Some of our group got up early today to do the 1 1/2 hour hike up to Neuschwanstein Castle. Those that didn't hike met Jean at 8:45 for a coach ride up to the castle parking lot. There is a lake in this small village with swans. Jody gave us our tickets to the castle, then we boarded the shuttle bus. We were dropped off near the walkway to St. Mary's Bridge. It gives a beautiful view of Neuschwanstein. I immediately headed through the forest path to the bridge. The view was indeed beautiful! After taking numerous photos, I head back down the path and followed the signs to the castle. Once there, we went into a "holding" area where we waited for our entry time to be called. Great crowd control!  We met our guide and were led through several rooms that were open to the public (many were not). We saw King Ludwig's sitting room, chapel, bedroom, reading room, grotto, opera hall and the kitchens. No photos were allowed, so I bought post cards in the small gift shop. The balcony area had great views of the lake below and the astle on the opposite hill-the yellow castle called Schloss Hohenschwangau. After the tour, I walked back down the hill instead of taking the shuttle. Horse-drawn carriages were taking people back also. There were several great views as I walked back down. Once at the bottom, we met Jody and she handed out sack lunches. I sat by the lake and watched people diving in from the rocks and the swans being fed by tourists. After our castle visit, we headed for our Luge experience. It was SO much fun! We sent several times!! That evening, I walked around town after our dinner. Tomorrow-Italy!!

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