Typical destinations for tourists in the Allgäu/Southern Germany are, of course, the Ludwig castles. First and foremost, Neuschwanstein Castle, which sits in the landscape like a Disney castle (and probably served as a model for the same...). Linderhof Palace is somewhat smaller (surprisingly small, really) and is not far from Ettal Abbey. It was built from 1870 by King Ludwig II. Perhaps it could also be better described as a royal villa. The original plan was to model the palace on Versailles. However, the site proved to be unsuitable. A kind of retreat was designed in the style of Marley Palace near Versailles. The king spent the winter months here. Incidentally, it is not at all obvious that the castle is actually built entirely of wood and only clad in plaster.

Linderhof Palace has a complex yet symmetrical floor plan. The upper floor with the king's living quarters houses a total of two large halls, the staircase, four almost horseshoe-shaped cabinets, an oval dining room and study, as well as the tapestry rooms flanking the second largest room in the palace, the Hall of Mirrors. The largest room is the impressive 100 square metre bedroom. Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take photos inside!

The garden directly around the castle is laid out in a very formal style, combining elements from French baroque gardens. There is also an ornamental garden and a large park modelled on English landscape gardens with groups of trees and winding paths that incorporate the natural features. Be sure to visit if you're in the area and book an informative guided tour in good time! Kisses 😘