The OstseeResort Olpenitz is located directly at the marina on the Baltic Sea in Holstein. In Olpenitz you will find the right accommodation for every budget and every type of holiday – whether for a spontaneous short trip, a long weekend, a relaxing summer family holiday or a quiet season break. Relaxation and an unforgettable time are guaranteed at the OstseeResort Olpenitz.
The holiday paradise Olpenitz – what will you find there?
If you set course for the OstseeResort Olpenitz, your exclusive accommodation in the holiday park awaits you directly at the sailing and sports boat harbour on the Baltic Sea. Here you are between Flensburg and Kiel, on a former naval base in an idyllic landscape. A small bay with a sandy beach offers space for digging, sunbathing and relaxing, and the long sandy beach – Weidefelder Ostseestrand, is only 2 km away.
Some facilities such as a supermarket, bakery and restaurants are already located in Olpenitz, but the proximity to Kappeln makes it possible to discover this charming fishing village. Historic buildings, shops, museums and culinary delights await you here.
In the area – leisure and much more!
In the surroundings of the OstseeResort Olpenitz you can do many things that will make your holiday an unforgettable experience.
• You can explore the whole area by bike or on foot, because as they say, the journey is the reward, because the beauty of the typical North German landscape attracts everyone’s attention.
• When the numerous rapeseed fields shine in a wonderful yellow and the herring float down the Schlei, the small town of Kappeln invites you to the traditional and famous “Kappeln Herring Days”.
• You can take a nostalgic ride on the Angeln steam railway from Kappeln to Süderbrarup and back. There is even a cart for bicycles, so you can diversify your trip.
• The traditional fish market in Kappeln takes place every last Sunday of the month.
• Take the Schlei boat line from Kappeln to Schleimünde or Schleswig. From Kappeln in the direction of Schleimünde, the ship docks in the small town of Maasholm.
Where can you stay at Olpenitz?
In this holiday resort in Germany you will find many different holiday homes. At the OstseeResort Olpenitz you will find semi-detached houses, chalets, floating houses and apartments – all stylishly furnished and with numerous extras such as whirlpool, sauna and fireplace. Luxury and nature at the same time – that’s what the floating houses offer. If you want to live like on a ship, you should rent a houseboat in Olpenitz. They offer water on all sides, terraces where you can enjoy the gentle breeze of the Baltic Sea, and the Scandinavian feeling of traveling with a wooden boat under your feet.
The modern ambience, the stylish furnishings and the high-quality furnishings create holiday comfort at the highest level as well as a special feel-good atmosphere. The houses are equipped with everything you need for a promising holiday – they are modernly furnished and have all the necessary electrical appliances that allow you to prepare your own meals. You can also dine on the terrace and admire the beautiful greenery of the surroundings and the pleasant weather.
Discover the Baltic Sea resort of Olpenitz on four paws
Do you have a four-legged family member who absolutely has to come with you on holiday? No problem! At the OstseeResort Olpenitz your dog can also experience a great holiday. Simply rent one of the pet-friendly accommodations at the holiday park. Up to 2 pets are welcome there free of charge, there are special places for exciting games and walks.
Enjoy fun beach walks and lots of entertainment on the nearby dog beaches, such as the Weidefelder dog beach. Explore the nearby towns such as Kappeln or Maasholm together with your four-legged friend and enjoy your holiday at the OstseeResort Olpenitz.
Ideal for family holidays with children
At the OstseeResort Olpenitz you can also spend a great family holiday. Boating, digging on the beach, eating a fish sandwich at the harbour and family accommodation – what more could you want? Your little ones will have fun playing crazy games, running in the sand and taking walks in the area. The OlpeKids house, for example, is ideal for families with children. Plenty of space, a playroom with climbing frame, a handcart, a playground and a jumping mat make children’s hearts beat faster. The adventure mini golf course on the grounds is also particularly popular with families. And the beach is just a few minutes walk away.
A pleasant holiday for two
Holiday homes in Olpenitz, Image: Philipp_Konietzko / shutterstock
Would you like to escape the gray everyday life and let yourself and your loved ones be pampered? Are you dreaming of a cozy evening in front of the wood stove in winter or a stormy walk on the beach with a dreamy sunset? As a crowning finale, a sauna or whirlpool awaits you. You can enjoy all this at the OstseeResort Olpenitz. Regardless of the time of year you visit this wonderful facility, your holiday is a guarantee of absolute relaxation.
Whether it’s a romantic weekend getaway or a longer stay, the first-class accommodations with their own wellness area at the OstseeResort Olpenitz leave nothing to be desired.
How to get to the OstseeResort Olpenitz
If you come by car, you can enjoy a comfortable trip. If you are coming from the south, take the A7 in the direction of Flensburg and take the Rendsburg/Büdelsdorf exit. Then follow the B203 to Kappeln and turn right towards Ellenberg. Now all you have to do is follow the Baltic Sea Road until you reach the OstseeResort Olpenitz.
Coming from the north, also take the A7 in the direction of Hamburg to the Schleswig/Schuby exit. Take this and follow the B201 to Kappeln. Turn left towards Ellenberg and follow the Ostseestraße to your holiday home in Olpenitz.
The US state of North Dakota is located in the far north of the USA on the Canadian border. Due to its geographical location, this state has a rather cool climate. North Dakota was named after a Native American tribe. The Dakota tribe, which has lived in the area of present-day North Dakota since time immemorial, and served as the namesake for the US state, belongs to the Sioux Indians. North Dakota is considered very sparsely populated, but this does not detract from the state’s attractiveness for tourists. Rather the opposite. Because if you long for peace and solitude, want to find out about the history and culture of the North American natives or experience endless expanses in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, this is the place for you.
Among bison, mustangs and coyotes in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is named after the 26th President of the United States. He loved the region in which today’s park is located so much that he owned a ranch there, the Elkhorn Ranch, which he often visited to relax. Remains of the ranch can still be visited today. It seems a little unusual for a national park that Theodore Roosevelt National Park is not a contiguous area, but three parks that have been merged into one, so to speak.
Visually and scenically, you feel like you’ve been transported to a Wild West movie, because the national park consists primarily of wasteland and badlands. These landscapes are ultimately what Westerns refer to as the wide prairie. If you want, you can explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park extensively on foot, because there are no less than 150 kilometers of well-signposted hiking trails to explore here. However, the park is still home to American wild horses, also known as mustangs. If you want to get particularly close to them, you can take part in a guided excursion on horseback.
Another highlight are the bison, once extinct here, but reintroduced in the 1950s, which were hunted by the Indians in earlier times and served as their diet and clothing. The best way to soak up the atmosphere of the park is to spend a night under the stars. Spending the night in the park is no problem, because there are a variety of campsites.
