GAP Germany

From Innsbruck we drove about 45 minutes north into Germany to Garmisch-Partenkirchen (GAP as all the license plates say) to the Edelweiss Armed Forces Resort. We had heard great things about it and wanted to check it out - and we agree - it's a beautiful spot! Unfortunately the hotel was booked, but we did find a small B&B in the heart of town that was fun as well and cheaper! Actually this is a B&B I'd love to go back to. The couple that ran it were really nice and can you believe this - the man ran the NYC marathon in 2:21!!! His fastest marathon time however was 2:17! Wowzers!!

Both days there we enjoyed the buffet lunch at the Edelweiss resort with typical American food - burgers, big salad bar, and ice cream for $10 and Mo who eats a lot and tries everything, eats free!

Our 2nd day there we hiked the gorge which was beautiful. The trail started near the Olympic stadium for ski jumping where we actually got to see them practicing on grass. The hike ended up being a little more difficult than we had anticipated as in many areas we had to duck through tunnels while we followed the gorge and rushing water. Jeff had to really squat not only being tall, but also with Mo on his back. The scenery was spectacular. At the end it opened up to a river and we opted to take the longer loop back which ended up having a long up-hill segment. Again - it was gorgeous with views of the snow covered alps and wide open grass lands.

After our hike we decided to check out a popular swim area in a man-made lake. It was busy with tons of people - sunbathers, kids, infants - all playing. There were high dives, slides, and special baby areas. Morgan loved it!

We have also been following the World Cup soccer games and our 2nd night there Germany played Uruguay and won for 3rd place. Who would have thought the Germans who have so many strict rules about noise pollution would be so loud and crazy! Morgan who slept through the Naples New Year's Eve fireworks bombing woke up!!!

Of course, no trip to a military base would be complete without a trip to the PX. I bought a sweatshirt and pants, and got Morgan some shoes and a bigger Sesame Street helmet for her new bike. I also bought some crocs - have finally been converted! :-)