Black Forest
Who would have thought I'd end up in Baden Baden? It all started with a playful suggestion among friends I met in Cádiz. Xenia lives in Baden Baden, and Zina resides in Stuttgart. From a casual idea, things fell into place—booking a flight to Stuttgart and securing a central apartment for convenient daily meetings.
Baden Baden, an elegant spa town in southern Germany near the French border, boasts affluent development, primarily fueled by its thermal springs. Though my trip didn't delve into the springs' healing powers, it's worth noting that Baden-Baden's history dates back to the Celts and Romans, who were drawn to the water for its therapeutic benefits. After a period of obscurity following the Roman Empire's collapse, the town resurged in the 19th century, attracting European aristocrats seeking the fashionable trend of bathing and indulging in mineral-rich water. This led to the creation of a vibrant resort around Baden-Baden's ancient bathhouses and fountains.
As you stroll along the banks of the river Oos, you'll come across Lichtentaler Allee Park. En route, you may pass by upscale hotels featuring clay court tennis facilities, adding to the allure of the picturesque surroundings.
Lichtenler Allee Park
While other places endure heat waves, Baden-Baden offers a delightful escape with its pleasant climate. Take a leisurely break by grabbing a book and finding a welcoming bench in the park to unwind and cool down.
Staying in the town center facilitated easy meetups with my hosts, Xenia and Sina, as we explored the area. One day, they drove us to a national park where we discovered Mummelsee Lake.
Baden-Baden, with its relaxing atmosphere, is a resort town offering outdoor activities and a variety of bars and restaurants. I enjoy visiting parks in the late afternoon, easily accessible in this town. I also took advantage of the free public bus transportation.
While public commuting involves some waiting, the complimentary town transport mitigates any inconvenience.
Upon Xenia and Sina's suggestion, we dressed up for a night at the casino. Adorned with mirrors, chandeliers, and gold leaf, it lived up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful casinos globally. Marlene Dietrich and Dostoevsky visited, with Baden-Baden claiming credit for inspiring "The Gambler."