Overview: Neuschwanstein Castle and Schloss Linderhof – both nestled in the incomparable beauty of Germany’s Bavarian region – a “must see” on any European visit!  Products of a king who was at once mysterious and lonely, these castles never fail to evoke imaginings of opulence and festivity.  Arrival with reserved tickets guarantees admission to both sites on days packed with international visitors.  

Seven weeks after King Ludwig’s death from as yet unrevealed causes, the Neuschwanstein Castle was opened to the public.  The shy king had built the castle to withdraw from public life – not vast numbers of people come to view his private refuge.  The castle, constructed to shelter Ludwig and his favorite poet-composer Richard Wagner, became Ludwig’s symbol of sovereignty as Bavaria was forced into political insignificance. 

Schloss Linderhof – really a palace, as opposed to a castle – was originally a childhood hunting lodge belonging to Ludwig’s father.  Sentimental attachment led Ludwig to reconstruct the buildings instead of tearing them down. As a result, the “King’s Cottage” became the “Alpine Hut Building” and, eventually evolved into the present day “Royal Villa” known as Schloss Linderhof.  It is the only large palace King Ludwig II lived to see completed. 

Leisurely drives through the Bavarian countryside allow our guests to enjoy the varied landscape – from majestic mountains to farming villages and fields with haystacks and tiny barns.  Visit the painted town of Oberammergau, home of the world-famous Passion Play, with time for photos and souvenirs. 

Return to points of origin about 11 p.m.