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German States In A Nutshell, Part 2

Monday, May 28th, 2012

Here it is, the much anticipated part two of my “German Federal States In A Nutshell.” There’s a lot of history, culture, and economics in each of Germany’s states. Isn’t it much easier to break it all down?

OK, OK, maybe I didn’t add every little nuance into all of them, they are snippets after all. ;-)

As a reminder, here’s Part 1 of German States.

Where did I leave off? Oh yeah…

Lower Saxony

If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a million times — Lower Saxony is best enjoyed by bicycle. All the better to see all this agricultural landscape. Whatever mode of transportation you’re using to see this state that includes Hanover, Göttingen, and Wolfsburg, will work all the same.

You’ll certainly eat good, there’s everything from potatoes to sugar beets, and wheat that are grown around here.

Take that, Schleswig-Holstein, MeckPomm, Brandenburg, Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia, Hesse, and North Rhine-Westphalia. Wow, would you believe that all those places border Lower Saxony? Yeah, me either.

North Rhine-Westphalia

Eighteen million people live within this most populated state, if you’d believe it. Not so hard to understand when you’ve got cities like Dortmund, Düsseldorf, Aachen, and Cologne — as well as lots of medieval architecture, half-timbered houses, and UNESCO World Heritage sites scattered throughout its many villages and towns.

Cologne is a big favorite. It’s got an annual film festival, a huge Carnival season (November to February), and the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe. If you want a picture — stand far back, its towers are 157 meters high (oh, and it took over 600 years to complete!).

Rhineland-Palatinate

This is a predominantly Catholic state that borders Baden-Württemberg, Saarland, Luxembourg, Belgium, and France. No wonder they appreciate the great wines that come straight from this region.

Viticulture might be big business here, but visiting charming cities like Trier, Speyer, Mainz, and Worms are also a must-see.

Saarland

The Saarland is Germany’s smallest state, which also borders France (as well as Luxembourg and the Rhineland-Palatinate). French is widely spoken here; and you’ll find cities like Saarlouis, Neunkirchen, Saarbrücken, and Sankt Wendel.

Saxony

No, this isn’t the land of the Saxons of the Germanic Tribes, but where you’ll be when you’re visiting Leipzig, Dresden, Zwickau, and Chemnitz. It’s also a wine region, has mountains, and castles. Sadly it isn’t known for being a top spot for tourists to Germany, though you’d miss out big time not to spend some time here too!

Besides, did you know that recent excavations have found 29 million year old fossils?

Hmm, maybe more people will come to visit from now on? :-)

Saxony-Anhalt

Saxony-Anhalt is proud of its rustic Harz Mountains, Martin Luther, and the Romanesque Route that winds its way through this state.

Consequently, you’ll want to pay a visit to Magdeburg, Wittenberg, and Halle.

Schleswig-Holstein

Bordering the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, this state is home to one of the most famous nude beaches in the country — on the Island of Sylt, if you’re wondering.

It’s also where you’ll find the annual Cabbage Festival (September), hear Low German, North Frisian, and Danish all spoken in the same place. Try a delightful dish known as Rote Grütze made with custard and berries (take your pick — strawberries, raspberries, currants, whatever, it’s yummy).

Thuringia

This is the last of Germany’s federal states — but certainly not the least. Known as Thüringen in German, Thuringia was once home to Martin Luther, since he went to school in Erfurt. Erfurt’s also where you find the country’s oldest synagogue (11th century), the Rennsteig (a gorgeous hiking trail), and great cities like Eisenach and Weimar.

Wouldn’t be the ultimate dream trip to visit all of Germany’s states? Don’t you wish you had that kind of time? Maybe I should get out from behind the computer — and travel more, huh? ;-)

Posted in Culture & Art, Dream Trips, Parks & Nature, Places To Live, Regional, Sights, Travel Tips | No Comments Yet »

German States In A Nutshell, Part 1

Tuesday, May 22nd, 2012

The fact that Germany has sixteen federal states it might be hard to keep track of what’s what, and where’s where. Sure it would be nice to visit the Bavarian Alps then shoot over to chill out on the North Sea coast, but considering they’re nowhere near each other — you’ve got a lot of ground to cover between them.

Ya get what I’m talking about? Good thing I’m here to help you understand each of Germany’s states, and their unique culture.

Oh wait, this is only Part 1 — so here are the first eight.

