Schloss Guteneck Weihnachtsmarkt

Though I know Nuremberg holds the title of "biggest Christkindlesmarkt" in Germany, I think the Weihnachtsmarkt (another word for Christkindlesmarkt or Christmas market) at the Schloss Guteneck, which our friends thankfully took us to on Sunday, should have the title of "most enchanting." Here is why:

1. There was a small entrance fee, which seemed to have warded off the masses
2. The market was situated around a privately-owned castle with no modern structures or stores to be seen, making it seem as though you were walking through history
3. The castle actually had booths and restaurants inside - and they were heated!
4. There was a bugle, trumpet, and trombone concert from the windows of the castle at 6:00
5. It was snowing
6. The Glühwein was cheaper (€3 compared to €5.50 in Nuremberg!)
7. There were two camels offering 5 minute camel rides. Yes, I admit this is touristy, but the camels were so peaceful (drastically different from those you can ride in Egypt) and their trail was lit by Christmas lights! Plus they looked like they popped out of a Christmas movie - check out the picture above!

Maybe it's just me, but this is what I really wanted to see from an authentic German Christmas market. If you have the opportunity to make it out to Schloss Guteneck (about 45 km east of Amberg, 35 km south of Weiden), you will not be disappointed!

Hours for this Christkindlesmarkt below, and be sure to check out the program of events beforehand!
Saturday, December 8th: 14.00 - 22.00
Sunday, December 9th: 11.00 - 21.00
Friday, December 14th: 17.00 - 22.00
Saturday, December 15th: 14.00 - 22.00
Sunday, December 16th: 11.00 - 21.00
Friday, December 21st: 17.00 - 22.00
Saturday, December 22nd: 14.00 - 22.00
Sunday, December 23rd: 11.00 - 21.00
Admission: €3 Fridays, €4 Saturdays, €5 Sundays