Germany

Tagging Along to "Tag, You're It"

Tuesday, May 14, 2013 by Kasey Austin

 

Growing up in the adventure travel business has its perks. My father, Dan Austin, director of Austin-Lehman Adventures bought into Backcountry Bicycle Tours after taking a biking adventure in the Tetons himself, when I was six years old. From there, I led a life in Montana that was a bit different from that of my peers, although the realization of that fact didn’t hit me until I grew older. At seven, I tagged along on our company’s Yellowstone Family Tours, meeting other children and families lucky enough to immerse themselves in the world of luxury travel, learning of lives and cultures much different than my own in my beautiful backyard. By ten, I tagged along with my dad and brother southwards to the friendly lands of Costa Rica, a Mecca for families with its smiling Ticos and its “wow-inducing” wildlife. From there, I traveled along openly and willing with my dad, my partner in travel, my adventure planner, to destinations far and wide: Peru, Alaska, Germany, Ecuador, Holland, Galapagos Islands, and all over the western United States. We traveled for business, we traveled to see what lie beyond the mountains of Montana, we traveled to learn about cultures different than our own, but most of all, we traveled for the love of adventure.

Costa Rica Family Austin-Lehman Family Adventure

All these trips share at least one thing in common, and that is my dad’s willingness to plan these adventures and his excitement in sharing the world with my brother and me. What better way to learn about people, places, relationships, connections, and cultures! This just isn’t something that can be experienced in a classroom (and this is coming from someone with a degree in Education!) As it gets easier in our schools to bring the globe to a classroom with modern technology, you just can’t replace an authentic, hands-on cultural experience somewhere outside your comfort zone. My brother and I are some of the few Montanans I’ve found who have had the fortune of learning on the road…and we’re lucky enough to keep up with this lifestyle today.

After graduating from the University of Montana in 2011, I immediately accepted an offer to work full time for the family business, despite obtaining a degree that didn’t exactly fit into the world of tourism (a backup plan is always a good thing right?) In my position in Operations I not only have the pleasure of working one on one with ALA’s top notch guide team, but I also work closely with our partners across the globe, creating and maintaining contracts and serving as the “point person” for inquiries, problems, help, and advice when it comes to creating the perfect adventure for our guests. Throughout my few years of working for ALA, I’ve still had the fortune of continuing my travels, more so now than ever – scouting new destinations, attending conferences, leading guide trainings outside of the United States, and even leading a trip or two overseas, sometimes with, sometimes without my dad.

Austin-Lehman Adventures

Recently we received a visit to our Montana office from a representative of Tourism Tasmania, Karen Stotz. (If you’re not sure of where Tasmania is (like I didn’t when I first met Karen) take a peek at a map of Australia, and then look south…) While sharing with us a presentation of the beautiful state of Tasmania, Karen mentioned a conference that takes place in Australia annually, the Australian Tourism Exchange, and informed us that a familiarization trip of the area could take place before or after the conference. Before I could get two words in edge wise, my dad shot in, claiming that we would be there and all correspondence for details of the trip would come through me, the trip planner. Me? Me?! The daughter who follows her dad on his travels worldwide, letting him do all of the planning?! Alright, this could be interesting. Challenge accepted!

Stay tuned for my next post to find out about planning and executing our Australia trip!

Kasey

Germany's Romantic Road

Monday, March 4, 2013 by Ron Van Dijk

Having lived in Heidelberg for 16 years through the 1980´s and 90´s, I am often asked which regions to travel to in order to find authentic German culture. While there are many to choose from, the Romantic Road is most certainly one which I will recommend. Running from the Alps and fairy-tale castle at Neuschwanstein to the River Main in central Germany, the Romantic Road is Germany’s best known and most popular tourist route. The name expresses what you’ll feel on seeing the medieval towns and castles as you’re being transported back in time. While the southern part of the route is dominated by dramatic mountain scenery, it is especially the northern stretch which opens up a wealth of history, art and culture. Bustling medieval towns line the route like a string of rare gems. Nördlingen, Dinkelsbühl and Rothenburg with their impressive buildings have preserved their original appearance over the centuries and constitute some of my favorite places in Germany.


