All about travel

Rimini – Longing for Italy

Europe
Italy

PatrickJullien

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27. June 2020

Rimini – the oldest and quite attractive seaside resort on the Adriatic Sea awakened the longing for the Italian “Dolce Vita” a long time ago. With the kilometre-long sandy beach, guests experience a relaxing holiday by the sea.

Rimini has been transformed into a modern holiday destination over the past few years. The sins of 20th-century pollution have been eliminated. This new prudent way of thinking runs through the entire region. Positive effects on the environment, especially on the water quality of the sea, are clearly noticeable. Today, Rimini’s coast is one of the cleanest beaches in Italy and the quality of the sea water is strictly controlled.

New buildings? Here, too, Rimini is a pioneer in sustainability. It has concentrated on the existing buildings and adapted them to modern standards. Thanks to the restoration of the old buildings, the traditional construction method has been preserved.

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Rimini – a city with many faces

Over the Tiberius Bridge to Borgo San Giuliano

The Tiberius Bridge is a work of art made of Istrian white stone. With its 5 arches, it is one of Rimini’s sights. For more than 2,000 years, it has led people to Borgo San Giuliano. Murals on the houses commemorate the great director Federico Fellini. Film scenes from famous works are perfectly reproduced here. This is how the former slum became a hotspot.

Old Town of Rimini

With its many buildings from the 15. And In the 16th century, Rimini is often referred to as Little Rome . The old town was shaped by the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The “Tempio Malatestiano” stands out particularly impressively. The gigantic cathedral was built of white limestone and was completely redesigned during the Renaissance. It is still one of Rimini’s impressive sights today.

With many small cafés and restaurants, the old town is worth a visit at any time of the day. Museums provide interesting insights into Rimini’s long history. In the evening, friends and strangers meet to enjoy the evening together. With changing events, the old town is an attraction for conviviality.

Beach life

Rimini Beach — The extensive beach of Rimini, Image: barbajones / shutterstock

During the day, the beach appears completely in Italian flair. Playground equipment offers children safe entertainment. The sun and the sea invite you to relax. Own cozy beach plots ensure privacy. On some beaches, these plots are mainly for guests with dogs. They can make themselves comfortable within the plot without leash compulsion. On the promenade, the gastronomy awaits you with all kinds of culinary delicacies.

Sport and party on the beach and in the sea

From beach volleyball to jogging in the sand to beach gymnastics with professional trainers, everything is possible on the long sandy beach. Banana boats, windsurfing or water skiing on the sea are a challenge for the daring and offer a welcome change.

With a dive, the biodiversity of the Adriatic Sea becomes visible. A small speedboat takes the divers to various regions, where the sea creatures are already waiting for their visit.

Attractive events are offered again and again – partly during the day, partly in the evening.
Every evening, the beach turns into a roaring party zone. Disco tents such as the Turquoise Beach Club invite you to party every evening. With good music, a good atmosphere is pre-programmed.

The hinterland

The hinterland in the province of Emilia-Romagna captivates with an extraordinary diversity of nature.

Half of the region consists of hilly landscapes, mountains, forests and lakes. Here are castles that invite you to linger. Again and again, historical monuments appear along the hiking trails.

Culinary journey

Delicious wine is grown on the slopes. The wine-growing region is characterized by fresh maritime air. Nestled between the sea and the mountain range of the Apennines, very wholesome wine is produced. Here the winegrowers invite you to a wine tasting. They organize these gatherings with the typical Italian serenity. With stories from life and winegrowing, they give their guests something instructive, well mixed with entertainment.

The flat landscape that makes up the other half of the region is largely used as an agricultural area. Fruit tree plantations, floriculture and vegetable cultivation radiate a special tranquility and a walk on flat ground relaxes body and soul.

What to see in the surroundings of Rimini

San Marino

A special excursion is a visit to San Marino. It is the smallest independent state in the world. As early as 301 A.D. it was founded and is also considered the oldest known state.

The capital San Marino is located on Mount Titano. With its small alleys, it provides insights into the past. The protective walls were built up to the edge of the cliffs and offer an impressive view over the entire region. In the villages that belong to San Marino, visitors can admire magnificent castles.

Il Parco Tematico, Rimini

A successful change from beach life is a trip to Miniaturland. Here you can marvel at not only Italy, but also highlights of Europe. A variety of attractions makes the day an unforgettable experience. A canoe ride through the rapids, a kick with the Sling Shot or the course high in the trees, Areaavventura, which shows the world from a whole new perspective, are among the highlights of this park.

Skypark

If you want to spend a day in a different way, this climbing park is the right place for you. There are courses with different levels of difficulty. The attempt to copy Tarzan’s jumps on the lianas or to take a spin on a skateboard on steel cables is also exciting. This is a sporting event of superlatives.

The most important questions about Rimini

How to get from Rimini to San Marino

By car, the journey from Rimini to San Marino takes 30 minutes. Bus line 160 takes you from Rimini to San Marino in just under 40 minutes. Timetable Rimini > San Marino

What is the weather like in Rimini?

Cayman Islands – More than just a tax haven

PatrickJullien

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27. June 2020

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Cayman Islands – More than just a tax haven

Snow-white, seemingly endless sandy beaches, in the background you can hear the sound of the waves rolling out on the beach just a few meters in front of your feet. The sun shines down from the cloudless blue sky and it smells gently of sweet tropical fruits. Large coconuts hang from the palm trees next door. In the middle of the Caribbean Sea between Cuba and Mexico lie the Cayman Islands, which could hardly be more picturesque. If you are looking for paradise on earth, you will find it on the three-part archipelago.

So far, the Cayman Islands have been heard as a tax haven in the evening news , when large companies and personalities used the archipelago as a loophole to save taxes in their home countries. About 200,000 companies are registered on the archipelago.