Fargo: The secret capital of the US state of North Dakota
Bismarck, capital of North Dakota, Image: Ace Diamond / shutterstock
Fargo is not the capital of the state of North Dakota, that would be Bismarck, but with around 120,000 inhabitants it is the largest city in the state. In addition, the cultural heart of North Dakota beats here, which is why a visit to Fargo should not be missed if you are ever in North Dakota. Among locals, Fargo is considered the secret capital of North Dakota. The city is particularly known for its lively art scene.
The Plains Art Museum exhibits about 3,000 works of art, mainly by contemporary artists. Many of them are of Indian origin. In addition, there are also artistic highlights by European art greats, such as Salvador Dali’s, to see. However, the often breathtaking works of art are not only on display in the premises of the museum itself. Many of them also hang in chic craft beer bars, shops or restaurants in downtown Fargo. If you want to get an idea of the life of the pioneers in the North of America, Bonanzaville is the right place for you. This is a pioneer village true to the original, in which there is also a thematically appropriate museum.
Unique, the National Buffalo Museum
The National Buffalo Museum in Jamestown is one of those kinds of museums that you won’t find on every corner. Of course, this has to do with his exhibition focus, the bison. For the Native Americans of North Dakota, the bison, and also the hunting of them, were of utmost importance. The museum explains all the details about the importance and history of bison in the region. In addition, stuffed bison and original exhibits from the times of bison hunting can be seen. The National Buffalo Museum is housed on the grounds of an open-air museum. In the Frontier Village open-air museum, you can travel back in time to the 19th century, because all the buildings there date back to this time. They are the remains of a village with residential and administrative buildings as well as shops.
In the footsteps of Scandinavian immigrants
Stave church in the Scandinavian Heritage Park, Image: Yosoyana / shutterstock
In the American state of North Dakota, the Scandinavian community is still strongly represented today. Once upon a time, many Scandinavians came to this area as pioneers. Among other things, they have brought with them the tradition of Scandinavian stave churches. The most famous specimen in North Dakota can be seen in the Scandinavian Heritage Park in Minota. In addition, several statues of famous Scandinavians are gathered here. The park’s walking paths also lead past Danish windmills, a museum where you can learn about the tradition of immigrants from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland, as well as a 27-metre-high Swedish wooden Dala horse.
If you look at aerial photos of Sibenik, you might think you have a map section of Norway in front of you. Like the well-known archipelago islands, the rocks rise out of the Adriatic Sea. The city itself is located on a bay that is only connected to the Adriatic Sea by a strait. A fjord, that’s how the strait can be associated. And yet, Sibenik is located in Croatia in the Dalmatia region.
Sibenik is located between the major cities of Zadar in the north and Split in the south. The town nestles against a bay that also forms the mouth of the Krka River. The Sveti Ante canal connects the bay with the Adriatic Sea. There are numerous inhabited and uninhabited islands just off the coast, foothills of the so-called Kornati Islands, a national park.
History
First mentioned in a document in 1066, Sibenik looks back on an eventful history. The Croatian King Petar Kresimir IV stayed in the fortress of St. Michael at that time. Today the castle bears the name of Saint Anne.
For a long time, Sibenik was under Venetian, later Austro-Hungarian rule. From 1918 to 1991, it belonged first to the Kingdom and later to the Socialist Republic of Yugoslavia. After a momentous war, however, Croatia became an independent state again with the capital Zagreb. Today, Sibenik belongs to Croatia again. Since the end of the 1990s, the Adriatic coast of Croatia has become increasingly popular with tourists, which is due to both the beaches and the medieval towns.
Sights in Sibenik
The Cathedral of St. James, Image: xbrchx / shutterstock
It is worth spending a lot of time walking through the old town. It is noticeable that Sibenik is a hilly city. Countless stairs connect the old town alleys with each other. The house facades in the medieval streets give an idea of how medieval life took place here. Again and again, views of the bay and the Adriatic Sea behind it open up.
But the numerous architectural monuments are also worth a targeted visit. A fortification with four forts surrounds the town: St Michael (St. Anna), St. John, St. Nicholas and the Baron Fortress. While St. Michael is already mentioned under the Croatian King Petar Kresimir IV, the other fortifications date from the time of Venetian rule (15th to 18th century). The ensemble of the four fortresses is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The late Gothic Cathedral of St. James is also a World Heritage Site. It was built in over 100 years in the 15th century. The dome was severely damaged in the Croatian war, but it has since been restored.
In addition to numerous other churches – the Franciscan monastery with monument to Petar Kresimir IV is also worth seeing, for example – a visit to the Old Town Hall is worthwhile. The Town Hall Square is surrounded by arcades that give it an unmistakable appearance. The Renaissance building was built in the 16th century.
The Sibenik Bridge crosses the Krka River. The arch bridge offers a unique view of the city, the Krka Valley and the Adriatic Sea.
Excursion destinations in the area
The Winnetou films were filmed in the Krka National Park, Image: Seumas Christie-Johnston / shutterstock
Sibenik is located in the immediate vicinity of two national parks. The Krka National Park leads into the Krka Valley with several gorges and waterfalls. The biodiversity of plants and animals led to the establishment of the protected area in 1985, which is now also developed for tourism.
The Kornati National Park was established as early as 1980. The archipelago, consisting of 89 rocky islands, is located north of Sibenik. Boat trips are offered, so the protected area can be explored. The islands are mostly made up of limestone cliffs. There is hardly any vegetation. However, the Kornati Islands are known for their species-rich bird population.
Lake Prukljan is located off the coast of the city of Sibenik and is fed by the Krka River, among others. It is the fourth largest lake in Croatia.
The Dalmatia region also includes neighboring cities such as Split and Zadar, which are worth visiting.
Tips
If you spend your holiday in Sibenik and keep thinking that some places look familiar to you, you probably used to watch the Winnetou films with Pierre Brice. Kornati Islands, Krka National Park, the karst mountains in the surrounding area are filming locations for the film adaptations of the Karl May classics. In the cities of Dalmatia, numerous tours are offered that are informative and nostalgic at the same time. Maybe the upcoming vacation in Sibenik is an occasion to watch “The Treasure in Silver Lake” again.
If you need a break after the strenuous sightseeing, you can fall back on several beaches in Sibenik.
In Sibenik, there are some open-air performances and festivals in the summer. Among other things, a children’s and youth festival will take place in August, which is particularly aimed at young people. It is worth taking a look at the tourist information office’s calendar of events
Ahhh, some of the most ingenious ideas and architectures of the last few decades have ensured that various casinos around the world offer some of the most amazing travel experiences that one could ever wish for. After all, casinos are designed for entertainment, and this carries over to their design, which is often built with an eye on the impressive.
After all, they’re designed to attract thousands of people every month, and in a highly competitive market, they’re more likely to attract the most customers if they stand out. Let’s take a look at some of the best of the best!
