References

References from guests on 2009 Bavarian Castles and Kids and Castles Tours are also provided in a YouTube Video:
      >  References video

We just returned from European Castles Tours' "Bavarian Castles Tour" plus the three-day Venice extension.  This was the most spectacular trip we've ever taken!  Astrid Baur and her team have consolidated the most scenic sites in the area, they transported us efficiently using all types of transportation (van, ferries, carriages, cable cars), and acquired fabulous accommodations in both locations.  Their tour exposed us to the best of all the local cuisine, festivities, and hospitality.  Their extreme attention to all the behind-the-scene details created a wonderful experience for us!  We felt like we were visiting with family, and have made new friends in Bavaria that we hope to visit again soon.  We will definitely plan another tour with European Castles Tours as soon as time will allow.  Thanks for the perfect vacation!
     –  Brenda and Cliff Dixon, Ohio, April 2011

Hi Astrid.  I wanted to thank you and Peter again for such an incredible trip!

I can't express in words how much I enjoyed the Bavarian Castles Tour.

I will always have fond memories of the tour and many photos too.  

Also please thank Marlies for her kind hospitality and the great breakfasts!

     –  Laura Yandall, Maryland, April 2011

We selected the Bavarian Castle Tour with Astrid for our honeymoon and first trip to Europe / Germany based on our desire to see Germany’s famous castles and tour around the Bavarian countryside.  We certainly experienced more than we ever thought we would!  Astrid was the most perfect tour guide, for she took us not only to many of the famous tourist attractions, but also gave us a flavor of the local life / scene as well.  In addition, her restaurant choices and food selections were beyond fantastic.  We ate like kings while there!  The whole week was flawless – Astrid took care of everything, which helped us enjoy our trip that much more.  We would definitely book another tour with Astrid and have made recommendations to family and friends to do the same!
     –  Crystal and Patrick Larocca, Virginia, September 2010

Best Tour EVER!  Astrid and her Group (Landhaus, Bus Driver, etc.) manage every detail so incredibly beautifully it's art!  If you're looking for a great get-a-away where thinking isn't required, where everyone is ultra friendly, and you're hoping to meet great people ... hop on and enjoy the ride!  And the best part ... castles ... castles ... castles.
     –  Elvia and Victor Romero, California, September 2010

This is one of the best tours I have ever been on!  From beginning to end, I didn't have to worry about anything, which freed me to fully enjoy and immerse myself in the sights!  This tour had such a profound effect on me that I plan to take German classes and eventually return for one of your other tours (The Rhine sounds great)!  The only complaint I had was that I wasn't able to lose any weight, due to all that delicious German food!
     –  Cindy Franklyn, Michigan, September 2010

You made my first trip to Europe / Germany very special and I look forward to taking other tours with you.  I have been telling everyone here what a wonderful time I had and that they should book a tour with you.  You made everything effortless on my part.  The food was wonderful and the restaurants fantastic.  I can’t wait to come again.  The best part was the scenery.  I went to Germany to see castles but the mountains stole the show.  LOL
     –  Christine Knox, Kentucky, September 2010

Astrid, Bridget et al:  Roxanna and I wanted to thank all of you for helping to make this a truly memorable "life time / bucket list" event.   What an interesting group it was!  Everyone was a pleasure to be around and interesting to talk to, which definitely helped to make this the best tour that I have ever been on. 
     –  Calvin and Roxanna Seybold, Illinois, September 2010

I have travelled extensively across the world, but this was the best organised tour I had ever been on.  At every point it was organised for the convenience of the customer and not the tour company and they really went out of their way to ensure the trip was enjoyable and hassle free.  Plus it's true, there are no hidden extras.  I hardly spent anything on the trip which was really inclusive, and this makes it a good option in a credit crunch environment.  Highly Recommended. A+++++
     –  Dawn Osborne, England, June 2010

The Bavarian Castles Tour is a trip to the “Real” Magic Kingdom.  There is magic in learning the history of the “Fairytale King and his Fairytale castles”, as well as seeing them in person.  There is magic in the breathtaking beauty of Bavaria — its mountains, lakes, rolling landscapes and picturesque villages.  And the best magic of all is made by Astrid’s “magic wand” which she must use behind the scenes, as she concocts a seamlessly smooth, relaxing, well paced and extremely interesting adventure.  I very highly recommend this tour.
     –  Sandra, Toronto, Canada, June 2010

