Haus Design: Switzerland

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Fairytale Friday

As the parents of a "princess" and a "knight", we have seen many castles during our time here in Europe. Just for fun, I thought it would be nice to post a few of our favorites...

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Castle Chillon, Switzerland. A stunning castle set on Lake Geneva

with an awesome treasure hunt for the kids!

(I couldn't get a great shot of this from the lake side so that is why this isn't my own)

Vianden Castle, Luxembourg

This castle stands atop a tiny little mountain,
surrounded by a deep valley and river - well protected!!

We visited during a medieval festival and had a fantastic time chasing dragons.

Burg Eltz, Germany

This castle has been in the same family for over 800 years
and has never been conquered. Now that's impressive!

Cochem Castle, Germany

This beautiful castle overlooks the Mosel River in western Germany.

It is surrounded by vineyards climbing the steep hillsides that rise up

from both sides of the river.

Carcassone Castle, France

This castle is in the southwestern corner of France, near Toulouse. It is very touristy, but still great! This picture doesn't capture how big it is - it's actually a small walled city with a castle within. We had a fabulous time walking around the streets that used to bustle with merchant activity in support of the royalty who lived here.

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And finally, a castle that we haven't visited but I think looks really intriguing.

This is Grad Predjama Castle in Slovenia. Maybe we'll get there before we go!

What is your favorite castle that you have been to, or dream of going to?

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Doorways

As we have traveled through Europe over the last few years I have been drawn more and more often to the architecture of each place. I started taking pictures of doors in particular and have accumulated quite a collection! I love the mystery of what might lie behind a door - especially those that are as old as these are! Who has gathered there? What are their stories? What brought them joy and sorrow? What were their dreams? Perhaps these will provide some exterior inspiration for some of you...