In the meantime, however, more and more tourists are discovering the picturesquely beautiful Caribbean archipelago of the Greater Antilles for themselves, such as Christopher Columbus, who discovered the islands on his fourth voyage of discovery. The archipelago consists of the large main island of Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. The name of the islands goes back to the crocodiles living there, which were initially confused with the caimans. Although they are located in the middle of the British Overseas Territory, all three islands have their own small airport, which makes them easy to reach from the mainland.

Unforgettable holidays

First and foremost, Grand Cayman is known for its beautiful reefs. Since 1978, the species-rich underwater world around the island has been protected by several laws. With fins, diving goggles and snorkel, you dive into a colorful world below sea level on one of the guided snorkeling tours. A unique experience that can no longer be forgotten.

Cayman Islands Diving — Coral reef in the Cayman Islands, Image: Ethan Daniels / shutterstock

But there are also spots on land that should not be missed. The famous Seven Miles Beach is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The fantastically beautiful fine white coral sand stretches for about ten kilometers, which is bordered by palm trees inland, while on the other side the waves of the crystal clear sea gently roll out on the beach. Although the beach is famous worldwide and the most exclusive resorts on the island are located here, the beach is public and accessible to everyone. The beach has already served as a backdrop for numerous well-known Hollywood productions.

After a nice day at the beach, you should definitely visit the local Heritage Kitchen between Seven Miles Beach and George Town. Here, it is mainly the locals who eat regional delicacies such as freshly caught fish, but also Julia Roberts when she spends her holidays on the island.

If you are not only enthusiastic about beautiful beaches, but also about activities on the water, you should spend your holidays here before November to April. With a constant water temperature of 30 degrees and little moisture in the air, kayaking and chasing the perfect wave on a surfboard is particularly fun.

One of the absolute island specialties that every vacationer should have tried at least once is the rum cake. This is baked in George Town by many different suppliers and is now one of the most successful export items on the island. But it’s not just cake that can be tasted and purchased in the charming little capital. George Town offers numerous shopping opportunities, completely duty-free. Very special is the jewelry, which is offered here by the locals from natural materials, such as shells and corals, at moderate prices. While true Caribbean flair reigns in the alleys during the day, the lively nightlife pulsates here in the evening hours.

A very special place in George Town is the turtle farm. This not only provides visitors with exciting and rare insights into the life of turtles, it also does important work for the conservation of the animal species as a state research station. 45,000 eggs are laid in the station every year.

But there is also a lot to experience and discover culturally on the Cayman Islands. During a visit to the bell tower and the other historic buildings, you can learn a lot about the history of the archipelago. The oldest building on the island at Bodden Town is Pedro St. James Castle. The story is not only long, it is also very eventful, because it is not just a simple inhabited house. Over the years, this has been a courtroom, parliament and prison all in one. Today, the house can be visited from the outside as well as from the inside.

Cayman Brac and Little Cayman

While life pulsates on Grand Cayman, the two small islands of Little Cayman and Cayman Brac seem almost lonely, but no less beautiful. Little Cayman in particular is inhabited by just 120 people and has the largest nature reserve, which is inhabited by many different plants and animal species. Much of the smallest of the three islands is indecisive and covered by tropical rainforest. In fact, nature is so untouched that pelicans and cormorants live here.
About 140 kilometers away from the main island is the middle island of Cayman Brac. An entire cave system near Bodden Town once offered protection and refuge to the dreaded pirates. This system, which ensured the safety of pirates in the 18th century, can still be admired and explored today in the former capital.

Harz Mountains, heath and “sea” – a diverse holiday destination in Lower Saxony

PatrickJullien

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24. June 2020

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Harz Mountains, heath and “sea” – a diverse holiday destination in Lower Saxony

Lower Saxony, Germany’s second-largest state in terms of area, impresses with its diversity. Between the peaks of the Harz Mountains and the coasts of East Frisia, both those who are active in sports and those interested in culture will find a suitable environment. The charming landscape between the Elbe, Ems and Leine offers all leisure opportunities. In addition, there are numerous other sights: From the picturesque half-timbered town to the modern “Autostadt”, each of them is worth a visit.

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“At the top” in Lower Saxony: East Frisia and its islands

Borkum Beach, Lower Saxony — Relaxing on the beach of Borkum, Image: WalterWeiss / shutterstock

Wide white beaches and always a fresh breeze characterize the seven islands of East Frisia. Borkum, Baltrum, Juist, Norderney, Wangerooge, Spiekeroog and Langeoog lie lined up like pearls off the coast of the mainland. Not only allergy sufferers appreciate the clear, pollen-free air and the wind that blows around their noses. Guided hikes are the best way to explore the unique, strictly protected flora and fauna of the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site. Families in particular experience special holiday moments here. The “Land behind the dike” captivates visitors with its maritime flair. Picturesque fishing villages and port towns such as Emden or Cuxhaven convey a touch of seafaring romance.

The region has a lot in store for connoisseurs. Fans of fresh fish will get their money’s worth. If you spend your holidays here, you should not miss out on participating in the famous “tea ceremony”. This epitome of East Frisian cosiness and hospitality has been on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural assets since 2016. The northernmost region of Lower Saxony is not only an attractive holiday destination in summer.

Dark moors and idyll by the river – the Emsland

Papenburg, Lower Saxony — Papenburg, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography

Romantic canals with wooden bascule bridges and numerous replicas of ships – Papenburg presents itself to its guests almost Dutch. In the Meyer Werft shipyard located here, luxurious cruise ships are built that later turn holiday wishes into reality on all the world’s oceans. The adjoining visitor centre provides interesting insights into the construction and construction of future “dream ships”. In addition to this technical highlight, the Emsland stands for intact nature and green expanses. Cyclists choose the right one for them from routes of all levels of difficulty. Quiet waterways and canals invite canoeists. Mysterious moors want to be discovered as well as megalithic graves from the early days of man.