June 2010 brought myself and my family to one of the most enchanting and wonderful places in the world.  We traveled to the magnificent Bavarian Alps and enjoyed the fresh mountain air, the beauty of the lakes, and toured some of the most interesting castles ever build including Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Castles....  Go and enjoy the mountains, lakes and castles, but most of all enjoy being in the capable and caring hands of this personal, wonderful tour group.
     –  Dietz Family, New Jersey, June 2010 –  Read more ...

We had a wonderful week.  To wake up to the church bells, have a wonderful breakfast and relax with a stroll around the lake in the evening after seeing the beautiful castles made the trip perfect.  Our time was well planned and supervised.
     –  Duska Brickhouse, Alabama, May 2010

Thank you again for a wonderful tour of Ludwig's castles and the personal knowledge of the region you shared with us.  We had a really fun group and the size was just right.  I very much appreciated your arranging everything for us – that personal touch is what made it a wonderful trip for me.  We didn't have to worry about how to get to the castles, where to buy the tickets, what time to catch the ferry, etc.  And the restaurants you selected were just as wonderful of an experience as the castles.  Next time I will be prepared for the really large portions they serve – just like the beer!  I look forward to booking my next castle tour with you, and will highly recommend my friends to do the same.
     –  Lauriat Heilman, Atlanta, Georgia, June 2009

We’ve had a great trip.  This has been one of the best trips that we’ve had.  It’s been so easy for us to tour around this part of Bavaria.  Never been to Germany before, and we’ve thoroughly enjoyed it.  Astrid has made it so easy for us to see the sights, all the castles, and all the culture that we’ve seen in this area has been just amazing.  We’d certainly love to come back again.  She’s made us fall in love with the country.
     –  Russel and Debbie Hotson, Australia, June 2009

I highly recommend Astrid’s tour.  She’s excellent, very well organized and efficient.  The accommodations are perfect, the food was excellent, and we’ll be back.
     –  April Cook, West Virginia, June 2009

It’s a wonderful blend for all ages.  It has something for everybody.  It’s especially great for grandparents taking their grandchildren.  They’re not bored.  They have a wonderful time, as we have had.  Thank you so much.
     –  Nancy Willingham, Arizona, May 2009

Astrid has put together a truly amazing collection of tour activities.  She goes out of her way to ensure that every guest has a great time and is fully satisfied.  When the weather turned rainy she changed the schedule to ensure we toured indoors rather than enduring heavy rain outdoors.  Her attention to detail and comfort of the guests is unsurpassed.  It is a breathtaking experience to see the Bavarian Alps from the top of Mt. Zugspitze where you can actually look down at the other mountaintops, to see the amazing gold rooms of King Ludwig’s Linderhof castle, and to experience the breathtaking beauty and cleanliness of the Bavarian countryside.  The visual contrast of gazing at beautiful green grass while at the same time looking at towering high rugged mountains is not like anywhere else in the USA.  Astrid leaves plenty of time for shopping and other activities, including Octoberfest activities, and informs everyone of the best places to eat, shop, and take pictures.  I have recommended her to all my friends.
     –  Ken and Cathy Purfey, California, September 2008

What an unbelievably fantastic experience! From the fantasy and extravagance of King Ludwig’s storybook castles, the picturesque cities bulging with historical, cultural and religious significance, and the serenity of bovine-studded green pastures and church towers spotting the Bavarian countryside, to the welcoming hearts of our gracious hosts at Landhaus Koessel .... We can’t wait to book our next tour with Astrid, as we know her selection of living accommodations, meals, scenes and sites will, again, exceed our wildest expectations.
     –  Rosemarie & Jim Wess, Roseburg, Oregon, September 2008 –  Read more ...