The Venetian in Macau, Image: jeafish Ping / shutterstock
One of the largest casinos in the world, this Venetian fantasy is modeled after The Venetian Las Vegas (which itself is of course Venice is based on it!) With 3000 suites, plenty of space for conventions, luxury retail stores (including Givenchy, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes), and 51000 square feet of casino space, you could spend a week here without seeing and experiencing it all.
Fancy a gondola ride? That’s not a problem. Simply hop aboard an authentic gondola and follow the waterways inside or the lagoon outside—maybe your gondolier will even serenade you while you relax. Macau itself is full of online casinos, but we guarantee that you’ll never forget The Venetian if you’re lucky enough to come here!
Atlantis Paradise Island
Paradise Island with the Atlantis Resort in the background, Nassau, Bahamas, Image: Pola Damonte /shutterstock
Who wouldn’t want to travel to the Bahamas ? If you go there, you can enjoy Atlantis Paradise Island, where you can alternate entertainment at the casino with fun at Aquaventure, a 62-hectare aquatic landscape. This island paradise is home to both saltwater and freshwater lagoons, swimming pools, water and river slides, and marine habitats.
It is possible that you will find it difficult to drag the family home at the end of the holiday! It is an extremely family-friendly destination that has a lot to offer throughout the day, and the adults can enjoy themselves in the casino in the evenings.
Sun City
About two hours from the nearest major city, Sun City offers you an unparalleled experience with the Lost Palace. With the attractions that the African bush has to offer, this is an extravaganza of nature-related statues, art, mosaics and a generally over-the-top celebration of African wildlife.
Marvel at the larger-than-life effects as you take a break at the Lost City Entertainment Centre and cross the Bridge of Time, which is surrounded by mighty elephant statues and regularly shakes when a mock volcano erupts – these and other attractions make Sun City a memorable visit. Of course, the casino will also be a fun experience, as will the perfect weather and warm hospitality.
Casino of Monte Carlo
On the other end of the spectrum than the more family-oriented experience in Sun City is the old and luxurious Casino de Monte Carlo in Monaco. Since it has been featured in many movies, the sight of the casino is not unheard of when you finally reach the entrance with its many towers. It’s a visual feast with crystal chandeliers, fountains, a spectacular portico, and enough gold to keep everyone happy. It’s an over-the-top extravaganza that you’ll be talking about for years to come.
Did you know that the citizens of Monaco are not allowed to enter the casino’s gaming rooms? So don’t expect to strike up a conversation with locals here!
Of course, if all of this is too far away for you, you can also try an online casino that offers you the same entertainment without getting you into trouble!
The Bellagio
If you travel to Las Vegas, we have the Bellagio, which you may also know from the movies it has starred in. The Bellagio is one of the most luxurious casino resorts in Las Vegas and is known for its beautiful fountains that play elaborate sequences.
With an abundance of culinary offerings, this is a place to linger while you try all the options – and the gambling is exceptional, too! There’s also an abundance of high-end shops to browse, and five different pools to linger at. Children under 14 are not allowed at the pools, so this is an adult experience.
Mississippi is one of the states in the United States. It belongs to the group of southern states and has around three million inhabitants. The capital, which is also the largest city in Mississippi, is called Jackson. The state was named after the famous Mississippi River. It is also known as Magnolia State.
Geography and climatic conditions – flat, warm and rainy
The Mississippi, here at the Vicksburg Bridge in Vicksburg, Image: TLF Images / shutterstock
The US state of Mississippi is characterized by a flat texture. Only in the northeastern part are there several elevations, but they are not particularly high. Hikers, climbers and mountaineers prefer other holiday regions in the USA. In the south, Mississippi has a narrow coastal strip. It borders Tennessee, Alabama, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
In terms of climate, Mississippi is considered one of the warmest regions in the country. The humid and subtropical climate ensures lush vegetation, but also high humidity and a variety of rainfall.
Population Groups, Religious Community and Living Conditions – Mississippi as the Cradle of the Lower Class
Nearly 3 million people reside in Mississippi. 37.5% of the population have dark skin color or are described as African American. As a result, Mississippi is the US state with the largest proportion of dark-skinned residents. The dominant religious community is the Southern Baptist Convention, which has around 920,000 members. In second place is the United Methodist Church, followed by the Catholic Church.
If you compare the living conditions in Mississippi with other states, it doesn’t look very good. In terms of finances, education and health care, the state is lagging behind in the lower ranks. About one fifth of the population lives below the poverty line.
The history of Mississippi – eventful life in the past and present
The Native Americans of Mississippi were the Caddo, Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Natchez Native American peoples. The first European settlers came from France. In the 18th century, there were repeated clashes between them and the Natchez, after which the Indian people no longer really existed and the French left the area. In the course of time, the British and Spanish also took over parts of the area, with the plantation system with slavery introduced by the French. Until the American Revolutionary War, Mississippi was known as the largest producer of cotton in the States.
In December 1817, the territory was admitted to the Union. In the 1830s, the inhabitants benefited from an economic boom. About ten years later, over-indebtedness followed, which is why Mississippi had to file for bankruptcy in 1840. In 1861, the state, like South Carolina before it, broke away from the Union.
In 1966, Mississippi was the last U.S. state to abolish prohibition. A year later, mixed marriage, which had been prohibited until then, was permitted.
It was not until 1995 that the abolition of slavery was initiated. Because the decision took a long time to serve on the Federal Register, the new law did not go into effect until February 7, 2013.
The 21st century has so far been dominated by Hurricane Katrina, which destroyed a large part of the country in August 2005, and the debate on racism that arose after the death of African American George Floyd. As a result, the old state flag of Mississippi was replaced by a new flag.
Sights in Mississippi – Insider tip for tourists in the USA
Gulfport in Mississippi, Image: George Dodd III / shutterstock
Mississippi may not be one of the most visited destinations in the United States of America, but it has become a real insider tip over the years and has a lot to offer.
In the capital Jackson is the Mississippi State Capitol, which acts as the seat of government. It is located on the High Street and was built in the 19th century. If you are interested in history, you should definitely book a guided tour. The tour guides provide holidaymakers with a variety of interesting information. Another argument in favor of the tour is that it is offered free of charge. In terms of architecture, there is also a lot to discover about this building. A popular photo motif is the Eagle at the top of the Dome.
In the past, the seat of government of Mississippi was located in the Old State Capitol, which now houses a museum and bears the name Old Capitol Museum.
The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies is one of the highlights in Gulfport, Mississippi’s second-largest city. People of all ages feel at home here. The well-kept grounds are home to various animals that are at home in the sea. Children in particular enjoy shows with inhabitants of the water. Many visitors take the opportunity to fulfill a dream and swim with dolphins in a pool.
