A stage in Philippsburg

Philippsburg is a small town close to Karlsruhe, only a few miles from the borders of Germany with France and Switzerland. According to shooters from all over the world, this is the site of the best IPSC stand in Germany and even Europe.

We were there at the time of its inauguration on occasion of the 2002 European Championship. We learned that it seems to have been increased and improved at a later date. The venue will be the scene of the Infinity Euro Open this week. Guga will participate in this competition, so we’ll be there. On our return we’ll tell you all about the refurbishment.

The modern Porsche

The little town is in the heart of the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) in the prosperous state of Baden-Württemberg, which is one of the most important in Germany due to its large population and economy. Its capital, Stuttgart, a major industrial and automobile industry center is the home to Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and Bosch. We intend to visit the Mercedes and the Porsche Museums, both with incredible architecture and collections.

The region not only has the Black Forest and city of Stuttgart, but also includes romantic Heidelberg, one of the loveliest and oldest towns in Germany. Its world-famous castle has a combination of Gothic and Renaissance styles. The best view of the town can be seen from its terrace. Heidelberg also has the country’s oldest university.

The famous Heidelberg

Karlsruhe is known for its radiating street layout and was almost totally destroyed during WW II. Today, the city is an example of rebuilding and its public transportation system is a benchmark for large European cities. It is also home to the first technological university in Germany.

The Dreisam River flows through Freiburg im Breisgau, on the western side of the Black Forest, with mountains completely framing the town. The climate is supposedly the warmest in Germany.  The town is considered to be the center of excellence in urban sustainability and much of it is closed to private vehicles.

Baden-Baden was formerly called Baden in Baden, (Baden in the State of Baden); baden means ‘baths’ in German and owes its name to the old Roman baths there. Even today its springs attract tourists worldwide who visit the spas seeking miraculous cures. The River Rhine and Black Forest form the backdrop to this beautiful town with the largest opera house in Germany – The Festival Theatre.

Konstanz

Konstanz is the largest town in the vicinity of Lake Constance (the Bodensee in German), the largest lake in Germany. This university town is one of the most prosperous in the country and has many tourist and cultural attractions. Its historic center is on the lakeshore and the German border with Switzerland passes through the southern part of the town amongst streets and houses. The town’s temperate climate, influenced by the lake, facilitates wine production (white wines).

Last but not least, don’t miss an unforgettable excursion: take a boat along the River Rhine and on its banks are the largest number of castles per square meter, and sip a good wine or cider (apple wine) also produced in the region. Enjoy yourself!