Baden-Württemberg

Some of Germany’s most famous cities are located within this state; Stuttgart, Heidelberg, and Freiburg to name a few. This is also a famous wine producing region, as well as where you’ll find the Black Forest and the Bertha Benz Memorial Route, Lake Constance, and a huge Oktoberfest that’s second only to Munich’s.

Bavaria

Yeah, speaking of Munich, Bavaria is where you’ll find this beer partying town that attracts millions of visitors for this September festival. But, beer isn’t its only attraction (shocked, considering this is where the German Purity Laws for beer started).

The Bavarian Alps dramatic landscape is extraordinary. No wonder some 12 million people live in this state that borders not only Lake Constance, Baden-Württemberg, Hesse, Thuringia, and Saxony — but also the Czech Republic, Austria, and Switzerland.

Geography aside, Bavaria’s home to the Franconian Wine Region, has delicious Weisswurst to eat, and your chance to see folks dressed in lederhosen and the traditional dirndl.

Berlin

Yes, I’m fully aware that Berlin is Germany’s capital city, though it’s also a federal state (totally surrounded by Brandenburg). I’m still not sure how the city has managed to have over 700 hotels, 135 million visitors a year, over 150 museums, and some of the liveliest nightlife — when over a third of it is covered by parks, gardens, lakes, and forests. What a unique mix!

Brandenburg

This state doesn’t include Berlin, mind you (wait, didn’t I just say that in the paragraph above). Brandenburg’s capital is Potsdam, but with countless parks, lakes, national parks (including the Spree Forest) you’ll have a heckava excellent time hiking or bicycling around this part of the country.

Bremen

Yet another state that’s also a city — and Bremen also includes Bremerhaven. The city of Bremen has been a free city for centuries (its Roland statue from 1404 proves it), and its Marktplatz is one of the most beautiful in the country.

Bremerhaven is a port town that’s a perfect setting for the German Maritime Museum. The weather’s great during the summer — where temperatures rarely (if ever) get above 30° C or 85° F. Quite cool if you’ve ever spent the summer in the European South. ;-)

Hamburg

Germay’s second largest city seems to have an even better climate than Bremerhaven (average summer highs are only in the 20s/70s); and has a cityscape that’s got to be seen to be believed. It’s a gay-friendly city with an opera house, almost 4 dozen theaters, and 60 museums.

While you’re here try the local Birnen, Bohnen und Speck — a dish made from pears, beans, and bacon. After a day of mudflat hiking at the Wadden Sea National Park, you’re bound to be starving.

Hesse

Inasmuch as Brandenburg is a nature lovers dream destination, Hesse could rival it in a heartbeat. Yeah, this might be where you’ll find cities like the cosmopolitan Frankfurt am Main, academic Darmstadt, and medieval Kassel — I’d pretty much say the Westerwald, Taunus Mountains, and the Vogelsberg are the real showstoppers.

Just one thing: you better behave yourself while your here; Hesse is the only state in Germany that still has the death penalty — YIKES!

Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

Bordering Schleswig-Holstein, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is Germany’s least populated federal state. Doesn’t that sound great when you want to get away from the masses? Hey, with over 280 nature reserves and 14 national parks — there ain’t no room for people, I guess. ;-)

Just kidding, but this state that’s got Chalk Cliffs, borders the Baltic Sea, and over a thousand megalithic monuments is often not given the respect it truly deserves.

Don’t worry, MeckPomm, as you’re lovely called… I’ll be right here on this blog to sing your praises — just as soon as I can tear myself away from your chalky cliffs, OK?

Stay tuned for Part 2 (next week). There’s so much more in store. :-)

Posted in Culture & Art, Dream Trips, Parks & Nature, Places To Live, Regional, Sights, Travel Tips | 2 Comments »

7 Unique Hotels In Germany

Saturday, March 10th, 2012

Check out just about any travel website and you’ll find some “Top 10” list of most beautiful hotels, creepiest hotels, or “Insert Type Of Hotel Here” kind of thing.

Germany is no different in this regard. It’s got all sorts of unique hotels for something other than some big-chain’s “looks no different than New York, Chicago, or London” type rooms.

For the really adventurous or folks tired of the “been there, done that” mantra, I got a few hotels in Germany that will make your stay… unique.

What got me thinking about this was hearing about the Canis Resort in Freising, a town close to Munich. One caveat: you can’t stay here — but your canine friend can; it’s a hotel for dogs.