Nördlingen lies in the middle of the Ries crater, the best-researched meteorite crater in the world. Traders and craftsmen settled here, and a trade fair for goods from distant lands was established in 1219, which put the town in second place only to Frankfurt. The town built its encircling wall in the 14th century, and its towers and gateways are still preserved today. This golden age in the town’s history also saw the construction of its major buildings, most of them designed as trading halls and warehouses, but also included magnificent patrician houses and the Late Gothic parish church of St. George. Every night, even now, the call of the watchmen can be heard from the tower, who are the last members of their profession anywhere in Germany: “So, G’sell, so!” which means as much as “All’s well, fellows, all’s well”.

Nördlingen rapidly lost its importance in the Wars of Religion in the 16th and 17th centuries, and by the time the Thirty Years’ War ended in 1648 it was not only reduced to poverty but had also lost more than half of its population through death or emigration. Thus there was no need to erect any new buildings for several centuries after that. This also explains why the town has retained much of its medieval architecture. In fact, the same explanation is true for most of the towns in this part of Germany.



Take for instance Dinkelsbühl. It is a town where the past is at one with the present. As you walk through the green belt surrounding the old town, the centuries begin to merge. The best view of Dinkelsbühl is from above. After climbing to the top, the tower of St. George’s Minster offers a panoramic view over the roofs of the old town and the idyllic river valley. The Minster is around 500 years old while the town fortifications are even older. Indeed, many of the houses have survived numerous generations. Even more important, however, is the fact that these buildings are still alive today. In them are families, shops, workshops, cafés and restaurants: sometimes closely packed together in a small lane, sometimes around a square. Up until 1806 this was a Free Imperial Town (practically an independent state with its own rules and laws).

And then there is Rothenburg, one of the oldest towns on the Romantic Road. It overlooks from its rocky crag four bends in the Tauber river. The town is both picturesque and unspoiled. Once behind the ramparts in the car-less central enclave, you are faced with the ancient houses, wrought-iron street signs, fountains and narrow, cobbled lanes, as if a time-warp plunged you back into the middle of the 16th century.



During the Thirty Year War (between the Protestants and the Catholics), the Protestant town of Rothenburg was about to be raised to the ground by the Imperial army commanded by General Tilly. All pleas for mercy had been rejected, when the mayor as a last resort offered the general a goblet of the very best local wine… and a miracle occurred. Tilly’s heart warmed up and he offered a way out. He would spare the town if a local could empty in a single draft a 6-pint mug of the same wine, equaling four bottles of wine. A former mayor named Nusch, who obviously had a great stomach, succeeded and Rothenburg was saved. This is reenacted every year during a big festival…, but I don’t think anyone has been able to follow Nusch in his footsteps (although it is somewhat doubtful he walked after his feat).
North of Rothenburg, the idyllic Tauber Valley opens up a whole other world, which can best be explored on bicycle. The “Klassiker” (Classic) bike trail is a two-day outing along the river, covering 60 miles/100 km from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Wertheim and the Main River. Known as the “Liebliches Taubertal”, the Lovely Tauber Valley region is absolutely delightful, offering scenic, cultural as well as culinary highlights. The clean, bright streams in the Tauber Valley are famous for their trout, served at inns all along the valley. The Tauber Valley lamb is also top-notch. And, of course, the local wines are the perfect accompaniment: Müller-Thurgau, Silvaner and Schwarzriesling, as well as local favorites such as Dornfelder. Among the four well-known breweries in the region are the Distelhäuser and Spessart, with special country brews.

So what are you waiting for? Los geht’s! (Off you go!)
 

The Mosel: History, Riding, & Riesling

Friday, August 31, 2012 by Mindy Vanderhoof

 

I believe that I have a German soul, not just because that is where 75% of my family heritage comes from, but because there is no other place on earth that I feel more myself!  I love Germany.  I love the people and the culture and the geography!  This is a country of huge metropolitan cities, rolling country side hills, and a world renowned river, the Rhine. 

Personally, I like the path less traveled for my adventures and the Mosel River, a tributary of the Rhine, provides the perfect back drop for fantastic Germany bike tours.  The Mosel will guide you through quaint villages, historically significant artifact sites, and one of Germany’s 13 abundant wine growing regions!

This area is most well known for producing crisp Rieslings, a wine best known for its balance between fruit, floral, and mineral flavors.  You can find a Riesling for almost any pallet; they range from sweet to dry to sparkling, and can be consumed at a young age, which provides clear taste delineations, or aged, around 10 years old the wine will have a very harmonious taste structure.

The next time you are looking for multifaceted biking tour, consider the Mosel Region in Germany!  There is so much to offer, and there is hardly a better way to end an active day than by enjoying the scenery and local glass of wine.

