Christmas Market Magic...Rudesheim

The countdown to Christmas is well and truly on. 

The countdown for our move home to Australia is well and truly on too, 

this time next month we will have said our farewells and will be 

sitting on our plane waiting for take off.

When we found our time as expats was coming to an unexpected end, 

we could have headed home at the end of June.

That would have meant that the girls would start school half way through a school year 

and the dog, Ralph, due to Australian Quarantine requirements would not be 

able to travel until November at the earliest

...and hellooooo...Christmas and Christmas Markets in Germany...

 we need one last fix before heading home. 

Tickets were booked for  Australia in January 2016!

The first market we visited in 2015 was Rudesheim, 

a gorgeous little town full of cobblestoned alleys  and half timbered buildings. 

Situated in prime Riesling country between 

the banks of the Rhine River and the rolling Taunus Hills. 

The town is enchanting, an abundance of fairy lights decorations and 

the smell of spiced Gluhwein filling the air brings on the magic of Christmas.

Private residences join in the festive spirit and add to the charm.

The carved woodwork on the half timbered buildings is stunning, 

when you add Christmas decorations it is magical. 

I loved this tree made out of local wine boxes.

You can take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument for a fabulous view 

over the valley and vineyards for €7 return. 

Money well spent even on a chilly day.

Even Santa took the time for a ride

It is always a joy to soak up the festive atmosphere of a German Christmas Market, 

hot cup of Gluhwein warming your hands, delicious warm food to keep you going.