While your pampered pooch stays here, you can make your way over to the Propeller Island City Lodge in Berlin. Twenty-five rooms all with different themes (a castle motif, a padded cell, a bed suspended by ropes) is a pretty amazing way to spend a night or two.

Also in Berlin is a hotel for art lovers. The Arte Luise Kunsthotel (with a view of the Reichstag) also has rooms where no two are alike, with names like Die Berliner, Three Monkeys, and Tree Woman.

The Igloo Village Zugspitze isn’t for the warm weather lovin’ crowd. Rooms in its 20 igloos are at a balmy 0°C (32°F), and the area has 360-degree panoramic views of the Alps. You can sled, ski, or snowshoe to your heart’s content, then eat up at the Glaciergarden Restaurant when you’re hungry.

For a prison experience without actually having to stay in prison, the Hotel Alcatraz in Kaiserslautern can accommodate. It does have regular rooms and suites, but you can stay in a Cell Room that’s stark just like what you’d find in a real prison. The hotel is near the Japanese Garden and Pedestrian zone — which you can enjoy since you’re not locked up behind bars.

When sleeping under the stars is more to your taste, do it at the Ein Bett im Kornfeld. It’s a “hotel” within a cornfield in Bad Kissingen. You’ll get an outdoor shower and hearty breakfast along with being able to sleep outside.

Oh, here’s the best one — the Roter Sand Lighthouse. This isn’t some shoreline lighthouse, mind you. It’s right out in the North Sea, and the only way to get there is by boat. There’s no electricity, no heat, and no drinking or smoking is allowed. If you can spend a few nights like this (bring your sleeping bag and towels), you’ll be treated to the crashing waves of the North Sea — and spectacular views from its observation deck. It’ll cost you, though, since your food and water are included in the price.

Talk about getting away from it all.

Got interested? I surely am. Here’s where you can book your hotel reservation in Germany.

Posted in Accommodations, Dream Trips | 1 Comment »

A Magical Mystery Tour Through Germany

Monday, January 16th, 2012

No, I don’t think the Beatles had Germany in mind when they penned their Magical Mystery Tour album in 1967. But, they could have.

Germany (or the land that IS Germany) has been around a very long time, and many places have seen the likes of Stone, Bronze, and Iron Age man (and woman), Celts, and Romans — each bringing their own aura of mystery to the land.

So, in honor of the Beatles — welcome to my Magical Mystery Tour.

Barbarossahöhle (Barbarossa Cave)
This vast network of caves northwest of Bad Frankenhausen in Thuringia has seen all sorts of ancient rituals and offerings from salt to hair, including human dating to around 3,000 years ago.

ISIS Temple & Mater Magna
Only discovered in 2000 (quite by accident) in Mainz, this Egyptian Goddess’ temple and one to the Great Mother was favored by Roman soldiers as late as the 3rd century A.D. Artifacts found have included everything from lamps to fruit (wow, talk about preservation).

Ohlsdorf Cemetery
While not a Roman or Celtic site, the Ohlsdorf Cemetery in the Ohlsdorf district of Hamburg is the final resting place for more than a million people (mostly the who’s who of Hamburg). It has 12 chapels, six memorials, museums, an area for World War I soldiers, and 17km of roads.

Mt. Untersdorf
Close to Berchtesgaden, there are more then 400 caves within the area of Mt. Untersdorf. One legend tells of the end of the world from here. It’s said to have haunted spirits, and even the Dalai Lama himself noticed the magical aura of the place.

Mühlhausen
In the town of Mühlhausen in Thuringia you’ll see a reconstructed Germanic Tribe village on the site of pagan sacrifices dating to the 6th century B.C. Want to learn more? Check out their website at www.opfermoor.de.

Witches Dancing Ground (Hexentanzplatz)
Yes, the Hexentanzplatz is a real place in the rustic Harz Mountains, near the town of Thale. The legend says that witches left from the spot before heading to Mt. Brocken to wed the Devil. Today you’ll find plenty of men, women, and children just having a good time.

Exernsteine
Found in Horn-Bad Meinberg in the Teutoburg Forest are the so-called Exernsteine — 13 pillars made from rock standing over 37-meters tall. It’s also where artifacts dating to 10,000 B.C. have been found.

I’m pretty sure I’ve missed about a gazillion other mystical places in Germany — so feel free to add any you know to the list. Then it’ll be OUR Magical Mystery Tour. ;-)

Posted in Dream Trips, Parks & Nature, Sights | 1 Comment »

The Luther Decade, An Epic 10-Year Event

Monday, October 31st, 2011

Starting back in 2008 Germany has been getting ready for the 500th anniversary of the Reformation on October 31, 2017. Yes, that’s right it’s an event ten years in the making, six years to go still.