Lovers of long walks on the beach are primarily drawn to Biloxi. There, the water is nice and warm, and the sand slopes gently into the sea. Vacationers with young children love to spend their time on this stretch of coastline, which is located on the Gulf of Mexico . The water is not deep enough for swimmers, but you can take a relaxed walk along the shore.
A real special feature can be found in Vicksburg. In the National Military Park, holidaymakers can expect a journey into the eventful past, which is particularly evident in the battlefields and memorial stones. A guided tour led by an expert guide takes about two hours.
Named after the first settlement in Mississippi, the city of Natchez has a reputation as a true architectural gem. This is due to the fact that numerous buildings of antebellum architecture from the 19th century are in very good condition. A large part of it was built in the Greek Revival style.
A trip to the USA does not necessarily have to lead to New York City, Florida or California. States like Mississippi are real rough diamonds and definitely deserve a chance to get to know each other better
One of the holiday trends of recent years is group travel. It is the ideal way to explore the world either together with friends or as a solo traveler. After all, there is a lot to explore on holiday – so it’s nice to find people to talk to in the evening with whom you can exchange ideas about what you have experienced.
Hardly any other country has as many sights to offer as the United States of America. Whether metropolises like New York or San Francisco or the impressive natural highlights and national parks.
However, you need an entry permit to enter the USA. With an ESTA group application , the complete registration for the entire travel group can be completed quickly. This is also a great time saver for companies that want to send a higher number of employees to the States for a meeting.
The ESTA application is also ideal for vacationers who only have a short stay in the USA and want to travel on to Mexico the following day, for example. So you can spend the time outside the airport in the evening.
We have summarized the most important questions about the ESTA application:
The Golden Gate Bridge, Image: Travel Stock / shutterstock
The abbreviation “ESTA” means “Electronic System for Travel Authorization” and is the electronic travel authorization system of the Department of Homeland Security of the USA. It was introduced to improve security screening for travelers to the United States from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program. Since 2008, ESTA has been the alternative to the time-consuming US visa application.
With this travel authorization system, travelers from Germany can apply for entry. In addition to German citizens, residents of the following countries can also apply: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, and Hungary.
How long do you stay in the USA with an ESTA authorization?
With the ESTA authorization, a stay of up to 90 days in the USA is possible.
What is required for the ESTA application and what are the requirements for the traveler?
Completed application form (request for personal data such as full name, address, dates of birth)
A current and valid passport
Credit card to pay the fees
Sufficient financial resources to finance travel, stay and departure
The trip to the USA must be for tourism or business reasons
Entry must be made by an approved means of transport (arrival e.g. by flight or ship).
How long do you stay in the USA with an ESTA authorization?
With the ESTA authorization, a stay of up to 90 days in the USA is possible.
How do I apply for an ESTA group?
The application can be made either through the Department of Homeland Security or through an ESTA service provider. As a group, you appoint a group manager in advance. This is the direct contact person and takes care of the entire process (for example, an organizer of a group trip). In order to apply, the group administrator will need the passport details of all travelers and a credit card to pay the fees. Within one application, a residence permit can be issued for up to 50 people.
How much lead time do I have to consider when applying for an ESTA?
For both individual and group applications, a processing time of approx. 72 hours must be planned. Experience has shown that the stress factor is high before the start of the holiday, which is why it is advisable to apply early.
How much does an ESTA group application cost?
The fees per person are $14, which is currently just under 13 euros (current exchange rate).
If the ESTA application is approved, nothing stands in the way of your vacation in the land of unlimited opportunities.
No matter where you go on holiday on the largest Canary Island Tenerife , excursions to the capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the port city of Puerto de la Cruz should definitely be on the excursion program. Santa Cruz can be easily reached from most major resorts in the north.
A stroll through the narrow streets of the old town is an absolute must. Sitting at the outdoor tables of the inviting bars, cafés and restaurants, watching the people strolling by and enjoying the sun – that’s pure holiday feeling! In the center of the oldest part of Santa Cruz is the church of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción with its tower visible from afar, and everywhere you can find picturesque buildings and remains from the colonial era.
If you like to go shopping, the best thing to do is to walk through the long pedestrian passage Calle Bethencourt Alfonso, which is also very attractive because of its large, shady trees. The typical Spanish market hall of Santa Cruz is popular with locals and tourists alike, because here you can not only buy fresh food, but also soak up the atmosphere with all your senses. A popular photo motif of the city is the auditorium at the harbor, which is reminiscent of the Sydney Opera House in its architecture. If you want, you can take a guided tour of the interiors. For plant lovers or holidaymakers who simply want to rest for a few minutes in a beautiful, green setting, we recommend the García Sañabria Park or the Botanical Garden.
The port city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is probably one of the most beautiful places that the Canary Islands have to offer. With the historic city center, an impressive nightlife and a variety of cultural and gastronomic highlights, the city is a nice change from the rather quiet beaches of the island. Holidaymakers can not only look forward to a lot of sightseeing, great restaurants and a very special attitude to life, but of course also have the opportunity to travel to various other parts of the island and discover Tenerife.
One of the most beautiful cities in Spain on a beautiful island
View of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Image: Balate Dorin / shutterstock
Along with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria , Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital of the Canary Islands region and has earned this title not only through the many destinations for tourists. After all, the city was founded in 1494 and was considered one of the first colonies that the Spaniards discovered during their mission to conquer the world. Since then, the Canary Islands have become an important intersection between the new and the old world, and the cultural influences that have flowed into the island from both sides have been correspondingly great, which can still be seen today.
The huge port, for example, is still a relic of the past and a focal point of life in the city. Above all, however, there are many historical buildings that have survived the centuries and give a small insight into the prosperity and importance of the Spanish colonial empire and what is left of it. This history is framed by a large number of green spaces that have been created in recent decades, making the city a bit of a small oasis. The contrast is a sight of its own, especially with the volcanic mountains in the background.
The main attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
In general, you should have seen the carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It is considered an absolute highlight and one of the most beautiful of its kind in Spain – but of course it is also an attraction for tourists, who flock to the city at this time to experience it. Apart from that, the port city has no shortage of sights for the rest of the year, for which you should definitely plan more than one day to experience them completely.
Of course, you should have seen the old town if you decide to take a trip to Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This is where the first settlers of the island made their home and from here the city expanded in the decades that followed. With its squares, avenues and small alleys, the old town offers a lot of variety. In addition to the Plaza de España, which offers some of the best cafeterias in the city, you should also have been to the Plaza de la Iglesia. In particular, the monumental church of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción, which stands on the edge of the square, is considered one of the landmarks of the city and the entire island.
If you want to let the mixture of cultures work its magic on you, you should pay a visit to the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África. The market hall is not only an important supplier for the many great restaurants in the city, but of course also offers private visitors the opportunity to buy exotic goods and fresh products. There are also many small snack bars and restaurants that shop directly at the market and can therefore score points with fresh food.