The Bavarian Castle tour was a fabulous family vacation and all of the accommodations were first class.  Astrid Baur is an amazing hostess, is knowledgeable of the history of the region, and knows how to avoid the crowds.  We are looking forward to a return trip in the future.
     –  The Brown Family, Arlington, Texas, June 2008

I was so excited to book a European castle tour.  Little did I know just how much my husband and I would enjoy this trip.  Not only is Bavaria stunningly beautiful with its countryside and quaint homes, but it was Astrid, our tour guide, that made the trip extremely interesting.  She is on the top of my list as favorite tour guides.  Her knowledge made the bus trips interesting, her choice of restaurants was a treat to look forward to each evening, and she is so well organized that everything ran so smooth.  Besides all that she is such a warm genuine person.  I'll miss her, so I guess we will have to book one of her other tours.
     –  Charlene and John Kirkpatrick, Arizona, June 2008

The King Ludwig's Castles and Bavarian Lakes tour in September 2007 was a fantasy come true.  The scenery was spectacular and the castles were breathtaking.  However, the best part of the trip was the tour guide, Astrid Baur.  Not only does she speak flawless English, but she is unfailingly friendly, helpful, polite.  Every day she charmed us with stories and anecdotes about Bavarian culture and history.  She is extremely well organized and not one moment was wasted. Having said that, I never, ever had the feeling that I was being rushed.  The Landhaus was delightful.  I really felt as though I was a guest in a Bavarian home.  All dinners except one were prearranged.  Each was in a cozy local restaurant where the food was, without exception, delicious and filling.  All in all, Astrid took excellent care of her group.  I would not hesitate to go on one of her tours again.  One could not ask for a more pleasant and efficient tour guide.  Highly recommended!
     –  Leslie Ray, Canada, September 2007  – Read more ...

If majestic castles, an eccentric king, and a royal murder mystery spark your imagination, explore the life and times of Germany's favored king, Mad King Ludwig II, on your next European getaway.
     –  Susan McGee-Webb, October 2006  – Read more ...

The Bavarian Castle Tour is fantastic.  It included most of what I wanted to experience in Germany.  The tour takes you through the wonderful countryside of Bavaria and to many of its most fascinating castles, as well as Zugspitze and one of my favorite towns, Oberammergau.  All of the dinners were absolutely wonderful.  I consider it a special treat to sample the best of the local cuisine.  Our tour guide was Astrid Baur, who is a native of Bavaria with an impressive knowledge of the area and its castles.  Her organizational skills and knowledge of the sites makes the journey effortless for the entire group.  During our drive to one day’s castle visits, we passed through a small town and were requested to stop for a street procession.  As we took our photos Astrid treated us to a narrative of what was taking place.  Totally unplanned, but she handled it professionally and in a way that I remember it as if I were watching the procession with old friends.  I would recommend Astrid’s tours to anyone and everyone.
     – Todd Miller, Florida, June 2004

We add our voices to the choir singing the praises of Astrid Baur.  We have participated in two of her tours, Bavarian Castles Tour in 2009 and River Castles Tour in 2010.  She fulfilled every promise in her tour literature and more.  Each day she brought insight to the region and memories that we will carry with us for years.  We "got inside" each venue. Time to see, visit, learn and all at an appropriately leisure pace.  Castles, churches, gardens, palaces, shopping and even a few surprises are all on the agenda.  Astrid Baur made sure our tours were hassle free and pleasurable.
     –  Bob and Sue Martensen, Illinois, September 2010

We had a terrific time and will be sharing with our travel agent. Thank you!
     –  Melodye E., Texas, September 2010

I've just returned from Astrid Baur's River Castles Tour in Germany and can't sing her praises enough!  Astrid is extremely personable, professional, likeable and organized.  The tour was well planned and extremely enjoyable.  Astrid knows well how to balance scheduled events with ample free time for a good overall balance.  Within days of arriving home from this wonderful tour, I booked another European Castles Tour with Astrid, knowing it would be just as successful, enjoyable and well planned as my last.  You can rest assured Astrid's European Castles tours will not disappoint!
     –  Leslie Granger, California, September 2008

For castle buffs, a tour with Astrid is a must.  We took both the Bavarian tour and the Rhine River tour, and enjoyed them both.   Her selection of castles, hotels, restaurants, and city tours was superb.   She created a wonderfully enjoyable time for all of us with her warmth, her flexibility, and her graciousness.
     –  Pat and Lee Flocke, Florida,  July 2007  –  Read more ...

