June 2007
Royal Lodgings
It’s fair to say that few other governments have a “Palace Department” like that of Bavaria. Germany is home to an astounding 200 restored and partially restored castles, and of those, many are located just a short distance from Munich. If trips to Neuschwanstein and Linderhof have you wishing that your own home enjoyed regal views and rambling halls, some local castle hotels will help you play at prince or princess. Burg Colmberg is located in the countryside between Würzburg and the Alps, near to the medieval town of Rothenburg. The thick stone walls actually mask a quaint boutique hotel with themed rooms. Some double rooms even offer very non-medieval whirlpools (€ 79–130). Smaller single rooms are available for € 42–85, and family rooms that accommodate two children and two adults begin at € 115. Rates include a breakfast buffet and access to the abutting golf course and wildlife park. The Franconian lakes are nearby for more outdoor fun, although enjoying the view from your window and daydreaming might be sufficiently entertaining. (Tel. 980 39 19 20. www.burg-colmberg.de. See website for map.)
Burg Veldenstein is less expensive and a bit more atmospheric, located on the Pegnitz River in Neuhaus, outside of Nuremburg. The tenth-century fortress is outfitted in an eclectic mix of antique and modern furnishings that include, of course, a few suits of armor. Guests sample Franconian wines and local wildlife specialties in the former Knights’ Hall. Single rooms cost € 38; doubles, € 59; triples, € 67; and quads, € 82. (Tel. 915 66 33. www.burghotel-veldenstein.de.
See website for map.)