Each year leading up to the epic event has all sorts of symposiums, festivals, movies, and other events in villages and towns that were important places in the life Martin Luther. A most remarkable man, if I do say so myself.

What is also remarkable are the folks who’ve created this decade long event, have even implemented theme years; each with their own special events. Stat tuned with me, I’ll keep you posted about many of the events throughout the upcoming years.

If you’re going to make your way through many of the towns that were instrumental in the Protestant Reformation sweeping Germany, you better make sure you’re here for a while.

I would start in the town of Wittenberg, where it all started. It was here in Wittenberg at the Castle Church that Martin nailed his 95-theses to the door looking for, well, reform of the Catholic Church.

No, scratch that. I guess it all started in Eisleben where he was born. Then again, Erfurt is where he lived as a monk, so here’s a town that was instrumental in the shaping of Luther’s life.

Some other places in the life of Luther weren’t so much as important in his work, as in his early life. He went to school in Magdeburg and lived in Mansfeld for a time.

Whichever route you choose to follow, like (but not limited to) the Lutherweg or the Luther Pilgerweg, it doesn’t really matter because the Center for Spiritual Tourism in Thuringia (it opened on July 3, 2011) is here to help you along the way.

I don’t think you need to be on some spiritual quest to enjoy the events of the Luther Decade. No, even if all you do is enjoy it for history’s sake; you’ll certainly learn quite a bit about the man who changed history and influenced the lives of millions of people.

Posted in Culture & Art, Dream Trips, Events | 1 Comment »

Lufthansa’s Airbus A380

Thursday, October 20th, 2011

Oh yeah, you’ve got your vacation time set, and Germany’s on the itinerary! Except one thing, how you getting there?

Now I don’t want to suggest one airline over the other, except that Lufthansa is the largest German airline (and one of the largest worldwide).

Oh, and the best part? They’re offering that new Airbus A380 for service from Frankfurt Airport to Singapore, Miami, San Francisco, New York (JFK), Johannesburg, Beijing, and Tokyo.

Whew, that’s a long list. Ain’t it grand, my international friends!?!

Most people aren’t able to fly either Business or First Class (although I know how to save a whopping 70 – 90% on the usual ticket prices), but I got to tell… the First and Business Class seats in this A380 aircraft are AWESOME!

In First Class there’s a seat that’ll stretch out to just about 2 meters with 17-inch video screens, a constant humidity level that won’t dry out your skin (women of the world, rejoice).

First Class offers privacy screens in case you don’t want to “be bothered” by your seat mate or anyone else for that matter. Plus, the cabin is made with materials to reduce noise (yeah, cause jet engines are known to be “quiet” ;-).

Unfortunately, the seats don’t recline to a fully flat position in Business Class (yet), but just about. Oohh, comfortable—even if you’re a bit taller than the almost 2 meter seat! This class takes up the entire upper deck of this super huge wide-body aircraft, which is pretty cool if you ask me.

Meals in either First or Business are a scrumptious affair (keep in mind I am talking about airline food) with fine wines and plenty of snacks.

People in Economy Class will find they got a little more leg room than in other aircrafts; mostly because of thinner seat backs. Don’t worry, you’ll eat fairly well in Economy Class as well.

As with any aircraft on Lufthansa you’re able to order special meals to accommodate any kind of dietary issue (low-fat, kosher, diabetic). You get the point, right? Besides, German food on the German airline can be a precursor to the awesome dishes you’ll find once you land.

So, I guess I’m saying fly Lufthansa for the best German experience—before you even arrive!

Posted in Dream Trips, Reviews | No Comments Yet »

Helgoland — Broken Or Not?

Thursday, September 15th, 2011

Germany, again, is looking at reunification; but it’s not what you might think. This is about the tiny, one square kilometer island of Helgoland (which is found in the North Sea, about 70km off the coast of mainland Germany).

Wait, that’s one island. Do they plan on being reunited with the mainland? That’s a heck of a long bridge.

No, nothing like that. German officials are looking to connect Helgoland with its neighboring island (which is also part of Helgoland), which it was once connected to back in the 18th century.

A nasty North Sea storm washed away the only land bridge connecting the two islands. Now three hundred years later, they very well might be together again.

