Fodor's Travel Talk Forums - lake constance/Bodensee/ Germany

Deedee, Investigate the delights of Meersburg. Take a look at: http://www.meersburg.de/02tourismus/...mus_index.html – click on the links to the right of the photos for a virtual tour of the town. When you’ve scrolled down click on “Weiter” for the next series of photos www.meersburg.de/baeren/index.htm – website of a Meersburg inn www.karenbrown.com/germany/gasthofzumbaren.html – same inn’s website in English From Meersburg, ride west along the shore of the Bodensee to Unteruhldingen. The town has a fascinating museum devoted to the prehistoric dwellers along the shore of the lake. In addition, there’s a recreation of a typical prehistoric village with its houses on stilts. From Unteruhldingen, turn north on a highly scenic road for about 4 miles to the village of Salem which is the home of an early 12th century Cistercian abbey, updated in the Baroque style in the 18th century. Part of the abbey has been rebuilt as a castle and has a truly imposing Kaisersaal (Emperor’s Hall) worth a visit. Continue on another 4 miles to Heiligenberg with its Renaissance castle that features the woodcarver’s skills in its ceiling and chapel interior. There’s also a stunning display of stained glass. Now, drive north about 2 ½ miles and turn right towards Wilhelmdorf continuing for about 15 miles just prior to Ravensburg. Follow signs to Weingarten, about 3 miles to the north of Ravensburg and visit the largest of Germany’s Baroque basilicas with its superb ceiling frescoes by Cosmar Asam, one of Germany’s foremost Baroque artisans. Take Rte B30 south to Ravensburg and the center of the town, the Marienplatz. The town square is surrounded by elegant and beautifully preserved medieval houses and commercial buildings such as the Leatherworkers Guildhouse (Lederhaus), Corn Exchange (Kornhaus) and the Weighing Office (Waaghaus). Look for the Mehlsack, a tower with 240 steps that affords a spectacular view over the Bodensee to the Alpine range beyond. Don’t make the effort of climbing the steps unless it’s a spectacularly clear day! From Ravensburg drive southwest on Rte B30 about 12 miles to Friedrichshaven. The city has little of historic interest since it was severely damaged in World War II however it has a shoreside promenade that offers some attractive views. From Friedrichshaven, drive east along the lakeshore for about 20 miles to Lindau, a charming small city situated on an island (accessible by causeway). Maximilianstrasse, the main street, is in the middle of the island and is highly picturesque with its old houses and inns. Drive along the southern shore of the island to the harbor (Hafen) and stop at the Romerschanze, a view point where you can see a good part of the German and Swiss Alpine range including Switzerland’s Santis and Altmann mountains and Germany’s Kanisfluh, the Hoher Freschen and the Drie Schwestern. You can then return to Meersburg along t