A train bound for Kloster Andechs

How far would you go for the definitive beer drinking experience?  Munich? Salzburg?  Any place that refers to a beer pilgrimage and strong religious roots, is probably worth checking out.  We grab the train to Herrsching, then a quick taxi ride up the hill.  This best kept secret is on a hill overlooking the river, and monks began 900 years ago sharing the beer, they were brewing some of the best beer, but originally kept it for themselves.  After this trip, we are quite glad it is now shared.  To be visiting a church, attached to a brewery during Advent is quite a change for Trish.  We can tour 15th century churches, and this Benedictine abbey was from 1455.  

We have a view of the valley, are surrounded by dark beautiful wood, and it is truly a medieval setting, we enjoy a hearty, strong, and malty beer poured from wooden barrels.  Copper brewing tanks, steins locked up for the locals.  There is not much english spoken here, but beer seems to be a universal language. 

We sit with an older german, he speaks very little english, we speak very little german.  We do know he is visiting from Munich as well.  Exchange a conversation, broken english, broken german, new friendships.  We find a way to communicate a little and Prost.  

Instead of leaving on the bus, we decide to take the hike down the mountain. 30 min and 2km, shouldn't be to hard.  

We can tour the grounds, then hike down to the town.  

But it is dark, and as we chat, laugh, and take in this lovely wilderness hike, so we finally make it to town.  Some 60+ minutes later, after a right, a right, a right.... What are four rights?  Oh yeah, a circle.  Little known fact, in neighborhoods in this town, you come across a random cigarette vending machine.  Just on the walk.  

We get to train, and head back to Munich.   A great beer pilgrimage indeed.  Prost! 

As we get to our stop, it is again a buzz of people and activity.  We decide to check out Tollwood.  We have noticed it each day, and would categorize it as a cross between flea-market, burning man, xmas market, swap meet,  did we mention burning man.  

 Gluewein, crepes, and Haas gets a hot white russina, to off to our flat for much needed sleep.