Recreation and excursions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
It wouldn’t be one of the most important cities in Tenerife if you didn’t find a lot of relaxation here easily and quickly. The palm gardens of the city itself invite you to linger and offer the opportunity to slow down a bit and thus let the city have a stronger effect on you. Above all, however, it is the many beaches in the area that attract visitors and promise a day of swimming. Playa de Las Teresitas is probably the most popular beach and can be easily reached by public transport or taxi. A trip with your own car is not worthwhile, because the situation with the parking spaces only offers pure chaos.
If you don’t want to go to the other sights of the island, you should pay special attention to the city’s nightlife. Santa Cruz turns into a terrific mix of bars and restaurants at night and, typical for the Spaniards, it is only after sunset that life begins for the locals. In the tapas bars and clubs you get to know a whole new side of Tenerife and can prepare for great new memories from your holiday.
The most popular holiday resort in the north of Tenerife: Puerto de la Cruz
The most important sights of the tourist centre can be easily conquered on foot, as most of the attractions are located on or at least near the seafront. One of the highlights is of course the complex of seawater swimming pools “Lago Martiánez”, designed by the Canarian artist César Manrique. Since high waves and strong surf often occur on the coast of the northern part of the island, the fantastic complex between the Atlantic Ocean and the beach promenade was built in the 1970s.
Since then, it has been possible to swim safely in its differently designed pools in an extraordinary ambience. World-famous and visitor magnet number 1 on Tenerife is the Loro Park. Over the decades, the park, which originally specialised only in parrots, has developed into one of the most beautiful zoos and amusement parks in Europe, which is also famous for its dolphin and orca shows and has already won several awards. A day at Loro Park is an essential part of a successful stay on the island, especially for families.
But tourists interested in culture will not miss out in Puerto de la Cruz either, because everywhere there are beautifully restored historic buildings to see, which date back to past centuries and remind us of the history of this former fishing village. A great example is the church of Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia, which dates back to the 17th century. Despite the rather inconspicuous façade made of dark lava rock, its interior hides a unique splendour. For example, part of the main altar is made of pure gold and the side altars are hardly less impressive. Puerto de la Cruz is truly a place that has something for everyone and exudes a wonderful holiday atmosphere.
Information about Puerto de la Cruz
Puerto de la Cruz is a town in the valley of La Orotava, in the north of the island of Tenerife. The name of the city comes from English and translates as “port of the cross”. Due to the volcanic relief of the island, the city center is located at an altitude of about 249 meters. Puerto de la Cruz is one of the best holiday resorts in the Canary Islands. The old town is very nice. Much of the area around the old fishing port consists of narrow, cobbled streets with colonial architecture. Today, Puerto de la Cruz has a wide range of beautiful hotels to suit all tastes and budgets. In addition to the old-world charm, the town also offers some of the most interesting attractions for visitors to the island.
Puerto de la Cruz in the past and today
Puerto de la Cruz was founded in 1502 as a small fishing village with a port that served the nearby large town of La Orotava. Gradually, the port gained importance until 1706, when the island’s volcano erupted and destroyed the main port of the north, Garachico, making Puerto de la Cruz the most important and busiest port on the island. Gradually, the sugar trade was replaced by wine production and exports. The exports initiated by the European colonizers after the conquest in the 15th century led to large flows of trade and passengers to the island for decades, and so the first foreign visitors to the island were attracted by the unique climate and air quality of the Taoro Valley, where they were treated for various respiratory diseases.
In the middle of the 17th century, the inhabitants of the settlement asked King Felipe IV for royal permission to secede from La Orotava and found their own city. Thus, Puerto de la Cruz was declared a city on May 3, 1651 and was able to elect its own rulers.
At the beginning of the 19th century, a large part of the European elite was drawn to the islands. Some of the most famous visitors were the writer William Wilde and the German explorer, geographer and botanist Alexander von Humboldt, who came to Tenerife to study the extraordinary flora.
Mass tourism began to play a crucial role in the local economy at the end of the 19th century. At that time, the first Taoro Hotel was built, and many of the old family houses from the colonial era were converted into hotels. One of the first tourist booms took place in the 1950s, when the city became a major tourist destination, not only on the island of Tenerife, but throughout the archipelago.
Best things to do in Puerto de la Cruz
If you are staying in Puerto de la Cruz, be sure to visit the artificial beach Lago Martianez. The road passes Punta del Viento (Windy Point), which is located above the Rustico restaurant, with rooms in the rock directly on the sea. From here you have a breathtaking view of the beach of Lago Martianez. This is probably one of the most photographed landscapes of Puerto de la Cruz. The coast of Puerto de la Cruz is very rocky and cannot be used as a beach by tourists. The famous architect of Lanzarote, César Manrique, designed Lago Martianez in such a way that it harmonizes with the natural features of the area.
The beach includes several islands in an artificial lake, gardens, restaurants, bars, terraces and all this fits into the natural profile of the sea coast and forms a great place for a beach or simply to relax. The palm trees and the volcanic rocks contribute to the exoticism of Lake Martianez. Unfortunately, you can’t freely enter the beach to walk there. Admission is subject to a fee. If you don’t want to pay that, you can explore almost everything outside of Lago Martianez. There is no barrier wall. The beach is one level lower than the promenade, and the difference in height between the two acts like a barrier.
On land, in addition to the beach, there are luxury hotels with spectacular views of Lake Martianez and the sea. The restaurants of the hotels and the restaurants in front of the hotels offer a varied menu, including seafood and the obligatory sangría. It’s not just about wine. In addition to red wine, Sangría also contains rum, at least two types of liqueur, the juice of fruit compote and its fruits, and fresh orange pieces. Cold sangria on balmy Tenerife nights is simply a divine drink – it cools the body and invigorates the senses.
In the streets of Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife
If you stroll along San Telmo Street, which is located by the sea, you will notice that the alley smells of freshly baked waffles. At the other end, there are restaurants that are hard to walk past without stopping to see what they offer. You can eat the famous cold tomato soup called gazpacho andaluz.
The city center or the Plaza del charco (Puddle Square) traditionally divides the central part of the city into two parts. The eastern one (towards Lago Martianez) is more luxurious and has more shopping opportunities. The western part is quieter, more serene and has a more pronounced romantic character. There are many restaurants that are open for dinner, and all are small, with a few tables and a family atmosphere. They offer incredibly tasty dishes, and since there are few customers, the chef only cares about you. The result is unique.
Incomparable flair in San Cristobal de La Laguna
La Laguna, as the place is usually called, is the former capital of Tenerife and is located in the northeast of the island. It impresses with a historic old town from the 16th century, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Tourists interested in history and architecture in particular will get their money’s worth here, as a large number of old churches and city villas characterize the picture. During a walk through La Laguna, which is located at an altitude of about 600 m, the oldest church on the island, the Nuestra Señora de la Concepción, should definitely be on the program. The Museum of History and Anthropology, which is largely dedicated to the indigenous people, the Guanches, is also recommended not only for bad weather days.
