For another early morning photowalk, we decided to check out the spring flowers and birds at the Nymphenburg Gardens. While it was a little early in May for all but the earliest babies, we did remember why this is such a great place to pass a few hours.
Of course, after arriving to find perfect sun and a view unobstructed by any people, it was just our luck that the front of the Schloss was covered in scaffolding. We'd been there just a week or two earlier to feed the swans in the afternoon and it was not under construction!
The canals and garden are a popular spot for a stroll, and when the water freezes in the winter it becomes a venue for Eisstockshießen (similar to curling).
The number 17 tram lets off just in front of the canal leading up to Schloss Nymphenburg (the far right on the map below). We usually walk up this way to see the swans that live in the fountains and lake in front of the Schloss.
I'm not sure why some swans puff up their wings like classical, royal looking swans and others keep them flat, but the the ones here often hold up their wings and look quite majestic. These two are enjoying a little morning preening or flirting or posturing...not sure whether it's two males or a male and a female, but it was mating season and they were all acting strange.
The palace itself long served as a summer palace for the Bavarian royal family. The first baroque castle was built around 1675, but was much smaller. The major enlargements - especially the vast gardens - were added in the first half of the 1700's in the reigns of Max Emmanuel and Charles VII Albert.
There are a variety of beautiful buildings surrounding the castle.
You can tour the castle also, but the gardens and grounds are a nice way to spend a couple of relaxing hours (and with no admission fee).
Once you pass through the gates into the gardens, you'll see vast gardens (more walking gardens that tons of flowers) with fountains, ponds, and statues of Greco-Roman gods and goddesses.
Looking back at the castle from inside the gardens, we see a goose family out for a stroll (along with a lot of human families and dogs).
As you continue through the gardens along the canal, there are lovely tree-lined paths, leading to the Cascade (#23 on the map), a set of waterfalls and more statues of gods (Poseidon is hanging out there, of course).
Throughout the park (especially on the north side), there are many little hidden beautiful areas, with small gardens, sculptures, and buildings from various eras. As well as wildflowers and various ducks, geese, and swans.
And of course there's a lovely little cafe and restaurant, where you can stop for a meal, or a traditional snack of kaffe und kuchen (coffee and cake).