In the cuisine of the Emsland, North German, Westphalian and some Dutch influences are mixed. A typical speciality is “Beschüte”, a kind of rusk in several variations.

Nature worthy of protection and a “blooming” cultural landscape: the Lüneburg Heath

Lüneburg Heath, Lower Saxony — The Lüneburg Heath, Image: Thorsten Link / shutterstock

The Lüneburg Heath is one of the oldest of the more than one hundred nature parks in Germany. On an area of over 107,000 hectares, it covers the largest contiguous heath area in Central Europe. Heidschnucken, the native sheep breed, help as animal “landscape gardeners” in the care and preservation of the area. From the beginning of August until September, the small purple flowers of the heather dominate the picture and make a stay an unforgettable experience. Locals and their guests enjoy this natural spectacle by bike, on foot or during one of the popular carriage rides.

The region is also worth a visit outside the heather blossom. Amusement parks such as the well-known Heide Park Soltau or the colourful Weltvogelpark Walsrode await young and old visitors. The historic cities of Lüneburg or Celle invite you to take an enjoyable stroll with their picturesque alleys, shops and cafés. Heidschnuckenbraten or buckwheat dishes and other culinary specialties are not to be missed. As a souvenir, for example, the delicious heather honey at the breakfast table at home reminds you of the relaxing days.

Of dancing witches and the “roof of northern Germany” – the magical Harz Mountains

Brocken, Harz — The Brocken, Image: K I Photography / shutterstock

With its mountainous landscape, the Harz National Park is a paradise for hikers . Deep forests, clear streams and rugged rocks are home to rare animal and plant species. The Brocken, the highest mountain in northern Germany at 1,141 metres, is surrounded by countless myths and legends. The famous “Dance of the Witches” on Walpurgis Night is just one of them. Due to its exposed location, its summit is rough and windy at any time of the year. This climatic peculiarity allows plants to grow there that are otherwise only found in Scandinavia. The Brocken can be hiked or “experienced” by mountain bike.

However, many visitors appreciate the popular and comfortable Brocken cable car for the ascent. The Bad Harzburg treetop walk opens up a whole new forest perspective. Under no circumstances should a visit to the thousand-year-old town of Goslar be missed during a holiday in the Harz Mountains. Rich history and culture make the imperial city a sight for all ages. The old core with its more than 1,500 half-timbered houses has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Those interested in history and technology like to visit the Rammelsberg ore mine here. There you will get a deep insight into the mining history of the region. Enjoyment is not neglected in the Harz Mountains. The palette ranges from the “Harzer Roller”, a sour milk cheese, to hearty sausage specialities and the famous “Schierker Feuerstein”, a spicy herbal liqueur made according to a secret recipe.

Two economic centres: Wolfsburg and Hanover

New Town Hall, Hanover — The “New Town Hall”, Image: Mapics / shutterstock

The capital of Lower Saxony, Hanover , gained international fame above all as a trade fair city and today has the largest exhibition grounds in the world. Around 60 events of national importance take place here every year, including the Hannover Messe. In recent years, the city on the Leine has gained a tourist profile. Its parks, cultural events and museums make it an up-and-coming destination. Extensive green and open spaces create a relaxed atmosphere.

A worthwhile destination is the Steinhuder Meer, the largest lake in Lower Saxony. This body of water is located about 30 kilometers northwest of the city and offers a lot of recreation for water sports enthusiasts and cyclists.

Since 2000, Lower Saxony has had a special kind of amusement park in the form of the “Autostadt” Wolfsburg. Between the city centre and the Volkswagen plant, there is a 28-hectare site on the Mittelland Canal, which also functions as a showroom, collection centre for new cars and event arena. There is a luxury hotel, over a dozen restaurants and numerous events throughout the year. A tour of this area is not only an experience for buyers of new cars.

Lower Saxony – travel destination at any time of the year

Lower Saxony as a travel destination thrives on its contrasts and diversity. Relaxing beach holidays in East Frisia, cycling in the Lüneburg Heath and hiking tours in the Harz Mountains leave no room for boredom. Various amusement parks and museums want to be discovered, especially on rainy days. The cities worth seeing contribute a considerable part to the attractiveness of the region. From maritime Wilhelmshaven to the “fairytale-like” Pied Piper town of Hamelin to the venerable university town of Göttingen, each has its own magic. As varied as the landscape and places, the culture and cuisine in this state between the far north and the center of Germany are

The Bulgarian Black Sea coast – bathing fun for young and old

PatrickJullien

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24. June 2020

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The Bulgarian Black Sea coast – bathing fun for young and old

The Black Sea coast of Bulgaria is the tourist center of the country. Every year, millions of visitors from all parts of Europe flock here to experience the sun, the beaches and the Bulgarian hospitality. The Black Sea is great for swimming and is considered one of the cleanest seas in the world. In addition, the salt content of the water is comparatively low. This, in combination with the Mediterranean climate and a variety of fine sandy beaches, developed holiday centres and dreamy bays, makes the Bulgarian Black Sea coast a popular destination for young and old.

From Germany , the most common way to travel is by plane to one of the two airports on the Black Sea coast, Burgas or Varna. There are direct flights from most German commercial airports and the flight time is usually about two to two and a half hours. The official language is Bulgarian, but English and often even German are spoken very well almost everywhere.

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The highlights of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast

Golden Sands – the party capital of the Black Sea

Goldtrand, Black Sea Coast — Golden Sands on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, Image: Alina G / shutterstock

The party stronghold of Golden Sands is one of the most famous holiday resorts on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast and is often described as the “Ballermann of the East”. Golden Sands has an area of over 1800 hectares, making it the largest seaside resort on the northern Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The beach itself has a length of over 3 kilometers and reaches a width of over 100 meters in places. However, Golden Sands has gained its reputation not only because of its beautiful beach, but above all because of the rich offer of bars, clubs and discos that visitors will find here. The nightlife is intense and extends almost every night until the early hours of the morning. Every conceivable type of water sport as well as countless leisure activities are also offered here. Nevertheless, Golden Sands still has some quiet and partly undiscovered corners and bays. The water temperature here reaches up to 26 degrees in summer and rarely falls below 20 degrees all year round.

