For a German day trip from Colmar would anyone recommend Freiburg? We're looking for a quintessential German experience a short driving distance from Colmar (we'll have rental car for the Route Des Vines). Anyone been there? The pictures look acceptable. There are also lots of smaller towns sprinkled around there? Are any of those better than Frieiburg?
(Back Story: We were planning on three days in Eastern Bavaria but have now shelved that for another trip in two years because Neuschwanstein castle will have scaffolding throughout 2012.) Your feedback is always mighty appreciated. Pete
Freiburg is worth seeing especially if you are already close to it. It is a picturesque town. Nice cathedral. There is a cave in the cliff, inside is an elevator and it will take you up to the restaurant which is on the cliff. The restaurant also has a garden with beautiful views of the town. It has been 13 years since I was there so these are my memories of Freiburg.
We spent a very lovely evening and day in Freiburg in August 2010. I recommend it highly. Suggestions: Take the cable car to the top of the Schlossberg (hill overlooking the city - you can't miss it. Wander around on the extensive walking paths, then climb the observation tower. Hike or take th cable car back down, then just wander the streets. Try to go on a market day, it's a really good one with lots of local and sustainable products. Go to an outdoor wine bar - they all do tasting flights of local wines. They are like a beer garden but wine is more popular there. We would gladly spend more time there relaxing, but a day is enough for sightseeing. The other thing I wanted to do but couldn't fit in was a visit to the Black Forest outdoor museum (historical village recreation). Your kids might enjoy that. BTW, I've been enjoying following your planning process through your sPecific and insightful questions. Sounds like you're making some excellent decisions, hope you have a great trip.
Freiburg is a nice small city, but also triberg, if you have a car. It is a drive through the countryside and to see large cuckoo clock and the waterfalls. It is a small area, but the drive is beautiful. We have friends in Lahr, small, but cute village. Stop at Heitzmann Bakery! Also, Heidelberg is a couple hours away. There is an amusement park near Lahr, if you are intersted in that with a modern hotel and bar.