Your Friendly Travel Expert,

Mindy Teini

Village hop along Germany’s fabled Romantic Road

Friday, August 10, 2012 by Patrick Tigue

Travel the Romantic Roads of Germany

ALA-EuroBike - Bike tour along Mosel River in Germany - Card 8 A - 72 dpi-0784 - 72 dpi

The Romantic Road of Germany was a route created in 1950, as a desperate attempt for Germany to rebuild their tourism. Original visitors were mainly families and friends of the American Soldiers who were based in Southern Germany.  This route, although a newer innovation, passes neatly through historical and medieval towns and points of interests, which has raised foreign interest and touristic appeal for over 62 years now.  The trail from Würzburg to Füssen is a must experience activity during your Europe Adventure Vacation.  What better way to explore this trek through time then upon two wheels, enjoying a relaxing ride through history as you breath in the fresh air and soak up the stories of time. 

ALA-EuroBike - Bike tour along Mosel River in Germany - Card 8 A - 72 dpi-0027 - 72 dpi

Your Europe Bike Trip with Austin Lehman through the Romantic Road will begin in Nördlingen. This is the only remaining walled medieval town in Germany.  Less crowded then the other two major towns makes Nördlingen an appealing place to visit.  The interest around this city only begins with the fact that it is built in the crater of a meteorite with a tower created of the rock that originally formed the massive crater.  Here you can also explore crooked streets, a 14th century wall, and retreat at the end of the day to your beautiful hotel with modern accommodations.  Linked to the historic wing of the monastery church, the NH Klösterle Nördlingen is located in the center of the old town on the Romantic Road and is the perfect location for a peaceful slumber.  

Germany Family Vacation 4

The next location on your adventure vacation itinerary will include a saunter through Dinkelsbühl, and a nice relaxing ride through pastures and fields of sunflowers to the town of Rothenburg.  Activities also include watching a falcon flight show at the Schillingsfürst Castle, and a nice lunch at the quaint café in front.  When you arrive in Rothenburg you will be in awe of the vibrant cliff-side gardens, amazing art, and fascinating museums.  Stroll through the city during your night tour to learn a bit more about the town, and retreat at the end of the evening to Hotel Markusturm.  A historical customs house back in 1264, Hotel Markusturm is an enchanting location in a medieval town. Eight centuries later, it has been transformed into a hotel for visitors from all over the world.

ALA-EuroBike - Bike tour along Mosel River in Germany - Card 8 A - -0772 - 300 dpi

After leaving the large town of Rotherburg you will then visit another one of the largest towns at Bad Mergentheim.  With its’ days dated back to the Roman era, this spa resort town is a must see marvel when riding the Romantic Roads.  From stories of nights and rebellion to relaxing in 5-star resorts, you have never felt as good as you will in Bad Mergentheim. Next in the town of Wertheim you will pedal beneath a thick forest canopy along the meandering path of the Tauber River.  This medieval village captures the Viking spirit with its’ glassworks, Franconian wine, and history of castles and fortresses.

ALA-EuroBike - Bike tour along Mosel River in Germany - Card 8 B - -1834 - 300 dpi

Your Austin Lehman Adventure will finish off your Europe Bike Trip in the town of Frankfurt.  This is the main metropolis and financial and trade city with some hustle and bustle to get your gears going after your peaceful and relaxing vacation.  Bask in the vastness of the skyscrapers, and find refuge in a local pub.  Explore the history of the city and visit the Kaiserdom.  You may even want to hang out a couple days after your tour to try some brauts and brews at Octoberfest!  A perfect finish to a perfect adventure vacation with Austin Lehman Adventures. 

Romantic Road Bike Tour 5

Check out more pictures from our Romantic Road Bike Tour through Germany on our Pinterest account by clicking here-- Romantic Road Bike Tour

Host City Spotlight: Trier, Germany

Sunday, July 22, 2012 by Mindy Vanderhoof

  

As the Seat of Government for the Western Roman Empire, “holy city”, catholic stronghold, and university town, Trier has played many roles in its long history.  Dating back to 5000 BC, this small medieval village is located in the Mosel region of Germany, nestled in between the borders of Germany, France and Liechtenstein.  This area has suffered through wars and conquests, triumphed with modernization, survived bombings during its term as a Brown Shirt stronghold during both world wars, and has currently found its place as a central European university city.