To anyone who is considering taking the Rhine Area River Castle tour, this trip surpassed other tours we have taken around the world.   Each day was a highlight when one enjoys living a bit of History, visiting and touching Roman walls, Medieval Castles, and quaint European villages.  And while Ms. Baur offers excellent and interesting commentary, one also has time to explore the sights at their leisure.    We could not be more pleased with our visit.
     –  Bob and Jeanne Lawler, Illinois, July 2007

Astrid Baur in my opinion is without a doubt the best Tour Director to be found anywhere.  She demonstrates professionalism in conducting the tour, while maintaining a very personal relationship with her clients.  She responds to the needs and concerns of her group in a prompt and efficient manner. I plan on joining Astrid on another tour in the future.
     –  Richard Smith, Illinois, July 2007

When I first saw the Rhine River tour on the “Castles of the World” website, I thought the tour sounded too good to be true.  But it was everything we hoped for and more.  As soon as we arrived at the airport and were greeted by Astrid Baur, we felt immediately comfortable.  We enjoyed the people in our group and the week went by quickly.  Astrid provided lots of help and suggestions prior to the trip and we received prepared packets before we arrived.  On tour, she handed out history sheets and maps of the towns we would visit.  I feel that this tour gave us the “best” of the Rhine area – castles and ancient fortresses, quaint little towns, cathedrals, a river boat cruise and lots of gorgeous scenery.  The hotels we stayed at were all wonderful and the food was outstanding.  There was plenty of time to do our own thing, relax, and just enjoy being in Germany.  I would recommend Astrid Bauer’s tour to anyone.
       – Jane Kelledy, Illinois, July 2007

I have participated in two Astrid Baur tours.  Both tours exceeded my expectations. These were exceptionally well-designed and flawlessly executed adventures that constantly interested, surprised, and delighted me.  Astrid passed on her encyclopaedic knowledge of the history and background of the featured sites and areas in a professional but relaxed manner best described as genuine "sharing".  She is knowledgeable, well-organized, sensitive to people's interests and wishes, and fun.
     –  Bruce McKay, Ontario, July 2007  –   Read more ... 

I took the River Castles tour in 2006 and, based on such a great experience, will be taking the Imperial Castles tour in 2008.  You couldn't ask for anything more in a travel experience!  Well planned itinerary, interesting variety, good food with lots of choice, small group size, and an outstanding tour director.  Astrid is the best!  Friendly, enthusiastic in a pleasantly low-key way, extremely knowledgeable, thoroughly professional, and so attentive that I felt like I had a personal travel guide every step of the way.  The tour was worth every dollar and then some.  (The low single supplement is an added plus for solo travelers.)  I can't wait for the next one!
     – Penny Purnell, Pennsylvania, June 2006

This was a trip Brenda and I will always remember.  Our wonderful guide Astrid, our outstanding driver Mustafa, delicious food and restaurant experiences, the towns, the cities, the scenery, and a truly nice (and prompt) group of people made this the trip of a lifetime.
    – Bill & Brenda, Pennsylvania, December 2010

We think the design of the Castles and Christmas Markets tour is brilliant, being able to stay each night in the same location, and avoiding all the lost time of check-ins and outs, packing and unpacking.  For us, the highlight was seeing Neuschwanstein, but visiting Bad Tolz and touring the Residence at Kempten were unexpected pleasures and real hidden gems of the tour.  We have already recommended your tours to our travel agent, and will happily recommend them to anyone.
    – Paul & Kim Kenny, Australia, December 2010

Astrid, you're like one of those elegant swans we saw, gliding smoothly and effortlessly (so it appears) while no one sees all the paddling going on underneath.  Thank you for this opportunity.  This tour was the ideal way to introduce my family to the beauty of Germany and it's people and language.  I spent two years as a young man in Germany as a Mormon missionary and now they know why I love your country so much.
    – Mark and Tamra Lyman, Utah, December 2010

