So, finally, we come to the end of all the posts from the end-of-November and early-December trips to Koblenz, Germany (3 days), and then to Vasse, NL (four days)! I knew I'd eventually get here but didn't know when. HA!
It was during our Vasse trip that we took a day to drive the 85 km to Tecklenburg in the North Rhine-Westphalia area of Germany, on the western side of the country.
You may recall that we have had several delightful visits with Münster friends, Philine and Mechtild, over the last years. Once we realized how close we were to their neck of the woods, while in Vasse, it was a no-brainer to figure out a visit. Philine has always wanted us to see the quaint town of Tecklenburg. So the trip was scheduled.
You know how the journey for us is always an important part of our destination.
We already knew that Tecklenburg was a town of half-timbered buildings...and hills.
From our parking spot, we immediately saw the church tower, hallmarking the town's center.
As we entered the center, it was a sight for sore eyes.
And because we had an hour to "waste," before meeting up with Philine and Mechtild,
we headed straight to the tourist center to get our bearings.
We were there on a Tuesday, between two weekends of the Christmas Market.
We didn't have to walk far to get a feel for the town and it's hilly levels.
Remember that this was the second week of December, so Christmas was everywhere.
Have you ever seen so much mistletoe in one spot?
Or how about a witches' path?
Impressions everywhere.
Then Philine and Mechtild showed up and, because it was time for lunch,
we immediately went to the Three Kings hotel where Philine had already reserved a table.
It doesn't get better than that: good God, good friends, good food.
Even lots of photo-op goodies inside the hotel.
Back outside, we continued "looking and seeing"....
...being good tourists that we all are!
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Astrid and I still had another hour or so to kill before heading back to Vasse for dinner,
so the 4 of us took the short drive to the nearby Haus Marck, 2.5 km away.
It's a 12th century castle/mansion that is still a family home.
A young fella inside the courtyard graciously allowed us to peek.
Then we walked alongside the moat towards the back of the property...
and enjoyed the view as the sun was setting.
What a way to end our day with friends who have become dear to us!
Thank you, Philine and Mechtild. We should do this more often
(as daughter Amy loved to say).
And what a way to end these two trips, one week after the other, from last year, 2015!
Now it's this year, 2016, already February...and miles to go before we sleep.
And what a way to end these two trips, one week after the other, from last year, 2015!
Now it's this year, 2016, already February...and miles to go before we sleep.
