I’m the first to admit that I find the Middle Ages fascinating. But anyone who knows what life was really like in those days, also knows that we tend to romanticize—a lot.
The old castle ruins of Hanstein I still use as the header for my website were my inspiration to write the ESCAPE FROM THE PAST time-travel trilogy. Located on a mountaintop with sweeping views of Thuringia and Hessen, they represent the best part of medieval history. At its feet sits the old Klausenhof Inn, a restaurant and hotel built in 1487.
Since we were visiting friends in Kassel, I thought it might be fun to spend the night in the old inn. We’d eaten there before and the food and home-brewed beer are worth a stop anytime. They offer Thuringia specialties and out of this world venison dishes. I stuffed myself with a Jägertopf, a hunter’s pot until I could no longer move.
Our sleeping quarters were on the third floor, up two flights of stairs that squeak to tell you their age. We actually signed an acknowledgement about the fire hazard the old and well-seasoned walls and floors present—five hundred thirty two years to be exact. To abide by modern laws, the inn installed an external fire escape staircase in back. Nonetheless, open flames and smoking are strictly prohibited. Who would blame them since spending time in these walls feels like staying in a historical monument. It is beautiful.
The floor of our room groaned with each step and reminded you that countless generations of tired pilgers have walked here before you. Windows are small and under the eaves. But do not worry yourself. We did not need to use the outhouse. Our room came with a modern tiled bathroom and shower.
The inn is a gorgeous historic building with eating rooms where lords and ladies dined as well as peasant quarters with sheepskin covered benches and an indoor well. I don’t know if I could take another night in the old-fashioned beds, but I would recommend visiting the Klausenhof Inn to anybody who is interested in medieval history.
The Klausenhof staff was super nice and you can sign up for wonderful events that celebrate the Middle Ages.
