Old traditions and a hike with a view

November 11th is a significant day in the books of the western world. In the Commonwealth of Nations the day that ended WWI is commemorated as Remembrance Day. A tradition born in the 19th century in Germany also commences on the 11th month, on the 11th day, in the 11th hour: It marks the opening of the fifth season, also known as carnival. (not my cup of tea, though). 

Even older, stemming from the 4th century is St. Martin's Day. It is based on the tale that a Roman soldier and converted Christian cut his cloak in half in order to donate one half to a poor man on a cold winter day. (Socialism at its best...)

In celebration of St. Martin bonfires are lit in the vineyards, some of them even display motives made of torches. After the fiery spectacle a procession of pre-school and elementary school children walk through the streets carrying colourful, often homemade lanterns while singing traditional songs. (No pics due to privacy reasons.)

"Protected by St. Mary"

"Our pictures on your hill, thank you vintners.
Traditions are alive."

Sunday I went for a hike with some promising views to boot. Of course I had some elevation to gain, seemingly not much for the trained mountaineer but more than enough for the occasional hiker.

Meeting the neighbours

Perfectly marked trails

Watchtower on Weiselstein

Juniper heath

"King's lake" - former basalt quarry

Castle Olbrück

Rodder Maar, not of volcanic origin, but likely caused by meteor impact

Colour explosion in the vineyards

Since the clocks have been set back to wintertime (or standard time) the window for roaming around during daylight are inevitably getting shorter. Still, I can make the occasional get-away and take the overland-bus into the autumn-coloured vineyards of our newfound home.

Castle ruin Are and view on the village Altenahr

View over the Ahr river valley

Mayschoss Valley

In the far: the village of Rech

Harvest is over, no grapes left. In the far: the village of Dernau

Although tourism season is far from over I have not seen or met a lot of other hikers, just some local dog walkers. Worked for me though, because I could enjoy nature's beauty in peace and quiet, and had it all to myself.