Day 7 Cesky Krumlov to Gmunden, Austri

It was a lovely drive down to Gmunden—we passed through farmland, deep dark woods, and drove along the Danube at one point. We stopped in the cute town of Wesenufer (set right on the Danube) and split a wiener schnitzel lunch platter…yes, we’re now in Austria!

We have seen onion shaped domes on church spires everywhere since we landed. They’re eye-catching, whimsical spheres (some spires have two) found on churches, castles, and towers across Central and Eastern Europe, especially in Austria, Czechia, and the Ukraine. These domes aren’t just decorative; they evolved to help shed snow and became iconic features of Baroque and Orthodox architecture. Blending form, function, and flair, they are thought to symbolize the heavens, adding a touch of drama and spirituality to the skyline. They make us smile every time we spot one!

After eating out for a week it was nice to relax and enjoy a home-cooked dinner. The view wasn’t bad either!

Center stage in this view is Schloss Ort (Lake Castle Ort), a castle perched on a tiny island with a onion-domed towers and wooden footbridge leading out to a chapel. You’ll see that this building plays the staring role in the majority of our photos from this area!! We’re excited to explore the rest of Lake Traunsee tomorrow.Read more