Cochem...Late I Know.

     I am so sorry this is so late, but March was a busy month.   So for our anniversary my darling wonderful husband decided to take on the USO Cochem Castle and Dinner tour and I must say I was not disappointed.

     I know this isn't the best angle for the castle, but you are able to see the massive vineyard that surrounds the castle and provides the Riesling for dinners held at the castle.
     Our tour started inside the town of Cochem and we stopped at a mustard factory and tried 8 different "artisan" mustards, and then made our way to an Italian restaurant for lunch.   We had a bit of free time before the tour so we make sure that we make our way to the Catholic church in town, check the view of the Mosel river and find an Eis shop.

     After a bit of a hike we are treated to the beautiful grounds of Cochem, wrought iron dragon fences and coats of arms from various knights.   The tour starts and huge wooden doors open to let you into the courtyard.

     I didn't have enough time to take as many pictures as I wanted...but the details on this castle are breath-taking.   The wonderful thing about this castle is that is was completely renovated and restored in the 1800's, and while not authentically medieval it appealed to my sense of aesthetic.

     We are led down through the castle and we end up in a former chapel with pine table and benches.   We are seated and the Master of Ceremonies began to tell us about the knights of the castle and different customs as a boy carrying buckets of water and towels to each member of the tour group so we can wash our hands.
     We are first served bread and lard ( I know it sounds gross, but it's seasoned bacon grease...so bomb) followed by a nice hot broth.   While sipping our broth an honest-to-goodness minstrel plays for us.

     After many more stories, songs, and a pass around of a snuff box we get our feast.

     Now I'm no stranger to Ren. Faires...but this Turkey leg was so good, smoky and juicy and huge.   I know the meat is magical in this country, this leg ousted even the Bratwurst.   After dinner there is a Knight's Tournament between members of the tour group with a feat of strength, the ability to entertain the ladies, and of course a beer chug-a-thon, the winner was presented with a heraldry of his vast talents, the minstrel plays and we all dance and our wonderful evening comes to a close.   

   

  Both my husband and I really enjoyed this trip and hopefully we are lucky enough to take our folks when they come to visit.