Playgrounds

While I can't vouch that every student exercised their German skills, I am certain that we know two things:  where to find every free bathroom in Germany and where each playground is located.

Einsiedeln, Switzerland

We spent two night in the little town of Einsiedeln, a short bus ride up the Alps from Lucerne.  The Hotel Sonne isn't fancy, but they served great food, had a playground across the street, and a spectacular monastery, the Einsiedeln Abbey, just steps from the front door.  The current monastery dates from 1721, but Benedictines have been monk-eying around there since 934.

The Baroque church is spectacular, and remarkably well kept.  I guess they figure if it's not Baroque, don't fix it.

Some of us wouldn't mind if they fixed the bells, which chime early and often.

 

The Abbey is also famous for raising horses, which greeted us as we hiked around the barns and fields.

Silke

Silke, our guide, worked tirelessly to get us...everywhere!  Everyone is already missing Silke and her friend Squeaky.

Sharp Kids

Switzerland is famous for chocolates (now eaten or melted) watches (no time to shop for them) and army knives.  That we had time for, although after watching a couple of our kids, they aren't the sharpest Swiss Army Knife in the drawer.

Climb Every Mountain!

Mt. Rigi is a boat ride and a cog railroad ride outside of Lucerne.  At 5897 feet, the massif is known as the Queen of the Mountains.  Three different lakes are visible from the summit.  Lots of WOW going on up here!

Of course, some people couldn't understand why we wouldn't let them climb down to the edge of the cliff.  Chaperones spoil all the fun!

Beach Boys (and Girls)

Meanwhile, back at Lake Lucerne.

Lucerne

Lucerne sits in a scenic mountain valley, on the shores of a crystal clear lake.  After enduring the sad tale of the Lion of Lucerne (dejected because Swiss boys died in foreign wars more than 200 years ago) traipsing across the Chapel Bridge and enjoying the views, our intrepid crew couldn't resist the cool waters of the lake.  Beach Boys (and girls) rule!