This region is stacked to the brim with ruins from the Roman Empire, including cathedrals, roman baths, and the remnants of city walls, all of which are protected by UNESCO.  The best place for a new visitor to start is at the Porta Nigra, a gate into the city which dates back to about AD 180, and the Roman occupation of that area.  There are also impressive archaeological museums housing the most comprehensive exhibits about civilization, economy, religion, and art from the first 400 years of the Common Era in Germany.

Another point of interest is the Karl Marx House; the house contains a permanent exhibit “Karl Marx (1818-1883), Life – Work – Influence up to the Present”.   Here you will learn about the German philosopher/economist/ socialist, and his theories, beliefs, and influences as well as the effects he has had on our current global political/social movements.

For those who don’t have an itch for museums, Trier also boasts a wonderful main marker area, which acts as a gateway to the Cathedral and the Jewish Quarter.  This is also a great city to indulge in cycling tours before meeting the group!

 With so much history, Trier is the perfect place to explore before one of your German bike tours.

Your friendy travel expert,

Mindy Teini

Cycling in Germany

Wednesday, June 27, 2012 by Mindy Vanderhoof

When Talking about European Vacations my head immediately goes to Germany. Not only did my family originate there, which gives it special draw for me, but I feel most at home when I am there! Austin-Lehman offers to cycling tours that take you through the heart of Germany, both follow magnificent rivers, making the cycling easy and enjoyable, the weather idyllic, and the scenery breathtaking!

The first is Germany: Mosel Valley. This is one of our easiest biking tours in Europe, making it perfect for families! Journey along the sparkling waters of the Mosel River as you relax in Germany's abundant wine growing region. Pedaling through the vine covered hills you will follow paths that lead to grand castles, lively market towns, and unknown wine village gems. Discover Germany's fascinating Roman past, taste new wines, and marvel in serene pleasure at the Mosel's timeless charm, oh, and don’t forget the gelato!

The second trip, Germany: Romantic Roads is a little more challenging. Forget ancient folklore as you saddle up for an enchanting visit to Germany's Rhine River as here you will see it all come to life!  One after another you will discover some of Germany’s most delightful towns. Enjoy quiet country roads and bicycle paths, visit wonderful castles and churches and meet the charming people who make this region feel like home.

Austin-Lehman Adventures prides itself on first class customer service, local guides and amazing adventures on all our cycling tours. We leave no stone unturned in our quest to make your vacation one you will never forget. Our motto is "the hardest part is going home" and we strive every day to live up to it! So if you are looking for the best – on all levels, the good news is you’ve arrived!

I hope this entices you to join us on a German excursion this season; there really is no place like it!

Your Friendly Travel Expert,

Mindy (Vanderhoof) Teini

Magic of the Mosel

Friday, June 8, 2012 by Kasey Austin

Do you ever have one of those days when you look out the window, taking a break from your computer, only to let your mind wander off to some faraway place? Well, that just happened to me (shh, don’t tell the boss!), and I traveled back to the Mosel River Valley of Germany, one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet!

The main memory that floated into my mind when drifting back to my Mosel Valley trip were the long stretches of flat bike paths connecting quaint German towns interspersed along the calmly flowing Mosel River. (Did I mention that the wind was at my back the whole way too?!) I picture myself lazily pedaling along miles of paths amongst endless, terraced grape vine plots, stopping in each town along the way to snack on Pommes Frites (French fries) with mayo (a very popular appetizer in Germany) and taking a few photographs of the locals and unique architecture.

Germany Bike Tours

 But oh, there is so much more for the biker buff out there, who wants just a little more than the flat valley floor. Remember when I mentioned “terraced” hills? Your guides provide you with any number of extensions each day that include heart-pumping hill action, breathtaking vistas extending as far as the eye can see, and winding down hills taking you back to the main Mosel River paths. If you want variety in the slope of your bike path, Germany is the ultimate European Vacation!

Germany Bike Tours

To sum it all up, Germany to me is the absolute perfect biking destination for not only adults but families too! There is complete variety in the grade of the bike paths and road extensions so you can choose the difficulty of your vacation. Germany bike tours are an Austin-Lehman specialty and when you take me up on my suggestion of cycling around this beautiful European country, don’t forget to take in the beauty of the river valley, sip the variety of German wines, and eat a few Pommes Frites for me!

See you on your next adventure!

 

Kasey Austin

What’s so good about cycling in Mosel Valley, Germany?

