Exploring the Ostallgäu Region
Friesenried serves as a stunning gateway to the Ostallgäu district. While the town itself offers that quintessential German charm—think rolling green hills, pristine air, and the distant chime of church bells—the surrounding area is a treasure trove for explorers:
The Alpine Skyline: On a clear day, the Alps provide a dramatic backdrop that feels close enough to touch.
Cultural Excursions: Our itineraries often include visits to nearby gems like Kaufbeuren or the fairytale castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau, located just a short drive away.
The "Gemütlichkeit": This is a German word that doesn’t have a direct English translation, but you’ll feel it everywhere. It describes a state of warmth, friendliness, and good cheer—usually found in a local Biergarten or during a community feast
More Than Just Sightseeing
What makes these trips truly special are the shared events. From civic receptions at the Rathaus (Town Hall) to informal BBQ evenings and hiking trips through the Bavarian countryside, the focus is always on building bridges.
We travel to celebrate our similarities and learn from our differences. You’ll find that whether we are discussing local traditions in North Walsham or the history of the Allgäu region, the spirit of international friendship is what drives every mile of the journey.
Join the Adventure
The Twin Town Association is about keeping the spirit of connection alive. Whether you have been a member for years or are looking to make your first trip abroad with a friendly, local group, there is a seat on the coach for you.
Traveling to Friesenried isn't just a holiday; it’s a reminder that no matter the distance, we’re all neighbors.
Interested in joining our next exchange or supporting our local events?
Keep an eye on our social media pages for upcoming meeting dates and fundraising activities!
There is a unique kind of magic in "twinned" travel. It’s not the curated, sterile experience of a hotel resort or the rushed pace of a typical tourist itinerary.
Traveling to Friesenried with the North Walsham and Friesenried Twin Town Association is about something deeper: it’s about subverting the role of the "tourist" to become a "guest."
If you’re considering joining our next exchange, here is what you can expect from a journey to the heart of Bavaria.
The Warmth of a Bavarian Welcome
The most striking part of a twin town visit is the hospitality. Forget checking into a lobby; here, you’re welcomed into the homes of local families. This "home-stay" element is the heartbeat of the association.
In Friesenried, you’ll find that the language barrier quickly dissolves over a shared meal. Whether you’re staying in a traditional farmhouse or a modern apartment, the connection is immediate. You aren't just seeing how Bavarians live; you’re living it with them—from the first cup of coffee in the morning to the final Gute Nacht.
From Norfolk to Bavaria: A Journey of Friendship with the Twin Town Association
My first trip - Steve
Around 1989 I met two Swiss ladies, one speaking 5 languages and the other 7. Naturally my wife and I were very impressed and humbled by the British laziness toward foreign languages. So much so, that we decided to learn a language We chose German and after 3 years I said we are learning German is it not time to take a holiday there. In 1994 we took ourselves to Germany, enjoyed it so
much, the people, food and sights were wonderful. On our return I was looking for more ways to practice my German when my wife mentioned that North Walsham was twinned with somewhere in Germany. Enough said, we visited the town clerk, joined up and joined the group travelling there two months later.
We were hosted by Brigitte and Horst, a lovely couple who we became the best of friends with.Sadly Horst passed away a few years ago but our friendship goes on. At the time the hosts had a choice of three new families. When we asked why they had chosen us we were informed because our surname was the most difficult to pronounce. That certainly broke any ice and resulted in many exchanges to each others’ homes. Since 1994 my wife and I have not missed a visit. The people are wonderful, the hospitality second to none (not to mention the cakes) and Friesenried, in it’s own spot in Baveria, is beautiful. If you like travelling, meeting new people and visiting new and interesting places the The Friends of Friesenried is for you.
Steve
Chairman