San Christobal de La Laguna – the cool beauty among Tenerife’s cities
Nestled in the high valley of Aguere lies San Christobal de La Laguna. No other city in the Canary archipelago can boast as many churches, chapels, monasteries and hermitages as San Christobal de La Laguna. What are you waiting for? Tangible, tangible history invites you to take a walk into the past.
Founded in 1496 near a small lake that has now disappeared, San Christobal de La Laguna was not only the capital of Tenerife, but of the entire archipelago. As a residential and administrative city, La Laguna attracted intellectual and spiritual life. The military had its headquarters here, as did the bishop and various monastic orders, which enriched the cityscape with handsome churches and monasteries.
Today, the city with over 150,000 inhabitants is the seat of the most important university in the Canary Islands, among other things.
On the shortest route to La Laguna: A tram connects the new island metropolis of Santa Cruz with the old capital San Christobal de La Laguna. In 1833, Santa Cruz replaced La Laguna as the island’s capital. To this day, San Christobal de La Laguna presents itself like an open history book. More than 40 historic buildings in the old town are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As soon as the Guanches were subdued, the Spanish conquistadors began to build a colonial city, which was to be groundbreaking for the founding of cities in the New World.
The UNESCO-ennobled colonial splendor is best discovered in a morning – ideally on a Thursday or Saturday, when all the museums and monasteries are open. Tip for a first impression: From the tower of the Concépsion Church you have a great view over the World Heritage City.
Let’s move on! San Christobal de La Laguna inspires with colorful student hustle and bustle and a charming old town. Churches, monasteries, museums, restaurants and wine bars – La Laguna surprises with an extraordinary diversity. Most of the central streets are traffic-calmed, the facades painted pastel and the romantic courtyards restored. The Plaza de Cristo with the adjoining Parque de la Constitucion in the east of the city is an atmospheric prelude to a city tour.
Others start their tour at the Plaza del Adelantado. The crowns of the palm trees, laurel and dragon trees form such a dense roof over the square that hardly a ray of light penetrates the ground. The square, named after the “adelantado”, the “leader”, is flanked on all sides by monasteries and stately residences.
Stroll zone with flair
A stroll through Calle Heradores, recently converted into a pedestrian mile, introduces you to the carefully restored heritage of the old capital. Many pretty details can be discovered: tiny wrought-iron standing balconies, massive brass door knockers or the coat of arms of a family clan above the lintel. In some places, a fountain splashes in green courtyards, such as in the almost 400-year-old Casa Alvarado Bracamonte, from which the captains general once steered the fate of the island with an iron hand.
One of the oldest buildings is the house of the bailiff near the central Plaza del Adelantado. On the square with an old dragon tree, the classicist town hall and the St. Catherine’s monastery, adorned with a Moorish-looking balcony, are among the most striking buildings.
A visit to the Casa de Lercaro, which is furnished with magnificent woodwork, rounds off the journey through time, fittingly housed the Museum of the Island’s History.
Despite history on every corner, La Laguna is a young city. This is mainly due to the university, which was founded in 1792 and today has around 24,000 students.
Short break
The tapas bars at the Plaza de la Conepción are very popular, where Café Palmelita also invites you to coffee and cake. The square in front of the church with its pretty street cafés is an ideal place to let the historical flair work its magic on you in a deeply relaxed way.
Hiking paradise and beach fun – the surroundings are wonderful
The way can hardly be long enough for lovers: Not only couples enjoy a walk along the palm-lined Avenida Paseo de las Palmas.
But La Laguna is also a hiker’s paradise: From the city, a road winds up to the Bosque de la Mercedes in the Anaga Mountains. However, the peninsula in the far northeast only shows itself in the best light to early risers. Around noon at the latest, milky wafts of mist usually envelop the mountains in a dense cotton pack. On a clear day, the Pico del Inglés viewpoint, which is almost 1,000 metres above sea level, offers a great view of the Anaga Mountains.
A hike to the cave dwellings in Chinamada, lined with geraniums, which unfold a beguiling colourfulness under a bright blue sky, is also popular. Meanwhile, Playa de las Teresitas near San Andrés satisfies the longing for sun and sea.
From fishing village to tourist hotspot – Los Gigantes
Los Gigantes, Image: Marisa Estivill / shutterstock
Nature lovers and active holidaymakers in particular will be delighted by a stay in Acantilados de Los Gigantes (Rock Face of the Giants) in the west of Tenerife. The district of the municipality of Santiago del Teide has become a popular destination due to its fantastic coastal landscape. The vertical rock walls extend over a length of more than nine kilometres, reaching a height of up to 500 m and are therefore considered the second highest in Europe. Various viewpoints each offer fantastic views, but on one of the boat tours on offer you can experience the cliffs from an even more impressive perspective. Trips to observe dolphins and pilot whales also start here. The underwater world is a paradise for divers and snorkelers and bathing tourists love the nearby Playa de los Guios, which scores with its black volcanic sand. Los Gigantes offers more than 300 days of sunshine a year and a decidedly mild climate – a perfect starting point for hikes in the Teide National Park and through the Teno Mountains.
Costa Adeje – ideal for a comfortable beach holiday
Costa Adeje, Image: Nanisimova / shutterstock
Costa Adeje is located in the southwest of Tenerife and is ideal for tourists who want to spend a classic beach holiday and value a first-class infrastructure. On the well-kept beach promenade you will find fine restaurants as well as tasteful shops and the surrounding area offers some of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
The Costa Adeje is a comparatively little-discovered section of the popular island of the Canary Islands. The city of the same name for the region is almost a bit sleepy compared to the big tourist strongholds, which offers a charm of its own for travelers who get lost in this direction. Costa Adeje has just as many sights to offer, especially with regard to nature, as many other parts of the island. In addition to its own sights, the way to the rest of the island is of course still free, which can be easily reached from here, especially with your own car.
Luxury and special enclaves – the retreat in Tenerife
Over the years, Costa Adeje has gained a reputation for being particularly exclusive and offering a special luxury in both shops and hotels. Here, the focus is on particularly high-quality but also expensive accommodation, and in the city’s shops, high-quality brands are not uncommon for holidaymakers. It is also important to know that the name does not only refer to the small town, but to the entire section of the coast in this area of the island. This leads to confusion from time to time.
The distinction between town and coast is important because the region was created only a few decades ago and does not have a historical heritage, as is the case with Santa Cruz de Tenerife, for example. Instead, you have to deal with an interesting tourist infrastructure that is a bit more designed for rest and relaxation than for sightseeing and adventure. Especially those who are looking for a few quiet days and weeks will get their money’s worth in Costa Adeje – which is also due to the many good accommodations.