Thursday, April 19, 2012 by Ron Van Dijk

 

 
The sparkling waters of the Mosel are the perfect background for cycling tours through Germany’s most abundant wine growing region. You don’t need to be a wine lover to enjoy this European vacation. On the contrary: it is also the perfect environment for family adventure vacations. Why’s that? The gentle riverside bike paths are flat, easy & safe. Flat because the path stays down in the valley. Easy because all you need to do is follow the path along the river as you pass one village after the next. Safe because the paths keep you separated from motorized vehicles. Should you want to test your legs and stamina: the river will always be flanked on each side by steep vineyard covered hills and all you need to do is simply leave the river in search for more challenging rides.
 
The most beautiful stretch of river can be found between the towns of Trier and Koblenz. Make sure you cycle from Trier to Koblenz, and not the other way around. The reasons are two-fold: you’ll be going down the river, and it is likely that the prevailing winds will be in your back. What more can you ask for?
 
Trier is situated near the Luxembourg border, it is the oldest city in Germany (founded in 16 BC by the Roman Emperor Augustus), and became the official Roman capital of the western territories, which included Gaul (France), Spain, Germania and Britain. Be sure to visit the Roman remains in town, most notably the Porta Nigra (the old town gate), the Kaiserthermen (Imperial baths) and the amphitheater which could seat 20,000 spectators. There’s plenty of other things to see in town (the old town center, the Romanesque cathedral, the Rhineland Museum with its Roman antiquities, the Karl Marx House/Museum where the socialist theoretician was born). My recommendation therefore
is: spend a day in Trier before you head out on your bike.
 
Four days of leisurely cycling will lead you from one wine village to another, along ruined castles and some castles that are still in perfect shape. Burg Eltz as well as the castle in Cochem are highlights not to be missed.
 
Bernkastel-Kues, Zell, Piesport, Trittenheim, Kröv are some of the names which will sound familiar to those who occasionally (or often!) drink German wines. The wine from each village has its own character. The Mosel region used to specialize primarily in sweet wines (Spätlese, Auslese), but in recent years the wine growers have adapted their vinification methods to also allow for the production of dry wines. This region makes for excellent wine tasting tours and the predominant grape is the Riesling. Whose wonderful fruitiness makes it a very pleasant and easy companion for your cycling tour.
 
Once you reach the town of Koblenz at the confluence of the Mosel and the Rhine rivers, you will have reached your destination. From here, speedy trains can take you anywhere in Germany. To find out more information on Germany bike tours visit our Mosel Valley trip page
 
your friendly European vacation expert,
 
Ron Van Dijk

Adventure Vacations for the Gourmet Foodie in You

Thursday, April 5, 2012 by Tour Support Team

While all of our adventure vacations are filled with some sort of physical activity such as biking, hiking and kayaking, we don’t want all the foodies out there to think we forgot them. In fact, as most anyone who has been on our trips will tell you, the food is incredible.

No matter which country or which adventure, our guests start out the day with a high energy breakfast to get them ready to go experience all the thrills of their destination. Each evening will find them back dining on deliciously prepared campfire vittles or five star gourmet fare. And many of our European vacations will also find adults sipping fine wines from the best regions of wine country.

Our gourmet adventures are combined with the best of our biking and hiking vacations. Our adventurers may choose the gourmet fare of wine regions in California, Chile/Argentina or the rich, delectable foods of Italy, France and Germany. Some of our adventures even include cooking classes to get you started making your own gourmet goodies.

Stop by our website to find out more about gourmet adventures to your choice of destination and get started planning your trip of a lifetime today.
 

Step Back into Germany’s Medieval Times

Wednesday, April 4, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Germany’s Romantic Road, the trade route during the middle ages, is like traveling back in time to the medieval era. The route surprisingly has been able to retain its character so that visitors can journey to the untouched and forgotten countryside.

While on our cycling tour, pedal through the arched gateways with guard towers to explore tiny villages with their old world charm. They offer beautiful historical buildings now turned into hotels, gothic cathedrals and much more. Visit a gorgeous palace with the best Baroque garden in Germany while you are in the thinly populated Rothenburg - Weikersheim region. It’s a vibrant village with incredible art and an amusing criminal museum.