Dear Astrid:  Thank you for your wonderful tour.  It may well have been the finest trip I've ever made to Germany, and I've made a lot of trips there starting as a boy in 1931.  The Landhaus Kössel was very comfortable, the breakfasts memorable.  Oh! that we could buy such Semmel in America!  The pace of the tour was perfect....  The content of the tour was beautiful and varied, always fascinating.  The programs presented at the Swarovski Exhibition in Innsbruck were, for us, among the highlights of the tour ….  In short, it was a wonderful time, and thank you for everything.
    – George & Pattie Betz, Maryland, December 2009

Truly a winter wonderland and a fairy tale come true. I could never have imagined being at Neuschwanstein and getting a picture worthy of a postcard.  The snow made it perfect! Seeing each of the castles throughout Bavaria was an "Architect's Dream".
Astrid Baur made the tour perfect with her friendly personal nature and her caring manner. The itinerary was diverse, the tour size was ideal, and the price was just right.
There are certainly many tour companies throughout Europe, but Astrid made it a personal experience.   And, how often do you hear your tour director telling you that we are headed "home" for the day, instead of calling it a hotel!"  I am seriously considering the tour of France in July.
    – Greg Luczyk, Virginia USA, December 2008

We thoroughly enjoyed the Castles Tour. We found the pace relaxing with plenty of free time to do our own sightseeing as well. We will never forget viewing some of the castles in the snow. The view from the trail to Mary’s Bridge was breathtaking. I have enclosed a few photographs for you.
    – Frank and Karen Rafalko, North Carolina, December 2008

Southern Bavaria is a beautiful region of Germany, and Ms. Baur provided an outstanding itinerary that captured a fulfilling coverage of the local history, lore, and charm of her native area....  Our tour became more like a "loose knit" group of friends than a herd of sheep being led about.  I attribute much of that to how proud Astrid is of her Bavarian heritage and traditions, and how she will welcome you to her corner of the world.  Treat yourself, enjoy Bavaria and the Castles.
     –  Will Entriken, North Carolina, December 2007  –   Read more ...

Dear Astrid .... Your tour and the efforts that you made on our behalf met all of our expectations and exceeded them.  Visiting Hopfen, Fussen, Hohenschwangau etc. and especially Neuschwanstein, was just like stepping into the land of Fairy Tales and Wagner.   Thank you for a most wonderful experience and, to those out there who are interested in a tour of the Castles of Bavaria,  I would say to you – “TAKE THIS TOUR.”
     –  Archie and Rosie Smith, North Carolina, December 2007  –   Read more ... 

Our tour was packed with all the best sights and food.  Every day included at least two major sites and dinner was always an adventure....  It was the perfect time of the year to be there.  We saw the same places without the huge crowds and although some shops were closed we were able to find plenty to do.  The real bonus was the beauty of everything frosted in white or wearing a little cap of snow.  Weather did not diminish out trip; in fact I think it added to the adventure.
     –  Vickie and Ron Olson, Nebraska, December 2007  –  Read more ...

I have taken two tours with Astrid and both have been wonderful.  If you would like a vacation that someone else worries about all the details and you sit back and enjoy the sights, then a European Castles Tour is for you.  Let a seasoned local get you past all the waiting and lines so you can see as much as possible during your trip.  Not a minute is wasted yet there is still free time to enjoy individual interests.  Lunches are on your own but hardly necessary as breakfast is so plentiful.  If you are considering another tour company, please consider the included traditional foods and drinks that are provided.  Also there are no budget-busting optional excursions with these tours.  Everything is included with no surprises!  Last but not least, the personal service and attention you will receive from your guide will be the icing on the cake.  After a day or two, you will feel like you are with friends and family - not on a "tour".  I can't wait to begin planning my third tour!
     –  April Cook, West Virginia, April 2011
        for herself and her mother, Patricia Coleman

We are back on US soil having had the most fabulous holiday we could ever have imagined.  We cannot thank you enough for making our Germany adventure so interesting, exciting, and fun.  You are an outstanding tour guide, and you seem to do it with such ease.  Eli had a wonderful time, he has told his parents every little detail....  We shall keep you in mind for future travel.
     –  Karen and Rex Athan, California, July 2009

I loved the tour.  It was great, and I had a really great tour guide.  So come on this tour!
     –  Elijah Newcomb, California, July 2009