Konstantin and Elena (Sveti Konstantin) – healing rest by the sea

Only about 10 kilometers northeast of Varna is Konstantin and Elena, the oldest seaside resort in Bulgaria. The first facilities for visitors were built here at the beginning of the 20th century. It is no coincidence that this place in particular became a magnet for visitors so early on, because Konstantin and Elena welcomes its guests with a magical combination of sunny sandy beaches, deep blue sea waves, healing mineral springs and restorative mountain air. Not far from the hotel complexes, you can also visit the monastery that gave this place its name. In Konstantin and Elena there are numerous hotels, bars and restaurants as well as a variety of leisure activities such as boat trips and jeep safaris.

Nessebar – the favourite resort of Bulgarians

View of Nessebar, Black Sea coast — View of Nessebar, Image: Michael Dechev / shutterstock

The listed town of Nessebar is considered a favorite of locals on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, and foreign visitors are also falling more and more in love with this picturesque town. Nessebar is located off the coast and is only connected to the mainland by a narrow headland. The city welcomes its visitors with a variety of narrow and winding streets where there are countless shops, cafés, bars and restaurants to discover. The alleys are paved with old cobblestones and the old fishermen’s cottages made of limestone and wood give the place its very special charm. The beach of Nessebar has the finest sand and is therefore particularly popular with beach vacationers, it is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the entire Bulgarian Black Sea coast.

Albena – an attractive seaside resort for families

Albena, Bulgarian Black Sea Coast — Extensive beach in Albena, Image: Michael Dechev / shutterstock

The seaside resort of Albena is one of the younger seaside resorts on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. It was not until the 1960s that the first hotels moved into the area, but since then the place has become a favourite, especially for visitors looking for peace and relaxation as well as for families with children. Today, Albena is one of the largest holiday resorts on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The beach of Albena is about five kilometers long and slopes very gently into the sea in most places, so that children can also bathe, play and swim safely and comfortably here. Albena is located on the Baltova River, the banks of which are adorned with rich forests and provide a great place for shady walks. Of course, the tourist infrastructure is not neglected in Albena either, and there are countless shops, bars and restaurants serving both local and intentional cuisine.

Sunny Beach – the famous seaside resort

Another internationally known seaside resort on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast is Sunny Beach. Here, the name says it all and the place welcomes its visitors with a spacious bay surrounded by a fine and well-kept sandy beach. The beach has a length of almost 7 kilometers and offers a wonderful view of the listed city of Nessebar from many places. To the south of Sunny Beach are the famous sand dunes, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sunny Beach is one of the oldest Bulgarian seaside resorts, but in recent years it has undergone a great wave of modernizations and improvements, making it an attractive and friendly place to relax, swim and explore.

Sozopol – from fishing village to visitor magnet

Sozopol, Black Sea Coast Bulgaria — Sozopol, Image: Marynka Mandarinka / shutterstock

Similar to the listed city of Nessebar, the town of Sozopol is located off the coast on a rocky peninsula. The idyllic location together with the photogenic fishermen’s cottages have made Sozopol an increasingly popular excursion destination, attracting mainly artists, photographers and visitors in search of culture and authenticity. Despite the increasing number of visitors, Sozopol has managed to retain its original flair and thus gives its guests the chance to take a piece of the Bulgarian attitude to life with them. In Sozopol there are also two beaches that slope very gently into the sea and are ideal for swimming.

Varna – a big city on the coast

Varna is the center of the northern Bulgarian Black Sea coast and home to almost 500,000 people. At the same time, Varna is considered the most expensive city in Bulgaria. Originally a port and fishing city, Varna has now become a vibrant centre of art, culture and education. Visitors are particularly interested in the beautiful sea garden, the magnificent old town and the dolphinarium. The beach is also considered an insider tip – it is mainly the locals who come here, while tourists usually visit the beaches of the seaside resorts a little further away.

Beautiful North Sea – Blåvand and surroundings

PatrickJullien

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21. June 2020

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Beautiful North Sea – Blåvand and surroundings

Blavand is one of the most beautiful destinations of our northern neighbour, Denmark. The small town is located directly on the North Sea and offers wonderful opportunities for strolling, walking and swimming. On the long dune beaches you will find few people and you can enjoy the peace and seclusion of Danish culture and “hygge”. Hygge is a Danish way of life, a coziness of the locals and deceleration that you can only find in the northern country of us. This is ensured by the few inhabitants in large areas. Denmark is mostly rural and has only a few major cities. There are no traffic jams and little hustle and bustle.

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Blåvand and its lighthouse

In addition to the small promenade that runs right through the village, you will find Blåvandshuk Fyr far at the front of the beach, Denmark’s westernmost lighthouse. During the day you can climb it and have a wide view over the North Sea and the inland. In addition, there is a small restaurant and a souvenir shop. In the evening, tourists and locals gather here and watch the breathtaking sunset. Blavand forms the westernmost tip of Jutland, right next to the lighthouse. When the land sinks into an orange glow, then evening has dawned and a quiet and starry night follows. The nights are clearer here than in Germany. There are not as many lights in the villages as there are in our cities, and so the splendor of the sky is much more pleasant. The lighthouse rises 39 meters into the air.