If you are looking for historical sites in Tenerife, you will find them especially in the city of Adeje, the namesake of the region. Unlike the tourist resorts, the focus here is mainly on the preservation of the various historical buildings and offers hikers, cyclists and accompanied tours an interesting insight into the history of the island.
The main attractions when visiting Costa Adeje
A trip to historic Adeje should definitely be done when visiting the region. Whether it’s historical places like the church of Santa Úrsula or the various historic housing complexes, here you can get a good view of how the first settlers lived on the island and what architecture they used. Most hotels in the holiday region offer corresponding tours, but you will also get to the village quite quickly and easily by bike or rental car.
Of course, you have the opportunity to see the many other sights of the island. However, since Costa Adeje is a fairly new area, there are no classic historical sights here. Instead, the focus has been on a comprehensive range of leisure and relaxation activities and offers a wide variety of options in this area. Therefore, a trip to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which can be reached in a few hours, can satisfy the hunger for historical sights. In general, a trip to the city is recommended from any point in Tenerife, because the city has a very special magic.
Tranquillity, recreation, food and nightlife in Costa Adeje
Those who decide to spend their holidays on the Costa Adeje want above all to enjoy life and the island itself. So it’s no wonder that the region has adapted to these holidaymakers in particular. Restaurants, cafes and bars can be found everywhere and there are also snack bars and the right places for snacks on the many beaches. Water sports play a role and the beaches offer not only sun and sand, but also a wide variety of activities for the long day. The hotels, for example, have interesting offers in the field of massages and treatments at the spas and are therefore interesting alternatives for a long day at the sea.
In the evening, the trip to Costa Adeje is all the more worthwhile. The nightlife here has developed in a very short time and offers not only clubs and bars, but also theatres and events that are interesting and can give a special touch to the holiday
Hardly anyone knows the small, tranquil island of Ummanz, but it is a real insider tip among nature lovers. Ummanz is located between the island of Hiddensee and Rügen in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and is also affectionately called Rügen’s little sister. In 1901, Ummanz was connected to Rügen by a 250-metre-long bridge and can still be accessed by car or bike today.
The breathtaking flat landscape of the 20 km² island is part of the Vorpommersche Boddenlandschaft National Park and attracts above all those seeking peace and quiet, hikers and families with children. Windsurfers and kitesurfers as well as canoeists and kayakers also appreciate the island’s optimal water sports conditions and enjoy the idyllic waters.
Although Ummanz is the fifth largest island in the Baltic Sea, it is the most sparsely populated island in Germany with just under 275 inhabitants. As early as 1319, the small island first appeared in the history books, because in the small village of Freesenort is the Hasenburg, whose roof looks like a sugar loaf.
The unique landscape of Ummanz is characterized by impressive avenues, dense forests and a fascinating lagoon landscape that invites you to relax, hike or cycle. But the magnificent variety of native animal species also amazes not only birdwatchers. At special observation points in spring and autumn, you can even watch the cranes resting at their rest. The numerous adventure farms are particularly popular with families with children. Here, young and old can make their first riding experiences, feed the numerous animals or practice handling a tractor.
Sights on the island of Ummanz
Birdwatching point in Tankow
White-tailed eagles, cranes and other fascinating birds can be admired at the observation point in Tankow. In spring and autumn, the cranes rest here and can be admired from the small wooden house. Between August and April, there is also an interesting crane exhibition at the Ummanzer Information.
The forest adventure trail for children
Children can discover the forest in a playful way on the two-kilometre-long forest adventure trail with its nine different adventure stations. Knowledge games, cone throwing or various courses await the little ones here, while the adults enjoy the silence of the forest on the relaxation loungers.
Rügen Miniature Park in Gingst
The leisure and miniature park not only shows the miniature replica of Rügen, but also true-to-scale models of world-famous buildings such as the Colosseum, the Sydney Opera House or Notre Dame Church. The horse racecourse, the wild water ride, the family roller coaster or the large holiday swing provide varied fun. For the little ones there is a petting zoo and a bouncy castle and the self-service restaurant provides refreshments afterwards. The park can be explored with the Emma park railway from April to November.
Haflingerhof in Heide
Probably the most varied holiday resort on the island is the Haflingerhof in the Heide district. Children and adults alike can take their first riding lessons here or admire the fascinating landscape on a horseback ride. Sports enthusiasts can book their first surfing lesson here, go on a canoe or kayak tour or explore the area by carriage.
Lighthouse of the island
Lighthouse on Ummanz, Image: LianeM / shutterstock
The lighthouse, built in 1997, serves more the purpose of a beautiful photo motif than shipping. The 7-metre-high tower is located directly at the bridge entrance to the island and once served mainly as a kiosk and national brand. Since it has no significance for shipping, the light to protect the waterfowl is also missing.
Campsite Suhrendorf
Water sports enthusiasts in particular are drawn to Suhrendorf, because this is where they find the best wind conditions. But many bathers also enjoy the shallow Bodden water and the idyllic sunbathing lawn, where they can switch off.
Western Pomerania Lagoon Landscape National Park in Waase
In the first small village of the island, there is an extensive exhibition about the history and development of the island.
Parish Church of St. Mary in Kirchdorf
In the small Protestant parish church, there are numerous rare late Gothic carvings such as the lay altar to marvel at.
Handwerkerstube in Gingst
A historical exhibition about the traditional craftsmanship of the past centuries can be admired in the Gingst craftsmen’s room. The museum also has a café and a shop where you can still buy real handicrafts.
Karls Erdbeerhof Adventure Village in Zirkow
The largest and most popular amusement park for families is located on Rügen in Zirkow. Here, adults and children alike can let off steam on over 35000 m² and then fortify themselves in the many restaurants and cafés.
The most beautiful beaches in the area
The beaches on Rügen are among the most beautiful Baltic Sea beaches and attract numerous bathers every year. In addition, many of the beaches are also monitored by the DLRG and are therefore particularly safe, especially for families with children.
The most popular beaches on Rügen include Binz, Suhrendorf, Glowe, Göhren, Thiessow, Lobbe, Juliusruth, Baabe and Sellin. If you like it quieter and are looking for lonely, secluded beaches, you are in good hands on the partly stony beaches of Goos, Nonnewitz, Wittow, Palmer Ort, Gelbes Ufer, Rosengarten, Wreechen and Südperd Thiessow.
Events in and around Ummanz
A number of events that take place annually on Rügen ensure a varied holiday. The most popular festivals in summer are the Störtebeker Festival, the Seebrückenfest in Göhren and the Viking Days with live music. The Rügen Harbour Days in Sassnitz always take place on the second weekend in July and are also the largest folk festival on the island.
Must-try food
True fish fans should not miss out on the good fish of the Baltic Sea . The classics here clearly include the fish sandwiches and smoked fish directly from the cutter at the Sassnitz harbour.