I want to thank you for the tour.  It was truly wonderful!  I had a great time!  Can't believe how much we all saw in 10 days.  My pictures came out excellent! .... I am very much interested in doing your Bavarian Castles Tour.  It looks incredible.... Thanks so much for being a great tour leader!  I told all my friends about your tours.
     –  Kathy Spady Basto, Connecticut, June 2009

Astrid, Thanks for all your hard work to make our trip so enjoyable.  We are back to our daily routine work.  I am seriously thinking to make another tour next year with you again. Thanks again.
     –  Victor and Susana Lau, California, June 2009

Castles, breathtaking scenery, quaint towns, vintage wines, gourmet food, Paris, history, culture, 653 photos.  All this and more, in an awesome location with an amazing tour guide. The French Castles tour was an exceptional deposit in our memory bank and we cannot wait to follow Astrid again!
     –  Rick and Suzanne Handley, Texas, October 2009

Taking Astrid’s French Castles tour was a dream come true for me!  If you’d love to see Paris and Loire Valley, this is the tour for you!  Of the many organized tours I’ve taken, this was among the best!  The chateaux in Loire Valley were magnificent and the pace of the tour was just right.  Very little driving, centralized lodging in a fabulous location, and plenty of free time.  Astrid is very personable and everyone loves her.  Astrid’s travel groups are small and intimate, allowing each traveler to feel like they’re getting personal attention.  Astrid’s style and level of service outshines any of the large tour companies out there!  And she doesn’t charge optional excursion fees thereby increasing the cost of your tour!   I’ve taken two of Astrid’s European Castles tours and can’t wait to take another!
     –  Leslie Granger, California, October 2009

We have experienced two European excursions with the greatest tour guide in Europe, creating the most pristine package. Astrid's tours are not only fun-filled, but collectively will provide you the most educational tour possible. Her perfection in attention to detail is non-failing. She protects and truly cares for each individual's needs, unconditionally at every level. She provides, subsequently, only the best, equally caring narrators for portions of the world that require additional attention in touring. She manages to juggle a beautiful balance between tours, personal time, shopping, and group activity. Lastly, but not least of all, is her ability to create the most perfect well-rounded dynamic choices of highlights within each destination without any wasted traveling time.
     –  Diana and Gary Leis, Oregon, May 2010

The Italian Highlights Tour is a wonderful way to experience Italy for the first time visitor and the repeating visitor.  The agenda provides marvellous adventures through western civilization from the ancient ruins of Rome, the Christian pilgrimages, the hilltop towns, the architecture, the art, and topped with the magical city of Venice.  The itinerary is action packed with guided tours, excellent guides, time for personal exploration, and shopping.  The hotel villas were very accommodating and the meals were fantastic. Thanks again for the awesome adventures!  We are looking forward to our 4th tour with you in 2012!
     –  Joan and Vic Pepper, North Carolina, May 2010

Peter did an excellent job on our tour.  His knowledge of the sites and towns, personality, professionalism, and energy all combined to make this a truly memorable holiday for myself and Eric. Thank you.
     –  Roy Stimits, North Carolina
        Best of Germany and Austria private tour
        June 2011

Just a note to let you know how much we enjoyed the tour with Peter to the Eagle's Nest.  He was so kind and very personable.  He tolerated my many questions with grace, information, and humor.  The weather was bad but Peter made sure we had a good time anyway. We cannot wait to return to Bavaria and will surely book another tour when we do.  Please say hi to Peter for us.  Thank You.
     –  Tara Fox, North Carolina
         History and Mountains - Eagle's Nest and Bertesgaden day tour from Munich
        July 2011

We had a wonderful day yesterday although it was very cold.  The castles are amazing!  We loved to meet you, you look great!!!.  It seems I know you for a long time.  Peter is a wonderful and friendly guide and young man.  He helped us a lot and he knows the history of the castles to tell us.  We enjoyed to be with him.  We are happy of going on a tour with him....   Thank you for everything.  Hugs.
     –  Iara Araujo, Brazil
         Royal Fairy Tale Day in the Bavarian Alps day tour from Munich
         March 2011