The pastoral quality of german life

The pastoral quality of german life is, I believe, something not much noticed or heralded. Yet, not only does it exist, it thrives. Every weekend or whenever people have free time they head out into the countryside to hike and explore. And part of every hiking path that I have been on so far is a kneipe or a restaurant/bar. Yes, you believe that you are in the middle of nowhere and then you come upon a sign directing you to the balcony or dining room of a comfortable watering hole. At this time of year every self respecting country kneipe is serving new wine and zwiebelkuchen or onion pie. The new red wine is very tasty not very strong but rich and fruity and the zwiebelkuchen is an alsatian dish that is well worth trying. The german countryside is very beautiful and green and at the end of every trail is relaxation and enjoyment. Who ever said the germans did not know the richness of pastoral living?