social project. Here, people with and without disabilities work together, creating a warm, personal atmosphere. The rooms are modern and comfortably furnished, and the location is perfect for exploring Altona’s creative scene.

    1. Little Pearls on the Elbe: Strand Hotel Blankenese

    For anyone who wants to experience Hamburg’s quiet side, the small beach hotels in Blankenese are a true discovery. With views of the Elbe and direct access to the beach, they offer a special blend of luxury and relaxation.

    Why Small Hotels?

    In a city like Hamburg, often dominated by large chain hotels, small hotels offer a unique touch. Personalized service, often family-run, and a charming, distinctive atmosphere make all the difference.

    These hotels are more than just accommodations—they’re small hideaways that make your stay in Hamburg an unforgettable experience. Whether you prefer the Alster, the Elbe, or the bustling city center—everyone will find their perfect home away from home here.

    Which is your favorite? Or do you have some charming little hotel tips of your own? Share them in the comments! 😊

  • Renewable energy

    Renewable energy

    Renewable Energy: Experience the Future

    Hamburg’s Renewable Energies: From the Port to Urban Lighthouses

    Hamburg is playing a pioneering role in the energy transition. With our new tours, we want to make these impressive developments tangible and demonstrate how the city is actively committed to a sustainable future. From a barge trip through the Port of Hamburg to a bus tour to innovative energy projects such as the Georgswerder Energy Mountain or the Energy Bunker in Wilhelmsburg – each tour is an experience that informs and inspires.

    Port of Hamburg: Renewable Energies from a New Perspective

    We recently had the opportunity to experience the Port of Hamburg from a completely different perspective – from the perspective of renewable energies. We cruised the Elbe River on a traditional barge and saw the impressive wind turbines that not only shape the scenery but also provide clean energy for port operations.

    Our guide’s explanations were particularly fascinating: Solar panels on warehouse roofs already cover the electricity needs of large buildings, and shore-side power systems at the terminals supply ships with energy, allowing them to turn off their engines. This not only reduces emissions but also significantly improves air quality.

    One highlight was the former Moorburg power plant, which is currently being converted for hydrogen technology. We were particularly impressed by the idea that Hamburg is shaping a climate-friendly future with hydrogen.

    Georgswerder Energy Mountain: From Garbage Mountain to Energy Center

    Our bus ride took us to Georgswerder Energy Mountain, a symbol of transformation. Once a landfill, the mountain is now equipped with wind turbines and solar panels, providing clean electricity for over 4,000 households.

    The visit was an experience: From the top of the mountain, we enjoyed a breathtaking view of Hamburg, while the exhibition explained the mountain’s technological transformation. Particularly impressive was how methane from the mountain’s interior is used to produce energy – a prime example of sustainable resource use.

    Wilhelmsburg Energy Bunker: History Meets Green Future

    The Wilhelmsburg Energy Bunker was another highlight. This former wartime structure is now a modern power plant that supplies over 3,000 households with electricity and heat. Inside, we marveled at the solar collectors, biomass plants, and the innovative heat storage system.

    The combination of historic architecture and modern technology was impressive. From the observation deck, we could see Hamburg’s skyline and at the same time sense the importance of such projects for the energy transition.

    Our conclusion: Experience Hamburg’s green vision up close

    Whether on water or on land – our tours show how Hamburg combines historic structures and modern technologies to shape a sustainable future. Wind power, solar energy, hydrogen projects, and heat storage are not just concepts; they become tangible here.

    We recommend these tours to anyone interested in sustainable energy and innovative technologies. They are not only informative but also inspiring – a glimpse into Hamburg’s green future that you shouldn’t miss!

    Book now and discover the energy of the future!

    Date: October 2024