Blavand and recreation

The main road to the Fyr is covered with small shops, restaurants and souvenir shops. Numerous Danish souvenirs can be purchased here. If you are looking for relaxation and the hygge described above, you should look for a place on the beach. Beyond the Fyr there is a more than 40-kilometre-long beach that stretches up to Ringköbing Fjord. Denmark has more than 7400 kilometers of coastline, the North Sea Cycle Route leads straight from Römö in the south via Blavand up to Skagen, over more than 500 kilometers. On the beaches around Blåvand there is always a gentle breeze, the North Sea wind. In the dunes, however, you are protected and can see the cold and salty North Sea water as a refreshment. Many hang-gliders are on the beach.

Excursions around Blåvand

Beaches Blavand — Extensive beaches invite you to swim, Image: Ronald Schroedter / shutterstock

If you spend your holiday in the North Sea resort of Blåvand, you have plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding area by car. No more than an hour away is the island of Fanø, which can only be reached by ferry. For a day trip, it is worthwhile to drive over there as a pedestrian and rent a bike in the capital. Since the coastal areas are all very flat, you can get over the island quickly. The main road, which runs along the interior of the island, is connected to the side by a beautiful cycle path. From Nordby, the capital with its small dreamy alleys, a typical Danish supermarket and a church, we now descend south through a nature reserve to Sönderho, past a typical windmill that can be visited.

In addition to Fanø, there are also destinations nearby, such as the old town of Ribe, with its queen Dagmar, and the industrial city of Esbjerg, which does not have many sights, except for the three men looking out over the North Sea, a huge monument on the beach where you can experience a unique sunset. But in the city center there are numerous opportunities for shopping and shopping. You can stroll along the promenade and see numerous Danish shops. Ribe, on the other hand, is a cultural city with its cathedral and medieval market square. Just outside is the ruins of Queen Dagmar’s castle.

Excursion destinations to Hvide Sande and Ringköbing Fjord

If you want to experience German Denmark, you should drive north from Blavand and visit Ringköbing. This fjord is an inland body of water and only a thin land bridge, on which places such as Hvide Sande, Henne Strande and Nörre Nebel lie, forms the border to the North Sea. It is mainly the Germans who rule here. In the fish shops at the harbour of Hvide Sande or a small coffee roastery, where you can even get the legendary liquorice coffee. In the small towns there is usually a shopping street with the typical Danish shops, but also many different bathing opportunities, endless beaches and small harbours. A trip to Söndervig, to the annual sand exhibition in the promenade, is definitely worthwhile. Here you will not only find beautiful sculptures, but also a maritime experience for the whole family.

https://youtu.be/oKFcHjaEfgw

Holidays with the family in Blåvand

The village of Blavand has numerous holiday homes that are rented out again and again every year. Outside the village there is a horse ranch. In addition to a stay there, you can also ride through the large forests of the region and get riding lessons. The horse farm is lovingly located on the edge of the city and the forest. If you follow the peninsula, you will eventually come to a dead end and a beautiful beach. Here, too, the rough wind of the North Sea blows. On the beach of Blavand there are still numerous bunkers from the Second World War, a highlight for young climbing artists of the families. The Woodrows are a kind of landmark of the city. These horses, made of metal, are connected to the bunkers and are considered the most beautiful sculptures in the region. So it is recommended to spend your holiday here in Blåvand. If you want to get a taste of culture, you can also go to the Bunker Museum, which is always open during the day and during the week and shows an exhibition.

Mountain Moments – Experience Mountain Moments

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PatrickJullien

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19. June 2020

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Mountain Moments – Experience Mountain Moments

A mountain book to dream about with the most beautiful photo spots and hikes in the Alps – From Neuschwanstein to Lake Bled in Slovenia. In the new Mountain Moments book by bestselling author, photographer and mountain lover Marius Schwager from Innsbruck, the reader is presented with 30 different routes in a visually appealing way.

Visual photo treats are combined with the most important information about the tour as well as a classification of the difficulty of the route in 5 levels.

But the book does much more. This gives you tips on photography and important information about hiking in the Alps.

We are pleased that the editor Marius Schwager was available for an interview shortly before the next trip to the Dolomites .

Dear Marius, when you hold your book in your hand for the first time, you immediately notice that great importance has been attached to aesthetics. The beauty of the images harmonizes with the clear layout, matching quotes and clear icons. Would you like to tell us a little bit about the development of the book? How do you approach such a project? Do you first determine the tours and then meet with the art directors or do you design in advance and then pick out the “suitable”?

Thank you very much for the compliment, the graphic designers/designers will also be happy. This was not my first book, but the first without an external publisher. The design or the freedom of design was also the main reason for his own project. The existing publishers often have fixed concepts and the design possibilities are correspondingly limited. A different paper, new concept, or unusual size are almost never feasible like this.

For your own book, of course, you need a basic idea of the processes and also the necessary capital to pre-finance the printing. Willingness to take risks, take on the uncertainty oneself and openness to problems that arise are probably the biggest obstacles.

Mountain Moments Book — The tours are aesthetically sophisticated and interestingly prepared, Image: Marius Schager / Mountain Moments

The whole thing dragged on for about 2 years. First, Mathias and I developed the idea and then played through various concepts and tested something, got opinions and, of course, researched some tours.

After that, I looked for a designer and a cartographer at the same time, who were also willing to take a bit of a risk – and luckily I found them in Leon, Lacy and Conny. I trusted the employees to a large extent, “just let them do it”, and tried to have each team critically questioned. This is some effort, but it is worth it, because you can rethink some points and perhaps find new solutions. Our hiking maps, for example, manage the balancing act between being cartographically correct and at the same time blending harmoniously into the concept. And we can also offer the tours for download, so that you can leave the book at home and still have all the information on your smartphone.

In the foreword you mention that not only the factor “beauty” played a role in the selection of spots and hikes for the book, but also the popularity of the corresponding place. To what extent do you think “Insta-tourism” has arrived in the Alps?