So, why the sudden (as if 300 years is “sudden”) vote to reconnect? Simply put, tourism.

Detractors say that might not be the answer. More than a quarter of a million people come to Helgoland as a day trip for its unspoiled beauty. By connecting to its former appendage (oh, that would be island, sorry) there would be more room to build more hotels so that more people could spend the night.

I guess they’re afraid Helgoland would turn into a tourist trap. Oh, I’m so torn on this one, but it’s not up to me. The fate of the Helgoland islands is in the hands of the 1,200 people that call this place home.

Make that a couple more, ’cause I think some of my dear readers want to live there; and not because the average temperature in the dead of summer is only in the 60s. OK, that might just have something to do with it.

Psst, allergy sufferers — it’s been said that Helgoland has virtually no allergens. Ahh, can’t you already feel the sinus relief?

It won’t matter too much if the people of Helgoland vote to connect (or not) to the other island. Helgoland has prospered just fine the way it is. Remember, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

Oh, wait! Helgoland was broken. So I guess they do have to fix it, huh?

Posted in Dream Trips, Regional | 4 Comments »

The Amazing Beauty Of Scenic Routes In North Germany

Monday, May 9th, 2011

Traveling some scenic routes through North Germany will truly give you an accurate picture of why Germans are so proud of their beautiful country. You will view historic sites, visit places of fairytale fame and simply enjoy the scenery.

If coming from South Germany, you will come to our lovely northern section via the German Fairy Tale Road. If beginning your journey in northern Germany, you still have to be sure to include this route on your itinerary.

Starting in the south in Hanau, just a half hour east of Frankfurt, as you move northward, you will see settings along the way that take you to your childhood. The landscapes are reminiscent of the Brothers Grimm. In Kassel, for example, you must stop at the Grimm Museum.

With plenty of family activities to enjoy as you drive, you will find the kids are completely entertained with story-telling fun, puppet shows and much more, no matter what town you stop in. But stopping at the Sababurg (in Hofgeismar) is definitely a thrill for the young ones, as this is where Sleeping Beauty slept away 100 years.

The remainder of the Märchenstraße consists of lovely rolling hills and wonderful forested terrain, perfect for some outdoor activities, ending in Bremen and its Town Musicians.

The largest city in the north of Germany is Hamburg. There is plenty to do here as you take a breather from so much driving. You can shop, walk along the Elbe River, or just sit in a small cafe and enjoy some great food.

Driving from Hamburg to Berlin, you can take a short excursion north to Naturpark Lauenburgische Seen or Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park. Everyone will love the large lakes and extensive stretches of forestland.

Another side trip is to drive through the countryside of the state with the longest name, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, moving along the healthy coast of the Baltic Sea. An old narrow-gauge railway offers mesmerizing trips, running from the spa town of Bad Doberan to the equally relaxing town of Kühlungsborn.

While in Mecklenburg, be sure to visit Rostock. This town was founded way back in 1218. A walking tour of this town gives you another break from driving and allows you to stretch your legs.

There is so much to see in North Germany and about the best way to get around and not miss a thing is to rent a car and drive it. You are your own boss this way as well. It makes the experience a marvelous one! :-)

—Marcus

Posted in Dream Trips, Parks & Nature | 1 Comment »

Travel Idyllic Scenic Routes Through South Germany

Monday, May 2nd, 2011

Be sure to bring your camera along when you travel the roads throughout South Germany. The photos you’ll take will allow you to relive the wonders you experience on your trip for years to come.

Moving along the scenic routes in Southern Germany gives you the opportunity to see an engaging country, meet friendly folks and taste delicious food. A driving vacation gives you a special view of Germany that can’t be beat by any other means.

Flying into Frankfurt Airport [FRA], Munich Airport [MUC], or Stuttgart Airport [STR] are probably the most convenient ways to access the most popular southern drives. You will experience Bavaria and the Rhine Valley in a way never to be forgotten. Rent a vehicle so you can take your time to enjoy your travels.

The Rhine Valley will be your first stop. It is only about an hour from Frankfurt, driving northwest. Rüdesheim am Rhein is a good place to start your explorations. If you want to save all your driving time for other roads, you can always choose to take a river cruise between Rüdesheim and Sankt Goar. This is a beautiful boating tour, sure to give you something to remember with love.

While in Rüdesheim, be sure to take the cable car up to the monument sitting high above the Rhine. Some amazing views await you there. Great restaurants provide great food, too, so you won’t go hungry.

