Leavenworth, WA

Kitsch, you either love it or loathe it. To my dear two readers, I'm sorry to tell you that I love it and have loved it since I was a wee one. My grandfather introduced me to this fanciful world at an early age. Instead of confessing our sins on Sundays, we undoubtedly committed some by the "antiques" we purchased at the weekly flea market, much to my Mom's dismay. My favourite find was a picture of an African woman made out of butterfly wings. A tad morbid, but whenever I passed it in our hallway I would always pause and wonder. Where the wings from African butterflies? Did they kill the butterflies to make this picture? What's the connection between the African woman and butterflies? I could go on, but I think I've illustrated why I love kitsch. It's the lure of a story behind the absurdity. What then is the story behind the kitschy Bavarian village known as Leavenworth in central Washington?

It's a practical one actually. Local business owners learned of a another Bavarian village in California and felt it was the perfect way to revitalize Leavenworth's economy in the early 60's. Forty-seven years later, A&E channel named it the "Ultimate Holiday Town USA". (I love America for its endless possibilities.)

Being at the base of the Wenatchee National Forest and in the middle of the Cascade mountain range, Leavenworth inherits the best of both halves of Washington -- great hiking and great weather. Trails, lakes, and mountains encircle the tiny town making for an endless number of perfect days. And there's nothing like hard cider* and salted carbohydrates to toast your physical feats. Prost!

* Unlike many, beer isn't my beverage of choice after a hike. Though I'm certain you'll find your favourite or new favourite here.

Length of Stay

Two days

Docking Index

   

Four anchors, my first one. I feel a bit conflicted, but this is why I began this blog. Eventually the novelty wears off when you live with kitsch, so I can't fathom what's it like to live in kitsch. Maybe like working in Disneyworld? Shiver me timbers.