When biking through the picture perfect streets of Nordlingen, stop to explore the 14th century walls and half-timbered houses. Our cycling tours take you through the thick forests along the Tauber River and give you an experience of being close to nature all while enjoying its unique flora and fauna. Explore the villages at your own pace and take a guided stroll with a spirited night watchman in Rothenburg. You’ll find evenings enjoyable in your cozy room as you sip delicious home brewed beer.

This European vacation is one of a kind, and its uniqueness makes it completely worth taking. You will also find that investing your trust and time in our adventure vacation packages will have you wanting to come back for vacation adventures with us over and over again.
 

Our Favorite Cycling Tours

Monday, April 2, 2012 by Tour Support Team

When guests are first trying to decide on their destination, we are often asked which one of our cycling tours is the best. Frankly, they all are. We put a lot of time and effort into planning and arranging the locations, activities and accommodations for our bike adventure vacation packages. That’s what adventure travel companies such as ours are all about – to handle every detail of your vacation so that you can sit back, and well, enjoy the ride.

Many travelers spend so much time planning and preparing for their vacations that by the time they get back home, they need a vacation from their vacation. That’s not what happens on an Austin-Lehman adventure at all. Our friendly and professional guides give you the experience of a lifetime so you just need to bring yourself, friends or family and a camera. We take care of every little element in our 17 biking tours.  Our cycling adventures are for singles, couples and families and all skill levels.

Our biking vacations will take you to South Dakota or various locales in Europe including Austria, Denmark, France, Italy, Germany, Spain or Holland. We even have a biking vacation in the South American wine country of Chile and Argentina.

No matter which bike adventure you choose, we are here to make your vacation memories last a lifetime.   
 

Keeping the Romance on Romantic Road

Sunday, April 1, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Germany's Romantic Road, the trade route of the medieval era, still retains its original old world splendor. This unique European vacation combines romance, history, adventure and sightseeing all in one single trip.

The magnificent castles, medieval towns with city walls and picturesque scenery, unspoiled nature, half- timbered houses are all extremely attractive for travelers visiting the area. Week long cycling tours from Nordlingen to Wertheim on this middle ages trade route will seem too short once you are there.

Medieval town hopping across the fabled route is an experience full of surprises. Plan it with your partner or take a trip with your entire family. Our adventure vacation packages offer something for everyone. Pedal alongside enchanting vineyards, rolling hills and clear waters en route to the Bavarian Alps. Once you reach there, take a guided tour of the lavish interiors and modern technologies of the fairy tale like Neuschwanstein castle.

Biking to the vibrant village of Rothenberg located on a cliff side will leave you breathless with enchanting scenery, and then visit the fascinating criminal museum collection. Stroll through the impressive gardens and intriguing art of the village with ancient castles that have been converted into hotels. Enjoy the wonderful weather and shade of trees while biking along the Tauber River. Spend a sinful evening sipping local wine or home brewed beer. And you must indulge in a mouthwatering dinner of potato dumplings and apple pancakes just once while there.

Experience the trip of a lifetime with our varied travel destinations. See our entire catalog online to learn more.
 

Nothing Like Beer and Bratwurst in Germany

Sunday, April 1, 2012 by Tour Support Team

European vacations to Germany surround travelers with beautiful fields and royal castles providing excellent backdrops for picture perfect memories. And Romantic Road offers the perfect course for your journey.

Cycling tours in Europe offer a favorable way to see the quaint villages and famed locations that make up Germany. During your adventure from Nördlingen out to Wertheim, you will journey down the famous Romantic Road, Germany’s Middle Age trade road. This medieval route runs through expansive countryside and charming villages while providing beautiful views of unspoiled nature and half-timbered houses. Enjoy biking to the lively village of Rothenburg, the epitome of German cities. Here, you might find a festival and even handcrafted souvenirs. Speaking of festivals, if you like jazz, you’re sure to find great Jazz festivals and clubs in Germany.

When it’s just about time to call it a night, enjoy a home brewed beer and try a mouthwatering dish of bratwurst. Then, retire to your cozy room at a storybook type location in the Hotel Markusturm, which was built as a customs house in the late 1200s.

Call today or browse our online catalog to plan your perfect vacation with Austin-Lehman Adventures and prepare for your vacation of a lifetime. Adventure tours through Germany are simply magnificent.
 

Experience Charming Germany

Monday, March 12, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Austin-Lehman Adventures Germany

Storybook towns, majestic castles and whimsical gardens surround you in charming Germany. Ancient Roman artifacts and half-timbered homes will delight travelers on their seven day journey along the Mosel River. European Vacations to Germany are absolutely unbeatable.  

