And , finally , our chance to explore Hamburg ’ s environs . Member Brenda Benthien offered to share the gem in her backyard : the Ahrensburg Schloss . Built in 1585 by Peter Rantzou , envoy of the king of Denmark , the mansion , with its four elegantly designed corner turrets , stayed in his family until the mid-eighteenth century . Until 1932 , it was renovated and maintained by the Schimmelmann family . Today it offers an unparalleled exhibition of aristocratic culture , with original furniture and porcelain serviceware , demonstrating the charm of bygone centuries . We enjoyed the tour in English — and many stayed for coffee and cake in the town of Ahrensburg before heading back on the train .
A gallant group joined me for the 25 kilometer bicycle trip from Hamburg to Ahrensburg before the tour . Following green arteries along the Eilbek Canal and then the Wandse River , we crossed the Höltzebaum green space and the Stellmoor Tunneltal before hitting our destination . Beautiful weather and beautiful landscape . Thank you to you all !
A Scrumptious Dim Sum Lunch
By Adrienne Wright Bulow Membership chair
Thanks to Stella Kwong-Riechmann , we had a culinary experience to be remembered . The Dim Sum Haus lunch in St Georg was delectable . Various steamed delicacies arrived in short intervals in abundance . The traditional Hong Kong Chinese restaurant is very authentic , according to Stella . There is talk about it becoming an annual thing . I do hope so . It was also lovely to meet some of the husbands and be surrounded by some of our long-time members ’ stories . Carol Battenfeld kept me entertained throughout . What a great afternoon .
Ahrensburg Schloss tour and bike trip Photos by Carol Harbers