It’s hard to imagine a classier guy than our own baron, Manfred von Crailsheim, owner of Schloss Sommersdorf, the centerpiece of our Castle Untour. Yes, the Baron opens his family’s 14th century castle and its beautiful grounds to our guests every year, placing them in the heart of Bavaria and giving them a truly unique entry point into Germany’s living history.
And talk about hospitality! The Baron is eager to show guests around, offer them a glass of wine and a bit of history. The Baron has a good sense of humor and is gracious and generous with his history lessons. He enjoys giving guests a tour of the crypt and other parts of his magnificent home.
But there is another very interesting thing to tell you about the Baron: He is an antique car aficionado. His private collection includes a 1904 Cadillac, a brass Ford Tin Lizzy from 1913, a Durant Rugby (6 cylinder) from 1926, and a 1909 Ford Town Car that is only one of 5 of that year still in existence. He also has a couple significant Mercedes and a 1986 ugly duckling Citroen 2 CV.
And the best part? Because the Baron is such a charming fellow and warm host, he is glad to show guests his cars. He has even been know to take guests on a short joy ride in a few of them.
So add vintage cars to your list of reasons to visit the Castle Untour. Take a look at the pictures below to see which of these you can name! And look for the Baron, in the driver’s seat, of course. The first photo shows him with his wife Lilo.
