Two trips to Germany

The German border opened up on May 15, allowing unfettered traffic to and from Luxembourg. R and I, being a bit stir-crazy after spending so much time flopping around not doing much, decided to brave the roads and see what there was to see. We drove to Mettlach on a Monday and had such a good time we went to Cochem less than a week later.

Germany is beautiful. The people seemed to adopt a shockingly laissez-faire attitude when it came to social distancing and mask-wearing, but it could be that we're just used to seeing the respectful and law-abiding Luxembourgers strictly adhering to the advice of the government and wearing masks everywhere. Whatever our perception, we gamely stood in line for ice cream in both towns, in fairly close proximity to others, with no ill effects. We enjoyed a schnitzel lunch in Cochem, and lovely views in both towns.

First, Mettlach:

Okay, this is actually Luxembourg, with Luxembourgish cows. But what a beautiful country!

Such a gorgeous view. This is the Sauer River.

Hairstyle courtesy of COVID quarantine.

Such a goof.

In Mettlach proper.

And then, Cochem:

An impressive castle on the hill - built in the 11th century.

The view from the castle grounds.

Another view - this is the Moselle River.

Vineyards!

And another view looking up!

Esch-sur-Sûre

There's nothing quite like hiking in Luxembourg. There are so many trails - in the woods, across highways, through farmers' fields, along village alleys.... They're all very well marked and easy to follow, mapped out and logical. They can be a few kilometres or many. You'll be blissfully hiking along, go around a bend, and suddenly be rewarded with a magnificent view of farmland, rolling hills, or centuries-old fortifications. I don't think I'll ever tire of it.

Esch-sur-Sûre is an area in northern Luxembourg with a beautiful lake and a quaint village. The "Sûre" of Esch-sur-Sûre is the river - it becomes the "Sauer" River in Germany. It's less than an hour's drive from our house in Luxembourg City, but seems a world away.