Lago di Garda, Italy (Lake Garda)

Every year the kids get two days off for Ascension and this year we traveled to Lago di Garda, Italy. It’s an easy flight into Milan and then an hour drive to the Lake. There are several towns to stay/visit while in the Lake Garda region. Our hotel was located in Sirmione, which is a darling town located on the tip of a peninsula in the lake. We were a good 20 minute walk to the castle area of Sirmione, which is where we explored the town, bought souvenirs, ate lots of gelato, and feasted upon Italian food. What’s not to love about a country where pizza, pasta, fresh olive oil and bread, are served in every restaurant? :)

One day we took a boat across the lake to another town called Malcesine. It boasts a Funivia that takes you to the top of a mountain and you can see for miles. The boat ride was a beautiful way to see just how gorgeous the area was. Unfortunately, as we docked in Malcesine, it started to rain on us. We opted to eat lunch first and let the rain pass. Another meal of pizza and pasta! We walked around town to find the funicular and endured another rain. It rained again as we ascended, and the fog was coming in as we reached the summit. The view would have been incredible had the weather cooperated. In all, it was a nice, relaxing vacation!

Monschau, Germany

On the recommendation of friends, we drove an hour and 45 minutes to Monschau, Germany. It’s a little Bavarian town and the perfect location for a day trip. First stop was the glass blowing factory where they also put on demonstrations. We sat in the front row and were amazed at the heat coming from the ovens! It was a good spot though as Nicholas was picked from the audience to blow a piece of glass as well! It was truly amazing to watch them make vases, small & large animals, bowls, etc. I could have sat there all day! :) After we purchased a green, white, and black snake for Nicholas, a dolphin necklace for Lindsey, and a swirled, red vase for us, we were off to explore the town. First via a 45 minute small train that took us around and then by foot.

Next, we were off to check out the alpine slide. That was an experience! It’s similar to a luge slide only you are sitting on a square base, not much bigger than your tush, with a brake you can pull to regulate the speed of the slide. Let’s just say in the US, people would sign a wavier and also wear helmets in case of injury! Lindsey and I rode the brake the whole way and I barely could enjoy the scenery for fear of crashing into a curve and tumbling down the mountain! I was not disappointed when both kids wanted to ride with Paul for their second trip. :) We went back to town for dinner of schnitzel, sausage, fries, and beer. The perfect end to a great day!