The collection of Gerdi and Hans

Gerdi and Hans maintain this great collection in the south of Bavaria. I love to see their garden where there is so much space and the trees are really exhibited and not just deposited like in my own garden. At the moment their collection consists of Japanese trees only. This will change soon and more European trees will be added.

Jim Dolye at Walter Sedlaczek's and the end of the tour

Jim at last visited Walter who lives in Holzkirchen, which is just south of Munich, Germany. Walter has been doing bonsai since three years only. His collection in no way reflects the skills he already has.

This was the end of the journey. Almost 4,000 kilometers 2,500 miles), six countries in ten days. It was not a vacation, but we had more experiences than most have in many years. I worked thourgh almost 1,000 photographs which I edit individually with photoshop. This takes more time than just taking the shots. Anyway, it was a trip that none of us will forget. Thank you all for your hospitality, Thank your Walter for the driving. We went with Walter's car because the air conditioning is so much better. And it was necessary.

Jim Doyle at Josef Mairhofer's

Going north towards Germany Jim Doyle, Walter Sedlaczek and WP arrived at Josef Mairhofer's in Tyrol, Austria. The famous potter and his wife Renate were great hosts.

Jim Doyle at Mauro's and on Passo Rolle in Italy

Mauro Stemberger was not home but we could see his raw material collection. Most stunning trees were there. Here a couple of glimpses. Then we went north over Passo Rolle in the Dolomites, which are a brilliant part of the Alps.