(Within 1 hour of the KMC)
Looking for day trips filled with history, culture, adventure, unique architecture, and of course delicious food? We all may be familiar with the popular day trips in our region, but we want to share our favorite “under the radar” adventures. These include qualities of the more commonly recognized day trips but with considerably less crowds, yet just as much charm.
Wissembourg
The first city is located just across the border in France. In the Northern part of the Alsace region, surrounded by forests and vineyards, lies the charming 13th century town of Wissembourg, France. Walking along the enchanting medieval streets filled with half-timbered homes, you can stroll along a small canal which leads to a gorgeous gothic church & abbey, medieval ramparts, and fortifications along the wooded hiking trails. Be sure to check out the famous Daniel Rebert Patisserie. Known for its delectable gourmet chocolates and pastries, it’s not to be missed when visiting this lovely city.
Idar Oberstein & Herrstein
The next day trip we recommend is the mining village of Idar Oberstein, Germany and the small neighboring medieval village of Herrstein. Just 10 minutes outside the main downtown of Idar-Oberstein are the Edelstein Mines. Here you can explore a gemstone tunnel, mining camp, and digging sites. The Mineral Museum is another great stop to learn about precious gems and minerals from the local area and from around the World. Afterwards, take a leisurely walk through the marketplatz on your way up to see the Felsenkirche, a medieval church (with quite the interesting history) that was carved into the cliffs in the late 15th century. Continue the hike up past the church, to the 11th century castle ruins of Burg Bosselstein and the 14th century Schloss Oberstein. After hiking, we recommend enjoying a meal at one of the oldest restaurants in town called Gaststatte Zum alten Goten.
Before you leave the area, pop over to the enchanting village of Herrstein. This town is unquestionably a hidden gem amongst the outskirts of this famous mining region. The fairytale village dates to the 13th century. While wandering through the village, walk underneath the clock tower and up to the small church. Here you will find hiking trails leading into the ancient forest. The captivating village of Herrstein certainly sends your senses back centuries to medieval Germany. Be sure to check out this delightful tavern, Café Zehntscheune, to enjoy traditional food and drink.
Speyer
Held between dazzling vineyards and the idyllic Rhine River, Speyer, Germany’s picturesque location is ideal for a day trip. It is no wonder why Speyer is one of the most loved cities in the region. Glancing closer at this Palatinate city, you will first notice it proudly displays its imperial Romanesque 11th century Cathedral (which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site). In addition, the Technik Museum is great to explore and amaze. The Technik Museum has impressive displays with outdoor and indoor exhibits ranging from real life submarines, jets, trains, boats, motorcycles, fire engines, to a whole lot more. Speyer also has a small interactive sea life aquarium which is delightful to walk around and learn about all different types of sea creatures.
Bitche
Located in France’s Grand Est region, spend time touring through the city of Bitche, France. You will first notice the striking Citadel de Bitche. Originally, the Citadel was built as a castle from the 13th century, but it eventually turned into a fortress during the Franco-Prussian War. This region was highly contested between the Germans and French for hundreds of years, but after World War Two it was formally given to France. After touring the Citadel, wander through the Garden for Peace “Le Jardin pour la Paix” located just behind the fortress. The serene garden has many unique and interactive displays. Furthermore, there is a military World War Two museum, Espace Memoire WW2, to check out in Bitche and learn in detail about the city’s liberation.
Meisenheim
Have you ever wanted to go on a day trip and just relax and walk through a quaint town with no “sites to see” or “things to do”? We certainly have. Sometimes all the marvelous travel destinations around us feels overwhelming, and we need a beautiful place to relax and reset. Which brings us to our next hidden gem: Meisenheim, Germany. This walled- village is the perfect place to roam for a few hours and lose yourself in this quiet and curious little town. Meisenheim was one of the few Palatinate cities that was spared during the wars so there are an astonishing number of medieval structures remaining. Meisenheim has been dubbed the “Rothernburg of the Rhineland” thanks to its persevered medieval architecture. While wondering these ancient cobblestone streets, you can see 15th century half-timbered homes nestles into the 13th century castle walls. A babbling brook meanders tranquilly through the village and the delightful shops, cafes, and antique stores are worth exploring.
Written by: Kaiserslautern Day Tripper
Exclusively for: Used Car Guys
