THE BAVARIAN CASTLES OF KING LUDWIG II, Guest Post by Ann Whitford Paul

Linderhof Castle, Bavaria.

Many thanks to my friend Ann Whitford Paul for sharing her visit to the Bavarian castles built by Ludwig II. Ann is a world traveler and a frequent contributor to The Intrepid Tourist.

A screen saver picture on my computer was my inspiration to visit the Bavarian castles, built by Ludwig II, also known as  Mad King Ludwig. Being shy, he was always uncomfortable ruling but enjoyed the perks and wealth that came with his position. He was passionate about art and architecture.

Although his reign lasted only 23 years, he left behind three castles, each unique and worth a visit. Although photos were not permitted inside you can get an idea of their style, each one radically different, from the outside photos. Tours are worth taking and in the smaller castles each lasts about 30 minutes

Fountain sculpture, Linderhof Castle.

The first castle I saw was Linderhof, a rococo-style castle, small by today’s standards with only one bedroom because Ludwig was so painfully shy, he preferred to be alone. As you can see from my photos, the setting is beautiful and wild. I loved walking up the many steps facing the castle to get the full view.

Courtyard, Neuschwanstein Castle.

However, I did not love walking up to see Neuschwanstein Castle built in the medieval style that was the inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella’s Castle. 

Neuschwanstein Castle

Horse drawn carriages will take one there for 8 euros a person. I, wanting to prove to that I could do it, started along the one mile and nearly straight up path, but on an uneven patch of gravel fell flat on my face. Want proof? 

After the fall.

Fortunately, no broken bones! But my walking wasn’t over. Inside this castle there were many stairs to climb.

Ann at Castle Hohenschwngau

Last, but certainly not least, was the grand Castle Hohenschwangau, the same size as the Palais Versailles in France. Although it was never completed, the rooms that were are opulent each with huge, different-styled chandeliers. I couldn’t help feel for the poor peasants who had to stand on tall ladders to light the hundreds of candles, and then later clean away the melted wax. By far the most breathtaking room was the grand Hall of Mirrors, bright with gold leaf and a full city block long.

I have seen other castles, but these Bavarian ones are so beautifully maintained, with almost totally original furnishings, paintings, and tapestries, they’re well worth the visit. The  surrounding scenic Alps, small quaint towns, and large lakes are an added plus. I was so inspired by the area’s history that I have been reading up on Ludwig II. He may have been mad, but he left three remarkable castles for future generations to admire and cherish.