Hobbit-like cave dwellings in Langenstein, Harz, Germany

We recently got the chance to visit the cave dwellings (Höhlenwohnungen) in Langenstein, near Halberstadt, the largest town in Harz district and gateway to the Harz mountains (Saxony Anhalt, Germany). They are likely to break the spell of the idyllic hobbit-style living and shake you back to the reality of 18th and 19th century austerity and frugality.

Flower island Mainau on lake Constance

Former stronghold, monastery, castle, sanatorium and YMCA camp, conquered, pillaged and owned by Romans, Franks, Swedes and Teutons, the little island Mainau on lake Constance started its quiet years in the 19th century when a Hungarian prince bought it…