Insta Tourism has definitely arrived in the Alps. If you see a picture online, you have the place directly in front of your nose via GPS coordinates in 2 clicks or via an image search. All you have to do is follow the arrow of your navigation system and get to any place. Basically, this is not a problem, only if places are not made or prepared for masses of visitors. In the Alps, there is a lot about the difficulty of the places to get there. Some places, on the other hand, have been tourist magnets for over 100 years and have already found regulations that work locally. For example, Zermatt, which can only be reached by train, car bans on Lago di Braies and the Alpe di Siusi, or a certain limited number of bus connections and car parking spaces in general.

Many places that I know and that are beautiful might not withstand the rapid development that is possible today, or there would be major problems for the residents. These are intentionally not in the book. The tour at the Schrecksee, for example, was such a borderline case. On the one hand beautiful and already quite well-known, on the other hand it is a very fragile ecosystem. In this case, I decided to take the tour because it is quite far there, and the parking lot at the starting point logically restricts access with it.

In general, I chose some spots because of their popularity, but also took an exciting variant hike that not only covers the “Insta-Spot”, but also allows contact with nature. For example, at Neuschwanstein Castle. If you walk the round, you will be stuck in the tourist hustle and bustle, but most of the time of the long hike you won’t meet very many people.

In your workshops, you attach great importance to sustainability and consideration for animals and nature. You also go into detail about the topic in the book. (How) do you think the behaviour of tourists in the mountains has changed in recent years and what measures would have to be taken to protect the environment?

Most people in our society have an ever-faster life and want quick solutions. At the same time, a kind of longing for nature and simple life and deceleration emerges as a contrast to this and can be seen, for example, in the greater popularity of the topic of hiking and photography. Both are very slow activities that place great emphasis on experiencing nature.

The vast majority of people do not consciously destroy nature, but simply do not think much about what their behavior does.

I think a lot can be achieved with better education. Not every city dweller or every local knows that you shouldn’t jump into a mountain lake smeared with sunscreen, as you might quickly destroy an ecosystem. In my opinion, a lot of positive things would be achieved with more education – e.g. in the form of small signs or software solutions. And especially for mountain sports, better public transport and easier booking and planning would be essential. At the moment, you almost always have to travel by car, so I think there is a lot of room for improvement.

If I want to travel to the Alps for hiking as a young family with two small children. Which hike from your book would you recommend to us?

That depends. Beginners, adults as well as children, should stick to the easy tours. If the kids are fit and can make decisions independently with risk (e.g. risk of falling), they can also tackle the more difficult hikes right away.

Is there a dream place in the Alps that you haven’t been able to explore yet?

This summer I want to go to the Slovenian Alps, where I haven’t really been active yet. The same applies to the other end of the Alps between Briancon and Turin.

Is a holiday in more southern climes an option for you as an alpinist? Or to put it another way: Is a white beach in the Seychelles an attractive motif for you?

A little relaxation rarely hurts, I think. After usually 2-3 days of relaxing, however, I quickly get bored and want to discover or try something or do sports. Seychelles, yes, but then please with diving, snorkeling, surfing or beach runs. Photographically, however, I prefer to stay in the mountains or for a change to something reportage-related with people.

You live in Innsbruck. What does the perfect day in Tyrol’s capital look like for you?

The perfect day for me is a spring day. He starts very early with an Italian coffee and healthy breakfast. It then goes quickly to the first cable car in the morning and 8 o’clock. The first tracks are made in the fresh deep snow as the remaining clouds disappear and the first rays of sunshine appear. Then a small climb to another untouched descent.

At noon, the skis are exchanged for the mountain bike. The last meters of altitude are walked to a summit, the sunset is enjoyed and, of course, photographed. With the mountain bike you go quickly back down into the valley in the headlight of the headlamp and the day ends with a glass of wine reviewing the pictures of the day.

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To the editor

Marius Schwager is a social scientist and economist. When he is not leading photo workshops, he is usually on expeditions in the Alps and tries to capture atmospheric, natural images and the stories behind them. The adventures find their way into best-selling books, magazines and international customers from the outdoor industry. He prefers to share experiences with like-minded people and those willing to learn.

To Mountain Moments

Mountain Moments is a portal for photography and mountain experiences. On www.mountainmoments.de , mountain enthusiasts will find a lot of helpful information about mountain sports and mountain photography. In workshops, seminars and trips, nature lovers learn everything they need to know about photography and experience unique adventures in the mountains. The goal of Mountain Moments is to bring the beauty of the mountains and nature closer to alpine lovers all over the world. Mindful and sustainable behaviour is the means of choice to increase the enjoyment of nature and thus protect and preserve it at the same time. The new book “Mountain Moments – The Most Beautiful Photo Spots and Hikes in the Alps” is the latest medium of this project.

Information

Mountain Moments: The most beautiful photo spots and hikes in the Alps

Editor: Marius Schwager
1st edition 2020
ISBN: 978-3-948723-00-2
194 pages, 122 colour photos, 30 topographical hiking maps, 30 hikes, 95 photo spots, overview map, complete tour information, GPS coordinates (online)
Format 18*23 cm
Illustrated book quality

Price: 26,99 Euro (D)

Available at www.mountainmoments.de

Direct link: www.mountainmoments.de/alpen-die-schoensten-fotospots-wanderungen/

Carefree booking – You have these rights in the event of a short-term hindrance

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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18. June 2020

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Carefree booking – You have these rights in the event of a short-term hindrance

In Germany, the classic travel season falls during the summer holidays. Families sometimes plan a year in advance where the well-deserved vacation should go. They are already looking forward to their summer holidays in January. However, it happens that this has to be cancelled at short notice. Whether illness, death or accident – many events over which humans have no influence can throw a spanner in the works.

Good for those who have travel cancellation insurance, it is said in this case. However, not all travel enthusiasts have taken precautions. Nevertheless, they do not necessarily have to worry about high cancellation fees.