Next trip will be taking the Romantic Road. Romantic Road is like moving through the old days of Germany. View picturesque scenes of walled towns, gorgeous cathedrals and perhaps come upon a festival celebrating medieval times.

Head southeast from the Rhine Valley and you will drive for about two hours (stopping to take photos, of course) to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Here you can stop for the night.

While in Rothenburg, you should explore this medieval town. Take some delicious food at Market Square and visit St. Jakob’s Church. There’s even a museum showing the early ways of crime and punishment. Take a horse and buggy ride through town to really get the flavor of the olden days.

When you continue on your journey, you will start on the famous castle section of this popular road. Reaching the Neuschwanstein Castle, you have come to the end of this route, but will get to tour two marvelous castles for the price of one. Reservations will be needed, so ensure you book early, before starting your trip.

The German Fairy Tale Road will be the next route to include on your itinerary. This road begins in Hanau, just a half hour east of Frankfurt. The settings along the way will remind you of the Brothers Grimm, with the landscapes that were the inspiration for many fairy tales.

The kids will really love this trip, too. There are numerous family-friendly activities all along the way. Pick any town in which to stop to enjoy plays, puppet shows and story-telling events.

You will end up in North Germany as you travel this well-known path. It’s taking you to a new adventure in another part of lovely Germany.

Now you’ve seem some of the most remarkable scenic routes South Germany has to offer. :-)

—Marcus

Posted in Dream Trips, Parks & Nature | 2 Comments »

Hike In Bavaria And Experience Amazing Scenery

Monday, March 21st, 2011

Bavaria offers untold adventures among its landscapes. You will find historic sights, towering snow-capped peaks and abundant wildlife. When visiting Germany, this is one outdoor experience you shouldn’t neglect.

There are so many hiking routes to take advantage of around Munich and within lovely Bavaria, that it is impossible to list them all in one short article. But below you’ll find some of the best.

Close to Munich, there are a number of places to take off for a day trip for a walk along a marked trail. A favorite seems to be Jochberg Mountain. In the summer it might get a bit crowded, but it is an easy climb for the whole family. Allow yourself about an hour or even two and a half hours if you want to take it slow. Between May and September there will be no snow, making it easy to reach the summit.

Another Bavarian trail, this one starting in Gunzenhausen, takes you on a long trek of 198 km, but you don’t have to go the whole way. Called Altmühltal-Panoramaweg, this trail leads all the way to Kelheim. Visit ancient ruins, medieval houses, fortresses and darling little towns and villages.

Lake Ammersee offers some scenic hiking for the outdoor lover! Hike along the river Lech. Take an easy jaunt around the lake. It’s very relaxing to walk through gorgeous alpine pastures, across quaint bridges and into lush valleys.

The German section of the Allgäu Alps is one very popular place to go to get in some hiking. Lying on the German/Austrian border, these mountains have a varying terrain which attracts people from all over. If you don’t want to have too much difficulty, you can always hike among the smaller hills that rise from the pastures. These are the Allgäu Prealps and provide stunning views.

Traveling south from Munich, you will find that Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the perfect place to go in summer months for great hiking. In this deep valley, you can enjoy walking on trails around the blue, sparkling lakes or try something more strenuous, like climbing across some glaciers.

For some well-kept trails, you’ll find plenty around Lake Tegernsee. You can take some easy hikes or go for the longer and steeper trails. Many of these are cleared in the winter, making it possible for all-year-round hiking.

There are many trails in the Pfaffenwinkel area, where you will find enchanted forest landscapes and much natural beauty. The Lech-Höhenweg trail is one that provides breathtaking views of river valleys. Others trails include the König-Ludwig-Weg and the Prälatenweg.

Stop for a filling Bavarian meal with delicious beer when you hike around Lake Chiemsee. You can even take some time to enjoy other activities here, such as rafting the Tiroler Achen River, cycling or mountain biking.

The city of Starnberg is known as the heart of the Five Lakes Country, and you can hike a number of trails in this area. Strolling along the shores of the lake is quite a relaxing pastime.

Throughout Bavaria, you’ll find a wide choice of trails, from many easy and well-marked trails to those where you can set off on an adventure along unmarked pathways. Whether trekking in Berchtesgadener Land, in the Bavarian Forest or through Lower Bavaria, hiking in this region of Germany is something you simply can’t pass up.

—Marcus

Posted in Dream Trips, Parks & Nature, Sports | No Comments Yet »

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