A Perfect Day in Salzburg

As the train pulled up to Salzburg and the trees cleared, we got a stunning view of the Hohensalzburg Fortress, this started our love and fascination of this beautiful city. We knew we were about to experience an unforgettable day. Right off the train we headed toward the castle, stopping only for some Mozartkugels, a handmade specialty chocolate specific to Austria (Mozart's birthplace) whose recipe has been passed down since 1890. While savoring our treats, we walked over to where the action seemed to be and happened upon this adorable family. I acted like I was taking a picture of the puppeteer but come on, I had to get this family in their It's-a-small-world like attire. Since it was Easter weekend, we were surrounded by many people dressed in this tradtional manner.

 Walking a little further we came to the Residenzplatz, where we of course had to reenact I have Confidence in Me from the Sound of Music and then pay our tribute to the Mozart Statue.

Then wanting to get a better look at the Dom Cathedral we walked around to the front. A service was just starting so we fought the crowds to get inside and hear a beautiful choral number in German.

Back out on the square we gazed up to the Hohensalzburg Fortress and knew it was time to make the ascent. While others paid to go up on the tram, we took the road less traveled and walked up the steep and often slippery trail to the top (this decision was primarily based on the fact that Harper had fallen asleep in the stroller and we didn't want to wake her). It was a short but strenuous hike up, but at least we got some pictures along the way.

Inside the castle we took the tour to the observation deck where we could see the entire city and the valley leading up to the Bavarian Alps. 

We also hit up the marionette museum inside the castle, which proved to be more creepy that friendly, but interesting none the less.

 The walk down from the castle was an adventure of slipping and sliding, but definitely less work than getting up and of course, more time to take some pictures of the city below.

Once down we were in need of some refreshment, so we dined in a market area on a huge handmade pretzel and some gelato, double scoops of course.

 We then headed off to Mirabell Gardens, but got side tracked by the perfect weather and the banks of the Salzach River. We joined the other sunbathers and relaxed on the grass while Luke skipped rocks.

Back on track, we strolled over to Mirabell Gardens, to yet again be completely taken back. Beautiful manicured gardens as far as the eye could see. 

Salzburg proved to be the highlight of our Baverian trip. Both Rob and I fell in love with the city and cannot wait to return again. But until then, so long, farewell, au revoir, auf Wiedersehen!