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Cancel the trip without travel cancellation insurance – and now?

Sun, summer, beach and sea: there are many reasons to go on holiday. Just as many can ensure that the planned trip has to be cancelled before departure. Those who have travel cancellation insurance can stay relaxed. The insurance covers the cancellation costs if:

Accidents or illness prevent the start of the trip,
the death of a close relative blows up the travel plan,
unexpected unemployment makes vacation impossible.

Of course, travelers without travel cancellation insurance are also allowed to cancel their vacation. However, the question arises as to what financial hurdles they will face. If you decide to cancel immediately after booking, you do not have to worry about any costs. For all holiday bookings – whether online or in a travel agency – the two-week right of withdrawal applies.

Furthermore, there is the possibility of hoping for the goodwill of the travel provider. Accordingly, it should not be cancelled immediately. If the travel enthusiasts describe their problem by phone or e-mail, the provider ideally offers one of the two options:

Travel resale: In this case, the trip can be sold to other holidaymakers. In this case, the flight and hotel are passed on to third parties at the booking price. Less often, the prevented travelers have to accept lower prices.

Rebooking: In some cases, the tour operators agree to a rebooking. Fees may apply for these.

If travel providers or guests do not agree to either solution, the only option is cancellation. How expensive it is for the travelers depends largely on the time of the trip cancellation. The type of trip can also affect cancellation fees. The lowest costs are usually incurred for package tours. If you plan your holiday individually, you must find out independently about the amount of cancellation costs for flights and accommodation .

With most low-cost carriers, tickets expire in the event of cancellation and cannot be reused. The situation is similar with more exclusive flight providers, where the cheapest flight class has been booked. The following applies to all trips: The later the cancellation is made, the higher the costs on average.

Beach and shell — If a trip has to be canceled, it is bad enough for the vacationers. They don’t need any additional costs, Image: S_Photo / shutterstock

Cancelling the trip without cancellation fees – when and how does it work?

Normally, travelers cannot avoid cancellation fees if they cancel a trip at short notice. Nevertheless, there are exceptional cases in which the cancellation takes place without incurring costs. The reason for the cancellation of the trip plays a role here. If you don’t feel like going on holiday, you can’t claim this as a good reason for cancellation.

For example, even if there is a short-term hindrance, there are no costs for cancelling the trip if force majeure prevents the holiday. These can include natural disasters. Likewise, the tour operator must accept the cancellation free of charge if he changes his terms and conditions at short notice. This can happen if the price of the holiday suddenly increases or if services included in advance are no longer included in the travel price.

It should be borne in mind that the cancellation policy is decided on a case-by-case basis. If there are disputes between the guest and the tour operator, a lawyer may have to be consulted. However, if “force majeure” thwarts the vacation plans, the legal situation is clear. A similar situation occurs if:

there is an imminent military conflict or war in the destination country,
the travel area is closed due to a natural disaster,
there is a threat of disease epidemics in the holiday country,
domestic political unrest or a civil war make the journey unsafe.

The threat of a terrorist attack is not officially considered “force majeure”. Even after a terrorist attack, it is impossible for many travel providers to cancel the holiday in the affected country free of charge. If there is a concrete terror warning, on the other hand, the tour operators are obliged to inform the holidaymakers about what is happening. German travellers can refer to another case: If the Foreign Office issues an official travel warning for a region or country, the trip there can be cancelled at no cost.

What should be considered when cancelling a trip at short notice?

Regardless of the reasons for cancelling or rebooking the holiday, travellers should contact their tour operator in advance to describe the situation. At best, individual regulations for the problem can be found in conversation. If no agreement is reached, the cancellation of the trip becomes a done deal. In this case, it is important to inform the travel provider again in writing of your own intention. This can be done by letter, fax or e-mail.

A receipt for the written travel cancellation should always be kept. Consequently, it is worthwhile to send letter mail as registered mail. In the event of a dispute, the receipt serves as proof of the announcement of intent to the tour operator. In an emergency, it can be legally asserted.

The best travel tips for Safaga

Africa
Egypt

PatrickJullien

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17. June 2020

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53 kilometers south of Hurghada is Safaga, an old seaport known for its clean air, black sand dunes and mineral springs. Safaga is considered Egypt’s most important phosphate export center and important seaport. Many visitors also come for medical reasons. Safaga is said to have extraordinary potential for curing psoriasis, rheumatism and arthritis, but also for back problems and improving blood circulation. Due to its positive effect on the skin, Safaga has also developed into a true beauty pilgrimage site.

The clean beaches and the always stiff sea breeze make Safaga an excellent place for diving holidays. Although Safaga is an excellent destination for diving and snorkeling, the city is even more famous for its ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. In 1993, Safaga even hosted the World Windsurfing Championships.

The city is also a perfect starting point for sightseeing tours. The desert west of the city is home to just as many historical treasures as the Red Sea, which borders Safaga to the east.

For day trips by speedboat to the wall of fire, the Forbidden Reef or the ferry wreck of Arish El Tor, it is best to book a local guide on site. In addition, there are excursions to the famous Tobia Islands, the Panorama Reef with the towering corals of Abu Qitan and the legendary Mons Claudianus, the ruins of a Roman settlement dating back to 68 AD, where granite buildings from the surrounding mountains were used exclusively for the purpose of the imperial Rome .

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Beaches and water sports in Safaga

The beaches in Safaga are immaculate and beautiful. Most hotels in Safaga have their own private beaches that are exclusively available to hotel guests. Hotels and resorts in Safaga offer a wide range of water sports and activities related to the sea, from snorkeling trips to pedal boats, canoeing and catamarans.

Windsurfing in Safaga

Safaga, Windsurfing — Safaga is a windsurfer’s paradise, Image: Kostin SS / shutterstock

Safaga hosted the Red Sea Windsurfing World Championships in 1993 and has an excellent reputation among windsurfing and kitesurfing. The winds in the Red Sea are caused by the temperature difference between land and water, and Safaga benefits from a generally flat coastline with no fringing reefs. This creates perfect conditions.

