Exploring My Roots at Lake Constance

A Day of History and High-Flying Dreams

Today was a journey through time, a blend of medieval history and the innovative spirit of the Zeppelin era. Nestled on the shores of Lake Constance, Meersburg is a town that whispers tales of centuries past, and I was eager to listen. Liam and I were ready to explore every nook and cranny, from ancient castles to fascinating museums, and of course, to indulge in the local cuisine.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Gasthaus Seeschau. This charming guesthouse, located close to the lake, is known for its traditional German fare. I enjoyed a simple yet satisfying meal of fresh bread, local cheeses, and strong coffee, while Liam opted for a more substantial plate of sausages and eggs. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it the perfect start to our day. It reminded me of the breakfasts my Oma used to make, filling the kitchen with warmth and the aroma of freshly baked bread.


Discover authentic German cuisine at Gasthaus Seeschau by Lake Constance - where tradition meets stunning lakeside views.

Sometimes, the best journeys are those that connect us to our past, reminding us of where we come from and the stories that shape us.

Fueled and ready, our first stop was the majestic Meersburg Castle. As we approached, the castle's imposing structure, perched high above the town, was breathtaking. Known as the Alte Burg (Old Castle), it's considered one of the oldest inhabited castles in Germany, with its central tower dating back to the 7th century. The sheer age of the place was incredible; I could almost feel the weight of history as we walked through the ancient stone corridors.


Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Meersburg Castle, a captivating landmark overlooking Lake Constance in Germany.

The castle's history is rich and complex. Legend has it that the Merovingian King Dagobert I built the Dagobertturm (Dagobert's Tower) around 630 AD. While the earliest written mention of the castle is from 1113, the massive stones at the base of the tower hint at its ancient origins. Over the centuries, Meersburg Castle served as the seat of the Prince-Bishops of Constance, playing a crucial role in regional politics and power struggles. One particularly gruesome story I learned was about a mayor who was lured into a trap by a prince-bishop for rebelling and was drowned in Lake Constance!

We explored the various rooms and chambers, each filled with artifacts and exhibits that painted a vivid picture of medieval life. From the armory to the great hall, every corner of the castle had a story to tell. I was particularly fascinated by the room where Annette von Droste-Hülshoff, a famous German poet, lived and worked in the 19th century. Her presence seemed to linger in the air, adding a touch of literary magic to the castle's atmosphere. Liam was captivated by the defensive architecture, marveling at the ingenious ways the castle had been fortified against attacks. It was easy to imagine knights and soldiers defending the castle walls, protecting their home from invaders.

Leaving the castle, we made our way to the Zeppelin Museum Meersburg, a stark contrast to the medieval setting we had just left. This small, privately-owned museum is a hidden gem, dedicated to the history of Zeppelin airships. It was founded in 1989 by Heinz Urban and is located in the basement of an old building. The museum is packed with artifacts, including components, uniforms, letters, and books from the Zeppelin era (1900-1937).


Explore the Zeppelin Museum in Meersburg, a unique attraction showcasing the history of airships and their impact on aviation.

The museum may be small, but it's filled with fascinating exhibits. We watched a film about the history of Zeppelins, from their early beginnings to their tragic end with the Hindenburg disaster. I was struck by the ingenuity and innovation that went into these airships, as well as the luxury and glamour that surrounded them. The museum also had original telegraph and Morse broadcasts from around 1900, as well as cutlery and porcelain from the LZ 127, each piece uniquely designed because of space constraints. Liam, ever the engineer, was engrossed in the technical aspects of the Zeppelins, examining the engines, navigation systems, and structural components. He was impressed by the level of detail and the advanced technology for the time.

After immersing ourselves in history and innovation, it was time for lunch. We chose Restaurant Schwedenschenke, a charming spot known for its Swabian cuisine. The restaurant is set inside a large park. I decided to try the wiener schnitzel, while Liam went for the barley risotto. Both dishes were delicious, showcasing the hearty and flavorful nature of Swabian cooking. For dessert, we shared a mango and coconut flake creation that transported me back to my childhood summers spent with Oma.


Experience exquisite local cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Restaurant Schwedenschenke on Mainau Island.

With our appetites satisfied, we decided to explore the town a bit more. Meersburg is a picturesque town with cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and stunning views of Lake Constance. We strolled along the promenade, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the sunshine. The town was bustling with tourists and locals alike, all enjoying the beautiful day. We stopped at a few shops, browsing the local crafts and souvenirs. I picked up a small, hand-painted ceramic bird as a memento of our visit, while Liam found a vintage postcard of Meersburg to add to his collection.

As evening approached, we sought out Blauer Engel Cocktail Bar for a pre-dinner drink. This cozy bar is known for its expertly crafted cocktails and relaxed atmosphere. I ordered a classic gin and tonic, while Liam opted for a local beer. The bar was dimly lit and filled with the murmur of conversation, creating a welcoming and intimate ambiance. It was the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. As we sipped our drinks, we chatted about our favorite moments of the day, reminiscing about the castle, the Zeppelins, and the delicious food.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Konstanz at Blauer Engel Cocktail Bar, known for its expertly crafted cocktails and inviting atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose Tolle Knolle, a restaurant specializing in potato-based dishes. As a child, I always loved Oma’s potato dumplings, so I felt right at home. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with wooden tables, warm lighting, and friendly staff. I ordered the Ofenkartoffel (baked potato) with quark and salad, while Liam went for the Kartoffelgratin (potato gratin) with meat. Both dishes were hearty and delicious, showcasing the versatility of the humble potato. The portions were generous, and we left feeling completely satisfied.


Experience authentic German cuisine at Tolle Knolle in Konstanz, where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.

As we walked back to our accommodation, the town was quiet and peaceful. The stars were out, and the lake was shimmering in the moonlight. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. I felt grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with my roots and share this beautiful place with Liam. Meersburg had exceeded all my expectations, and I couldn't wait to see what tomorrow would bring. Tomorrow, we're off to Konstanz! We plan to visit SEA LIFE Konstanz and take a boat trip on Lake Constance. I'm particularly excited about SEA LIFE, as I've always been fascinated by marine life. Liam is looking forward to the boat trip, as he loves being on the water. We also plan to check out some local shops for souvenirs. I'm hoping to find a nice piece of jewelry, while Liam is on the lookout for a unique postcard.

Before drifting off to sleep, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the medieval majesty of Meersburg Castle to the innovative spirit of the Zeppelin Museum, every moment had been a journey through time. The delicious food, the charming town, and the company of my wonderful husband had made it a day to remember. As I closed my eyes, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that our adventure was just beginning.