Chalet Im Oberen Vogelpark

This is a quirky place - a chalet set up high in an old cemetery overlooking the picturesque South German town of Weingarten near Heidelberg. Or so I was told, as it was dark when I was taken there. We had to ask directions at the supermarket car park out of town and the man we asked showed us the way by letting us follow him in his car! Or we might never have found it. The last bit is up a very narrow road which leads into the car park. Then you walk along a dimly lit path with bird cages full of exotic birds (Vogelpark) The Chalet though is bright and cheery and wooden. It has a large terrace that overlooks the valley but it was too cold and dark to eat there on a late October evening so we ate inside. I think this place might well be full on a sunny lunchtime weekend, but we were early and when we arrived the only diners, though two more couples did arrive.The menu is small and has a South Tyrolean flavour (owing to the origins of one of the owners) The special of the day was veal. There were a couple of other meat dishes, one vegetarian option and some Flammenkuche (German pizzas) as well as salads. One of the party had a goat cheese and honey salad, and I had a beef goulash with home made dumplings and the final diner had bacon filled dumplings cooked in sage butter. The beef came with a white cabbage salad and a basket of bread. The white cabbage salad was grated white cabbage in a vinegary dressing with caraway seeds and tasted just as it has been described. Again as I have had on this trip to Germany, small menus, simple food well cooked and with good service. I tried the buckwheat tart to finish, but wasn't too impressed with that. I doubt I'll ever be there again, but if you get the chance - try it out.

Besides that the portions should be bigger we had a great stay in the Chalet. The staff is attentive, friendly and good with kids. Also dogs are welcome guests.

In order to get to the Chalet restaurant,on the hill above Weingarten village, you need to follow the river walkway round, passed the water wheel and the houses and you get to a turning which is indicated by a sign for the restaurant. Climb the steep hill, you will see the restaurant on your left, about 100 yds from the river walk. There are aviaries in the garden with all sorts of pheasants and budgies and peacocks, do take time to look at them and at the pond. The restaurant is run by two charming guys, the chef is from North Italy, the menu is simple, and reasonably priced. There is a nice view from the top, with a nice terrace with wooden tables and chairs. A very nice place for a lazy lunch or dinner on a warm evening.