On our homeward bound journey from our Croatian road trip, we decided to have a little taster of Germany.

So, we chose the picturesque spa town of Baden-Baden, “Baden” actually means “to bathe”

This particular town wanted to distinguish itself from other Spa towns with the same name of Baden, one in Austria and another in Switzerland, it was decided in 1931 to name it Baden-Baden.

We only had half a day in Baden-Baden, so, after arriving at our hotel we decided to head down to the town immediately have a spot of lunch and go and explore.

And such a charming town it was too, perhaps because Baden-Baden is a renowned spa town. It has a very relaxed feel to it, and nobody appears to rush.

Strolling through the town there are some classy boutiques and antique shops, and plenty of places to spend your winnings from the previous nights’ indulgence in the casino.

The elegant Kurhaus spa resort and casino complex was built during the early 19th-century and has been frequented by the rich and famous. Needless to say, we didn’t take a spin on the tables.

Just along from the Kurhaus is the 19th-century Trinkhalle (pump house) and quite unlike others you may have seen, this one is rather impressive.

Along its 90-metre arcade are Corinthian pillars and striking murals, the spa waters here are said to have had healing powers.

Walking along past the Kurhaus is the stylish Belle Epoch theatre, which then meanders on through into one of Baden-Baden's peaceful gardens.

Baden-Baden has an aura of sophistication around it, and some very elegant architecture, and not too many towns can boast of having a Faberge museum.

Wandering further up in the town, we head to the Roman ruins and more thermal bath houses. It’s incredible you can feel the heat and see the steam coming up through the drains.

The Friedrichsbad bathing palace was the most important and modern thermal spa in Germany in the late 19th-century.

Baden-Baden is home to twelve historical springs, one of which was made into to an unusual drinking fountain set within a grotto.

The grotto was built around 1870 from thermal stones.

However, although it is a drinking fountain, beware the water reaches temperatures of up to 63°.

I just touched the water with my hands, and it nearly burnt me, perhaps it was the shock that it was hot.

Although a little touristy, Gary and I couldn’t resist the alluring garden of the Löwenbräu restaurant.

So, we sat in the relaxing garden, enjoyed some traditional German fare of meatloaf & roast pork and of course a couple of local beers.

What could be better after a long drive?

Our accommodation for the one night in Baden-Baden was at the Hotel Magnetberg.
One of the main reasons we chose this hotel was for the parking, which there was plenty of it, even for the larger car.

Initially, due to our lack of German we didn't realise there was a car park at the front of the hotel (which is free). We headed for the secure underground garage at the rear which was €7 a night.

I didn't quite notice when I booked the hotel that it was up a steep hill, but it helps you burn off a few calories.

This picturesque town is worth exploring, and a great introduction to Baden-Württemberg.

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