Exploring My Roots at Lake Constance

A Day of Lakeside Discoveries

Today was a delightful blend of lakeside relaxation and historical exploration around Lake Constance. Liam and I set out to enjoy the serene beauty of the region, starting our day in Friedrichshafen and ending it with a memorable dinner in Immenstaad. It’s amazing how much charm and history is packed into these little towns. I’m so happy to be sharing these experiences with Liam, showing him the places that hold so many childhood memories for me.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Staader Fährhaus in Konstanz. The restaurant is nestled right by the lakeside, offering stunning views as we enjoyed our meal. I opted for a traditional German breakfast of Brotchen with Käse and Wurst, while Liam, ever the adventurous one, tried a local fish dish. The gluten-free options clearly marked on the menu made it easy for me to navigate my dietary needs, which I really appreciated. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we headed towards Friedrichshafen. The Uferpromenade in Friedrichshafen was our first stop, and it was absolutely breathtaking. The promenade stretches along the shoreline, offering panoramic views of the lake and the Alps in the distance. The air was fresh and clean, filled with the gentle sound of lapping waves. We strolled hand-in-hand, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant town. The promenade was bustling with activity – cyclists, families, and tourists all enjoying the beautiful weather. It was the perfect place for people-watching and soaking up the atmosphere.


Discover the enchanting Uferpromenade Friedrichshafen, where stunning lake views, lush landscapes, and vibrant local culture come together for an unforgettable experience.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

As we walked along the promenade, we passed numerous shops and cafes. We stopped at a charming little boutique called REYKJAVIK - nordic lifestyle. As someone passionate about sustainable living, I was immediately drawn to their collection of Nordic-inspired clothing and accessories. The store had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and I found a beautiful scarf made from organic wool. Liam, of course, was more interested in the licorice tasting bar they had! It reminded me of our trips to farmers' markets back in Dublin, always on the lookout for unique and eco-friendly finds.


Explore Reykjavik: A vibrant fusion of art, culture, and stunning landscapes, perfect for adventurous travelers seeking unique experiences.

After our shopping detour, we decided to grab a quick lunch at Hexenküche in Konstanz. I had heard great things about their steaks, and Liam, being a true carnivore, was eager to try them out. The restaurant had a rustic and quirky ambiance, with dim lighting and wooden furniture. I ordered a steak with Kräuterbutter, while Liam went for the French steak. My steak was cooked to perfection, exactly as I had requested, and the Kräuterbutter added a delicious, herby flavor. Liam raved about his French steak, declaring it one of the best he had ever tasted. The service was attentive and friendly, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.


Discover Hexenküche in Konstanz: A top-rated steakhouse offering exquisite dishes and a delightful atmosphere for food lovers.

In the afternoon, we made our way to the Bismarckturm Konstanz. The tower is located on the Raiteberg, offering stunning panoramic views of Konstanz, Lake Constance, Switzerland, and the Alps. The walk up to the tower was a bit steep, but the view from the top was well worth the effort. From the top, we could see the entire city of Konstanz spread out before us, with the sparkling waters of Lake Constance stretching out to the horizon. The Alps loomed in the distance, their snow-capped peaks glistening in the sunlight. It was truly a sight to behold.


Discover breathtaking views from Bismarckturm Konstanz, a historic tower offering panoramic sights of the city, Lake Constance, and the majestic Alps.

The Bismarckturm itself is a historical monument, built in 1912 to honor Otto von Bismarck. It stands at 22.8 meters tall, making it the highest Bismarck tower in Baden-Württemberg. I learned that until 1944/45, fires were lit in the fire bowls on the roof and pedestal bases every year on Bismarck's birthday on April 1st. The tower is now used as a lookout tower and can be visited from spring to autumn for a small fee. As someone who appreciates history and culture, I found the Bismarckturm to be a fascinating and informative experience.

After descending from the tower, we decided to take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding area. The Raiteberg is surrounded by green trees, meadows, and vineyards, making it a perfect place for a relaxing walk. We passed several people walking their dogs, families having picnics, and couples enjoying the beautiful scenery. It was a peaceful and idyllic setting, a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

As the sun began to set, we drove to Immenstaad for dinner at Heinzler am See. This restaurant came highly recommended for its beautiful location and excellent cuisine, and it did not disappoint. Heinzler am See is located right on the lakefront, offering stunning views of the water and the surrounding landscape. The atmosphere was elegant and romantic, perfect for a special evening out.


Discover Heinzler am See: A lakeside restaurant and café offering exquisite dining experiences with breathtaking views at Lake Constance.

We started our meal with a glass of local wine, a crisp and refreshing white that perfectly complemented the summer evening. For my main course, I ordered the grilled fish, while Liam opted for the filet américain. My fish was cooked to perfection, flaky and moist, with a delicate flavor that melted in my mouth. Liam raved about his filet américain, declaring it one of the best he had ever tasted. The service was impeccable, attentive without being intrusive, and the staff made us feel like royalty.

After dinner, we took a final stroll along the lakefront, savoring the last moments of our day of exploration. The sky was ablaze with color, as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the clouds in hues of orange, pink, and purple. The air was cool and crisp, filled with the gentle sound of lapping waves. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

Reflecting on today's adventures, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with my roots and share these experiences with Liam. Lake Constance has a special place in my heart, and it was wonderful to see Liam appreciate its beauty and charm. Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Meersburg, with a visit to the Archaeological Landesmuseum Baden-Württemberg and Hafenmole Meersburg. We'll round off the day with drinks at Strandbar Konstanz. I'm already looking forward to another day of discovery and adventure!

As I sit here writing, I feel a deep sense of contentment. The memories of today will stay with me long after we leave Lake Constance. It’s moments like these that make life so special, and I’m so grateful to be able to share them with the one I love. Now, it’s time for a well-deserved rest, so that we can be ready for another day of exploration tomorrow. Gute Nacht!