Cycling Tours offer a great way to see the quaint villages and historic sites that adorn Germany. Check out the 2,000 year old city of Trier and Neumagen, Germany’s oldest wine village. Explore half-timbered homes in the vibrant town of Bernkastel. See the remains of a Roman villa on the banks of the Mosel River in Longuich. The site is like something out of a storybook. Kids and enthusiasts alike will enjoy the doll and oven museum in Neef offering a wide-ranging variety of sights for admirers of old toy culture along with more than 60 stunning cast iron stoves from different centuries.

Your trip along the winding path of the Mosel River is one you will cherish forever with natural beauty, historic sites and spectacular wineries.

When it’s time to call it a night, enjoy your cozy accommodations at the Hotel Kessler- Meyer and relax in a Roman steam bath. Have a glass of wine as you pinch yourself just as a reminder that this dream of a place is in fact reality.

Call today to plan your perfect European Vacation with Austin-Lehman Adventures and prepare for your adventure of a lifetime.
 

Awesome Cycling Tours in Germany

Monday, March 12, 2012 by Austin-Lehman Travel Reviews

When my family and I decided to try a European vacation this last summer, I wasn't sure what to expect. But Austin Lehman really put our minds at ease. From the moment we booked our travel plans, they handled everything with such professionalism. After much consideration we felt that we would like to include our love of biking in our travel plans, and try one of the cycling tours.

The idea of visiting small towns and museums while riding through the countryside seemed like just the getaway we needed so we chose Germany for our adventure vacation. I have to say from the moment we arrived in Trier, Germany, we were overwhelmed with all the beauty and majesty of the country. Although, the first day of biking from Luxemburg to Trier was just a little too long, overall we couldn't have asked for a better trip. The guides, Luuk and Tom, were so friendly and made everyone feel right at home. I've never experienced two people that were so sensitive to the needs of the group like they were.

One of my favorite parts of the trip was touring all the little villages. You can get lost in all the little shops and meandering pathways. As far as hotels, the stay in Cochem was wonderful with picturesque views, beautiful hotel room and extremely tasty restaurant.
Now I can’t wait to try one of the family adventure vacations so we can bring along our kids. We would love to try the Alaska tour next!

Name: Connie Jean
City: Celina
State: Ohio
Country: USA

The European Adventure is all in the Belgian Chocolate

Monday, March 5, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Austin-Lehman Adventures Belgium

Off for a European Adventure holiday?  Well, shhhh, don’t tell the Swiss but the Belgians have it. It’s official. Belgian chocolate is the best in the world.   It’s the gourmet standard by which all other chocolate confections are measured.  What makes Belgian chocolate so dreamy? It is the quality ingredients and a strict adherence to tried and tested manufacturing techniques.

Most Belgian chocolate is handmade in small shops using old techniques and even older equipment.  Cold shells are made and then filled with wonderful confections such as nougats, creams and pralines.  Small chocolate outlets are very popular with visitors just as wineries are in France and breweries are in Germany.  Perhaps joining one of our cycling tours is a great way of working off all the calories.

Can anything come anywhere close after such an introduction?  Well, European vacations tend to come up with the odd surprise every now and then so how about a city, Brussels, which celebrates a statue of a small boy urinating in public?  The Mannekin Pis (and the name is for real) commemorates a little boy extinguishing an explosive fuse as only little boys could and thereby saving the city from certain destruction. Mmm....on high days and holidays, the little 61 cm tall (how small?) is dressed to thrill.  It’s a matter of national pride to come up with new costumes, a bit like Google and their logo artwork changes, I suppose.  Expect two or three costume changes weekly.  

To see the beautiful sights of Belgium, learn more about our travel itineraries by visiting us online today.
 

Ride Your Way through History in Germany

Thursday, February 23, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Germany Bike Tour

European Vacations are a wonderful indulgence for travelers looking to discover storybook towns and marvels of the medieval age. An Austin Lehman adventure through Germany offers the perfect way to explore and watch as history comes to life with the perfect combination of romance and adventure.

Medieval, half-timbered homes, fields of sunflowers, stunning gardens and magnificent castles adorn the road that leads you from Nördlingen to Wertheim, Germany. Justifiably called Romantic Road, the crooked streets, lovely flowers and vibrant pastures are comparable only to a picturesque scene out of a storybook.

