Linderhof

On Louise and Ian's last full day here we took them to Schloss Linderhof, Ludwig II's palace which is described as his "most irresistibly charming whimsy". It is in a valley surrounded by Alps. Ludwig was inspired by Versailles and dedicated to Louis XIV. It was built for him to spend time there alone and not for guests, so there was one bedroom, dining table for one and even a opera setting for one.

It was heavily decorated and very ornate. The dining room was especially interesting as it has a "magic table". So that Ludwig did not have to see the servants this table would be lowered to the kitchen and then come back fully laden in 30 seconds.

The grounds were stunning. On the grounds is a fake stalactite cave for him to watch Wagner operas performed. There was a balcony (again for just him) or he could be rowed about on a small illuminated lake by a servant. He was the only member of the audience for these performances.

Afterwards we went to the nearby town of Oberammergau for ice cream and a wander.

That evening was our last meal together, so we went off to the local Gasthaus where Louise was treated to a table full of people in lederhosen and dirindls. She even made a friend:

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We even got to add another sticker to our Schloss poster - we are well on the way to trying to see them all!