Cologne to Bonn and Bruhl Palaces: Private day trip

Augustusberg, designed by Bavarian court architect Francois de Cuvillies for the Cologne Elector and archbishop Clemens August, though begun in 1725 was not completed until 1768. It was worth the wait. In the interval some outstanding European artists contributed to its beauty. Balthasar Neumann was responsible for the design of the magnificent staircase, the most enchanting set of steps anywhere in Germany. Just a short stroll away from Augustusberg sits Falkenlust on the lip of a secluded grove. Also designed by de Cuvillies, this was the sporting archbishop’s personal hunting lodge, built, cunningly enough, on the flight path of herons, the favourite prey in falconery. After the rigours of the hunt the archbishop and his guests would be wined and dined in the Lodge’s lavishly-appointed rooms, admired by the young Mozart and which, perfectly preserved, can be equally admired today. As can the whole complex, a magical visual dance of architecture, sculpture, painting and garden design.