Cycling tours are the picture perfect way to explore the quaint villages in southern Germany. Travelers can pedal through villages filled with cliff-side gardens, museums, rivers and boutique shops. Find a panoramic view unlike any other in Rothenburg at the top of a Renaissance structure and explore the relics of a criminal museum. Enjoy a sunset on the serene Tauber River. And after a long day of cycling and sightseeing, relax with a home-brewed beer and a delicious, wholesome dish that you can only find in Germany.

Call today to plan your ideal European Vacation with Austin Lehman Adventures and travel your way through history this year.

Experience the Excitement of Austin Lehman Adventure Trips

Wednesday, February 22, 2012 by Tour Support Team

 

Austin-Lehman Adventurer Trips

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you are planning a vacation, why not try something entirely new and exciting like one of our adventure trips?  Our adventure vacations are full of enthusiasm and passion for active travel. Whether hiking huge mountains or jumping off waterfalls, the raw and original experience of travel in this way is what makes our tours worthwhile.


Take a cycling tour through the narrow streets of Slovenia or pedal through the enchanting vineyards of Germany.  Germany gives you a glimpse into the history of Roman culture with its royal castles and architecture of medieval era. We offer customized tours tailor-made to suit your preferences, and our guides give personal attention to everyone. The off beaten trails through the forests that are unknown to most other tourists give you a chance to watch wild animals in their natural abode. America’s first national park, Yellowstone, is home to wild animals like wolf, bison, elk and grizzly bears.

Our hiking vacations are organized in various locations across America, Africa and Europe. Travel solo or with a partner and hike a long stretch through the rough mountains of the stunning Grand Canyon and relax in the evening camping around a campfire. Imagine hiking alongside glaciers or erupting geysers, the fun and element of surprise in all our tours make your holiday time extra special. Visit us online to peruse our catalog to find the trip just right for your needs.
 

Family European Vacations for Relaxation & Education

Thursday, February 16, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Family Europena Vacations for Relaation and Education

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Austin-Lehman’s adventure trips are a treat for people who are passionate about traveling to unexplored and virgin territories. European vacations provide ample opportunities to go on hiking trips, cycling tours and treading on foot to discover the wonders from the medieval era.

Plan your family adventure vacations keeping everyone’s interest in mind as there is so much to do. Children watch Roman history come alive outside the classroom when they are surrounded by elegant Roman castles and artifacts in Germany. As you walk through serene gardens and the banks of the tranquil Mosel River, you will be overwhelmed with the feeling of oneness with nature.

Pedal through the vineyards of France with your family admiring the exquisite beauty of wine villages or just sneak into one of the least traveled European countries, Slovenia. Yet untouched by tourism, this destination has spectacular lakes and waterfalls. The biggest advantage of visiting Slovenia is that it touches the Alps and gives you the chance to ski in winters. As it also touches the Mediterranean, you can get to the sea for an unforgettable experience during summertime. Slovenia has a vast area covered by rich forests that is very enjoyable to view the landscape from above in a hot air balloon. There are more adventures as you bike through the real caves and abandoned mines.

Make Europe part of your travel plans this year by visiting us online to learn more about these wonderful destinations.
 

Bring Everyone Together with Family Adventure Vacations

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 by Tour Support Team
Yosemite NAtional Park
Bringing the whole family together to share fun, memorable moments all while experiencing the joy of being with each other is now possible with Austin-Lehman’s family adventure vacations. By facing their fears and expressing their joy, parents can be a great example for their children. And watching kids participate in unexpected adventurous activities is a true barrier breaker that shows them their parents’ fun side. It might not be an easy task for everyone in the family to take time off from work and other commitments at the same time, but a nice European vacation will definitely prove to be well deserved and worth the effort.

Imagine cycling through the countryside of Denmark while enjoying beautiful castle views or strolling through the enchanting vineyards of France brings a sense of heightened imagination in children. Bring a little more spark to the journey by checking out the vintage cars collection at Musée Dufresne. A week long stay in Germany also offers a glimpse of the medieval world. Royal castles, fantastic gardens and Roman artifacts along the serene path of the Mosel River are enchanting encounters to be remembered for a lifetime. Parents find a real treat with a glass of local wine and a plate of Germany’s famous apple strudel while relaxing in the evenings.

With so many places to see in Europe, families may just not want to ever leave. Bring your family on a European adventure that will forever change the way they view the world. Visit us online to learn more or book your travel today.