Bad Tolz Christmas Market

The Christkindlmarkts shutter their windows on December 24th. Done. Lock the door. Turn off the lights. See ya! I -am- not- ready…………………..

I love the Christmas Markets! It’s not all about the shopping. It’s the culture. The unity. The traditions. The depths the Germans will go to in keeping the Markets alive. Man…..it is cold and rainy and snowy and windy and yet….the vendors are out there bundled up for all weather and many, many, long hours on their feet. I love it. But, I already told you that, right?

Can you stand one more? Because we went to Bad Tolz this weekend for their unique  and crafty Christkindlmarkt. And it was good. Very good.

Bad Tolz is a lovely little city straddling the aqua marine river, Isar. We have seen buildings dated from 1395 in this city. In summer it is popular with German tourists for its mineral baths and spas. Dan and I have visited several times to stroll the cobbled streets and lanes while enjoying a Gelato. The restaurants with their outdoor seating are perfect to savor a Cappucino and Strudel. The paved paths along the Isar are a real delight as they are made just for a pleasant walk and not a hike up the hills. Families with baby strollers and little tikes learning to ride their 2 wheel bikes are out in force. But this is Christmas. And the Market and I never want it all to end.

And here is the beautiful clear aquamarine Isar River which divides the city.

Shallow now as winters enters.

We walked across the bridge and entered the old city or “Altstadt”

So peaceful.

This is the Rathaus or “City Hall.” Right on the main street.

And so we entered the Christmas Market.

Handmade soaps, lotions and potions.

Vendor booths are all wood with natural decorations.

The ancient way of making Gluhwein. The sugar cone melts over the kettle sweetening the wine.

I am in awe of the handmade baskets of all shapes, sizes and types of reed.

Unique creations of all kinds. Cow hide stools and Sheepskin blankets.

Me!

Wood fired Pizza Oven! People were lined up for these!

Specialty Cheese shop with cheeses I had never heard of. Also included a Raclette stand!

A view from the Market looking down toward the Isar. I love people watching!

 Wood, pine and nature. I will never forget how the German people love nature.

Beautiful handmade wreathes. The big pine cone one in the middle? I covet….

And, of course, no Christkindlmarkt is complete without Sparky and I delving in to a Bratwurst Semmel and a Rot Gluhwein! Sparky declared this one to be the best. I agreed!

I hope you enjoyed my Bavarian Journey to the Christkindlmarkt.

Dan and I wish you all a blessed and very Merry Christmas.

Auf Wiederschen!