The two “Dakotas” belong to the classic Midwestern states and are closely linked to the recent history of the USA. The former “Dakota Territory” was divided into the present-day states of North and South Dakota. It was mainly the Native Americans who lived their lives here long after colonization, until they were finally expelled by the new inhabitants of the USA. Today, South Dakota is famous for its natural treasures and the typical way of life that can be experienced in the Midwest of the USA . As part of the so-called Bible Belt, you will mainly meet the conservative American way of life here.
To this day, South Dakota, even compared to the rest of the Midwest, is sparsely populated. With Pierre and Sioux Falls, there are two cities that we will take a closer look at later. Otherwise, the state is mainly marked by the big eight – national parks and sights that you should definitely have seen when visiting South Dakota. The country is still particularly influenced by the indigenous people. In South Dakota, the “Indians” and their tribes were represented in large numbers until the end and it was here that the last atrocities against them happened so that they bowed to the “white man”.
While the indigenous people largely withdrew from their ancestral areas, many reserves and autonomous areas of them can still be found today. You can also discover them on a tour of the country and marvel at the crafts and learn more about the history of them. While the landscape is mainly inviting for adventure, the state’s cities still have a large number of impressive historic buildings that date back to the founding of South Dakota.
The admiration of the big eight in the state of South Dakota
Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park, Image: Jess Kraft / shutterstock
The “Great 8” refers to eight unique landmarks that can be found in the state. Especially among travelers who explore the state in the course of a road trip, it is therefore a small adventure to take all eight of the landmarks with you. In general, it is recommended that you equip yourself with your own car when traveling through the state. The distances in the seemingly endless prairies don’t just seem long – it can take hours to arrive at a new destination or even just find a village, a gas station or a diner for a break. So it takes a bit of preparation to explore and conquer this special state in its entirety.
Probably the most important and well-known sight, which is even seen throughout the world as a landmark of the USA, is Mount Rushmore. In 1941, the image of the four most important presidents of the USA was finally completed and today shows the heads of Washington, Lincoln, Roosevelt and Jefferson, who were carved into a mountain about 1,700 meters high. It took 14 years to work on this work of art, and to this day, the surrounding national park is considered one of the most famous sights in the entire country, attracting millions of visitors.
In addition to Mount Rushmore, the Badlands National Park is particularly worth mentioning. Nature has left behind rugged rock formations here in an impressive way. From the highest peaks, you can look into the country for miles and enjoy a view that you won’t have anywhere else in the country – not even in the Grand Canyon.
If you want to combine the sight of nature with a little activity, you should go to the Custer National Park. The mixture of small canals, swamps, wide landscapes and small hills offers the opportunity for canoe trips or a bike ride along the paved paths. There are also many small restaurants in the immediate vicinity, which are a great way to experience South Dakota from this side and get in touch with the people who live here today.
Cities, culture and other sights in South Dakota
Deadwood, Image: Kenneth Sponsler / shutterstock
If you want to experience a little of the history of South Dakota, you should definitely plan a visit to Deadwood. The historic gold mining town has fully focused on recalling the time around 1865. In addition to a classic saloon, there are also performances about the gunslingers and other interesting exhibitions about the lives of the approximately 6,000 gold diggers who once lived in this town.
But Sioux Falls is especially worth a visit. Named after the eponymous tribe that was once dominant here, the city is the urban center of South Dakota and offers arguably the best opportunities for shopping, culture, and a visit to one of the city’s many steak and burger joints. The city’s historic core and museums tell the story of Native American history and provide insight into why the fate of the state was and still is so closely linked to Native American life. From here, most adventures to the rest of the state can be easily planned and the necessary cars can be rented.
The “Asparagus”, as botanists call it, was already well known to the ancient Greeks. There, however, asparagus was considered less of a delicacy in a rich menu and more of a medicinal plant and aphrodisiac. It was not until the Romans that they appreciated the taste of the stalk vegetable. Today, the asparagus fans are a large community. Around 9.4 million tons of the green, purple and white spears are now harvested worldwide every year, only about 120,000 tons come from Germany. In the meantime, many people no longer buy asparagus in the supermarket, but look for the freshest specimens directly from local farmers. It is cult to combine a holiday with culinary delicacy.
Some prefer asparagus with hollandaise sauce and jacket potatoes, others like to combine the taste with delicious pasta or in Italy it is even packed on pizza. Whether purple asparagus, white asparagus tips or green asparagus, it’s up to you. However, the green spears have the advantage for many amateur cooks that they do not have to be peeled separately.
Holiday trips to the asparagus regions are for culinary enjoyment and relaxation. But cutting asparagus is pure backbreaking work for the employees of an asparagus farm. Lying down, for hours on special harvesting machines, the asparagus is first exposed underground, then cut straight at a length of 25 to 30 centimeters and finally the extraction point is closed again with soil. Therefore, one should particularly appreciate the “white gold”.
Asparagus in Germany
In Germany, you can travel along the Lower Saxony Asparagus Road . The route leads around 750 kilometres from one picturesque village to the next and in each one you can enjoy asparagus. Around one in five asparagus in Germany is cut out of the ground here. But there is also a large asparagus area in Bavaria with the Holledau .
The Marchfeld, just outside Vienna, is Austria’s treasure chest for the “white gold”. Here, the slightly sandy soils and countless hours of sunshine work together to make the fresh, slightly nutty-tasting spears grow.
Asparagus in Holland
Green plants of white asparagus in summer, Image: barmalini / shutterstock
Tulips, cheese and windmills are clichéd to be associated with Holland. But asparagus has also found a home here. There is even an asparagus museum here.
If you would like to deviate from the classic asparagus preparations, you can also try asparagus chocolate or asparagus liqueur at our neighbors.
Asparagus in South Tyrol
In South Tyrol, asparagus connoisseurs have to hurry. Here, the season does not end on June 25, as in Germany, for example, but already at the end of May. On the other hand, this travel time for South Tyrol is popular in several respects: While everything in Germany is still grey and cold, here you can already enjoy the warm rays of the sun and admire the famous apple blossom in all its glory.
If you are looking for asparagus in South Tyrol, you can usually find it at all farmers’ markets, but the traditional place of cultivation is the Adige Valley. Here, asparagus is often served with Bolzano sauce, a variation of hollandaise sauce, a mixture of egg, vinegar and oil, lemon juice and herbs.
Result
The advantage of traveling to an asparagus growing region: You can combine healthy, good food with long hikes, a good drop of wine or the hunt for new asparagus recipes.
By the way: The term “white gold” dates back to a time when only the nobility could afford the luxury of eating asparagus. It was not until around 1900 that it was also possible for well-to-do citizens to bring asparagus to the table on special holidays. And even today, asparagus is one of the most expensive vegetables on our markets.
