Exploring My Roots at Lake Constance

Homecoming on Lake Constance

The first day of our trip to Lake Constance was a beautiful blend of revisiting cherished childhood memories and creating new ones with Liam. As we arrived in Konstanz, the familiar sights and sounds immediately transported me back to my younger days. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of the lake and blooming flowers, a perfect start to our 8-day adventure.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Cafe Münsterhof, nestled in the heart of Konstanz's Old Town. It felt surreal to be back in the same square where I spent countless afternoons as a child. The cafe was as charming as I remembered, with its simple outdoor seating and the Münster's imposing presence right next door. Liam and I enjoyed some traditional German breakfast pastries and strong coffee, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere before the day's adventures began.


Discover authentic German flavors at Cafe Münsterhof in Konstanz – where tradition meets modernity in every bite.

“The best journeys take us to places we've never been, while also reminding us of where we belong.”

After breakfast, we strolled along the Bodensee Promenade. The promenade was bustling with activity, locals and tourists alike enjoying the sunny weather. The views of Lake Constance were simply breathtaking, with the Alps providing a stunning backdrop. I pointed out various landmarks to Liam, sharing stories of my childhood. I reminisced about summer days spent swimming in the lake and winter evenings watching the Christmas ships sail by. It was heartwarming to see that, despite the passage of time, the essence of Konstanz remained unchanged. The promenade was lined with palm trees, which gave the area a Mediterranean feel, and we enjoyed watching the boats bobbing gently in the harbor.


Explore the picturesque Bodensee Promenade in Friedrichshafen, a perfect blend of stunning lake views, local culture, and leisurely strolls along Lake Constance.

Next on our list was Island Mainau, the famous flower island. A short bus ride took us to the island's entrance, and as soon as we stepped onto Mainau, we were greeted by an explosion of colors and fragrances. The island was in full bloom, with countless varieties of flowers creating a breathtaking display. We wandered through the meticulously manicured gardens, admiring the vibrant flowerbeds and the majestic trees. The air was filled with the buzzing of bees and the sweet scent of blossoms. I was particularly excited to show Liam the Mainau Butterfly House, one of the largest in Germany. Inside, hundreds of butterflies fluttered freely, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere. Liam was mesmerized by the colorful wings and delicate movements of these beautiful creatures. We spent a good hour inside, simply marveling at the beauty of nature.


Explore the stunning Island Mainau, a floral paradise with breathtaking gardens, a historic castle, and unforgettable family-friendly adventures.

For lunch, we decided to try Constanzer Wirtshaus, a traditional pub that I remember visiting with my family. The Wirtshaus had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with a sprawling riverside terrace offering stunning lake views. We sat outside, enjoying the warm sunshine and the gentle breeze. Liam ordered a hearty German meal, while I opted for a lighter salad. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. As we ate, we watched the boats sailing on the lake and listened to the lively chatter of the other patrons. It was the perfect place to relax and soak in the local atmosphere. I was happy to see that the restaurant still maintained its authentic charm and offered a true taste of German cuisine.


Experience authentic Bavarian and Swabian cuisine at Constanzer Wirtshaus with stunning lake views in beautiful Konstanz.

In the afternoon, we decided to do some shopping at the LAGO Shopping Center. While I generally prefer smaller, local shops, I was curious to see what the shopping center had to offer. LAGO was modern and spacious, with a wide variety of stores ranging from clothing and accessories to home goods and electronics. We browsed through a few shops, but I couldn't resist buying a traditional German souvenir for my mother. Liam found a new travel guidebook, which he was thrilled about. The shopping center was conveniently located near the train station, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. We also found a store that sold eco-friendly toiletries, which was a great find considering our commitment to sustainable travel.


Experience the best of shopping and dining at LAGO Shopping Center in Konstanz, where style meets convenience in a vibrant atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant See Sicht, a charming restaurant known for its fresh cuisine and stunning lake views. The restaurant was located right on the waterfront, offering panoramic views of Lake Constance. The atmosphere was elegant and romantic, perfect for our first evening in Konstanz. We started with some local appetizers, followed by fresh fish dishes. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. As we dined, we watched the sunset over the lake, painting the sky with vibrant colors. It was a magical moment, and I felt grateful to be sharing it with Liam.


Experience exquisite fish cuisine with stunning views at Restaurant See Sicht on Lake Constance.

As the day came to a close, we took one last stroll along the Bodensee Promenade. The evening air was cool and refreshing, and the city lights sparkled on the water. We stopped to listen to a street musician playing traditional German music. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. I felt a deep sense of contentment and happiness, knowing that I was back in my hometown, surrounded by the beauty of Lake Constance and the love of my husband.

Back at our accommodation—we ended up finding a lovely eco-friendly guesthouse just outside of town—Liam and I discussed our plans for tomorrow. We're both excited to explore Meersburg Castle and the Zeppelin Museum, diving deeper into the history and culture of this beautiful region. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting Meersburg Castle, which I remember from school trips. It will be a new experience for Liam, and I can't wait to share it with him. I’m also excited about the prospect of enjoying a cocktail at the Blauer Engel Cocktail Bar after a day of sightseeing.

Today was a reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are those that take us back to our roots. I'm excited to see what the rest of our trip has in store, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my hometown with Liam.

The weather forecast for the coming week looks promising, with mostly cloudy days and mild temperatures. I'm glad I packed my comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen, although I did forget my sunglasses and a local SIM card. Note to self: remember those next time! Despite the few forgotten items, I feel well-prepared for our adventure, and I'm ready to embrace all that Lake Constance has to offer.

Tomorrow, we venture to Meersburg, and I can't wait to share more stories and experiences with you all. Stay tuned!