Winter Vacation in the Allgäu

WHAT INSPIRES US
Now, after the wild and wonderful days of winter, calm has returned to the valley. Balderschwang, this little hamlet, this mountain village in the Allgäu Alps, nestled in the heart of the Nagelfluh Nature Park, has once again lived up to its reputation as “Bavarian Siberia.” However, a mild March with its intense sunshine has melted the snow, and now we have two seasons in the valley for a few weeks. On the south-facing slopes, the ground is bare (snow-free), and the first spring flowers are peeking out; on the north-facing slopes and at higher elevations, snow still lies. I love this time of year—the time of firn and ski tours. Or, we hike up to the Siplinger Kopf and over to the Stillberg. There, it feels like spring—we can smell Mother Earth. Back in the valley, one more visit to my parents’ grave; the wooden cross is still missing—we’ll unscrew it before winter so it’ll last for many more years. A word of thanks, a short prayer to my ancestors. Without them, none of this would exist.

TIME FOR SILENCE - ST. ANTON PARISH CHURCH
Next door, a glimpse inside the newly renovated little mountain church. The village’s unmistakable landmark is the pointed church tower. It invites youto visit this small, remarkable place of worship. Here’s what I hope for you: “Yes, you read that right—I hope that when you’re here, you’ll take a peek inside and pause for a moment.” Enjoy the silence! It will give you strength. This village church has quite a few highlights. These include not only its ceiling and wall frescoes and the two side altars, but also the large choir cross as well as several paintings and statues. Some people also come here because it’s a place where they can find inner peace, reflect on their lives, and pray. In addition, there’s an opportunity to attend a church service almost every day.

THOUGHTS: LET THEM COME AND GO
Radio silence—does that still exist? A place where I’m not constantly reachable? A place where the speed of the Wi-Fi calls for patience. For years, this has been an extremely popular option. Here, cell phones are locked away in our safe and reappear on the day of departure, along with a piece of delicious Allgäu alpine cheese.

YOU'LL ENJOY THE SILENCE.