Hohenschwangau, Germany

This castle is where King Ludwig II of Bavaria grew up.  My first impression is that it seems much more friendly and lived-in than Neuschwanstein, the castle he spent 20 years building.  Why was he not satisfied with this one?

The walls are a warm pale yellow, the gardens are lovely, and it is much more accessible to the town below.

This arch is built right into the mountain, and offers a lovely view of a second arch.

This fountain actually has three lions supporting a large bowl, with a view of the rugged peaks behind.