Safaga is therefore ideal for beginners in the field of windsurfing, but also advanced windsurfers get their money’s worth.

Ancient Egypt from Safaga

Karnak Temple, Luxor — The Karnak Temple in Luxor, Image: Zbigniew Guzowski / shutterstock

Safaga is a good starting point for inland sightseeing. Luxor is easy to reach. It is often referred to as the largest open-air museum in the world. Due to the numerous well-preserved ancient monuments in the city and its surroundings, it is the ideal destination for an exciting day trip. The city of Luxor was built on the ruins of the ancient city of Thebes and is located on the east side of the Nile. Karnak is located in the north and Thebes on the west bank. It is a “must” for any holiday in Egypt to visit the Luxor Temple built by Amenhotep III and the Karnak Temple. Luxor is also close to the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens.

Mons Claudianus is one of the best preserved sites of Roman civilization in Egypt. As a Roman penal colony and quarry, the stones worked by the prisoners were used as building material for the Roman Empire. Mons Claudianus’ gleaming black stones can still be seen today in Hadrian’s villa, in the portico of the Pantheon, in public baths, and in the columns and floor of the Temple of Venus in Rome.

Attractions in Safaga

Ferry wreck ‘El Arish El Tor’

The Norwegian ferry sank in 2002 and came to a standstill on its port side. The wreck starts at a depth of 15 meters and goes down to 38 meters. Its abundance of fish and the abundant growth of soft corals, especially on the propellers, as well as the remains of former seating areas on deck, make the wreck worthwhile for wreck divers and underwater photographers alike. Even the former utensils on board the ship, such as life jackets or fire hoses, can still be seen – none of which were needed when the ship slowly sank at anchor, because it was unmanned. This wreck is home to many yellow-tailed barracuda, Indian mackerel often hunt around them and swarm across the deck – an unforgettable natural spectacle.

Firewall

The reef offers abundant coral growth and many marine animals such as fusilier and goat fish, as well as the ubiquitous lionfish. The plateau is home to groups of smaller coral heads that are home to anemones and clownfish, as well as even the otherwise rare moray eels. Encounters with large stingrays such as feather-tailed or eagle rays are also common.

Forbidden Reef

It is a large reef accompanied by ergs. Next to the reef, the depth is 10 meters, and further out it is up to 30 meters, where the seabed is covered with bizarrely shaped coral blocks. This site is very rich in fish, especially schools of fusiliers, as well as large jacks and barracuda. Groups of dolphins also frequently visit this dive site. A dive can be done as a mooring line or as a drift dive and is suitable for all levels.

Mons Claudianus

This huge Roman site and important landmark is named after Mons Claudianus, who once supplied grey granite for the Roman Empire. One thousand stone crushers and Roman soldiers were stationed in this part of Hurghada for over two centuries. Even today, objects from Mons Claudianus can be seen in the Pantheon, Hadrian’s villa and the unfinished Temple of Venus. Other sights are the old fortress, apartments, workshops, stables, baths, granite columns and slabs.

Panorama Reef

Diving Safaga — Safaga’s underwater world is a diving paradise, Image: pekk / shutterstock

If you want to go diving in Panorama Reef, you should plan several dives, as you will not visit this place only once. This is due to the huge plateau and rich slopes that you should not miss. The diver’s paradise is located 60-90 minutes outside of Safaga.

The reef is the largest reef in Safaga and offers arguably the largest underwater variety of plants and animals. Due to the current from the north, the reef is particularly suitable for drift diving. The North Plateau is home to many purple corals, dolphins, and gray reefs, to name a few. However, the main attraction of the reef is, of course, the steep walls, which disappear into the depths at a depth of more than 20 meters. The coral life of the reef is characterized by soft corals. The abundance of different fish species in this reef is simply gigantic. For example, there are parrotfish, lionfish, and scorpion fish, to name a few.

Tobia Island

Tobia Island, a surfer’s paradise, is a small bank island in the middle of Safaga Bay. Tobia Island is considered the perfect place to spend a day at sea on one of the many day trip dive boats. It is also a wonderful place to snorkel and observe the excellent coral heads in the shallow water, making snorkeling easy, fun, and ideal for children. For those who like it more challenging, some of the best diving in the region can be done from Topia Island. Dive boats will take you to different locations where you can experience many different types of dives in a single trip, from sandy shallows to towering coral columns.

Diving in the Red Sea off Safaga

Diving around Safaga is varied and interesting. There are fewer dive centers than in Hurghada in the north, which means that the dive sites are less crowded and the corals are in better condition. With dives on the house reefs for beginners and some deeper drift dives offshore for advanced divers, there is something for divers of all levels. The coral reefs are characterized by pinnacles, slopes, grottos, and overhangs, and are all abundantly populated with marine life. There is also the wreck of the Salem Express, a hundred-meter-long ferry that sank in December 1991 and unfortunately killed about five hundred passengers on board who wanted to make a pilgrimage to Mecca. To venture a little further afield, a liveaboard excursion might be a better option for the avid diver, as otherwise most resorts offer day dives from boats or from the shore.

But whether you’re looking for a diving adventure or the perfect wave, whether you just want to relax on the beach or explore the historical monuments of ancient Egypt, you’re guaranteed to find something for everyone on a holiday in Safaga.

Holidays in Rheinhessen – Bridging the Rhine and Nahe

PatrickJullien

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15. June 2020

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Holidays in Rheinhessen – Bridging the Rhine and Nahe

Green mountains and a lovely river valley: Rheinhessen is a paradise for romantic poets, painters and singers – good for those who explore this part of the Palatinate Rhineland on foot or by bike. So you can confidently enjoy a glass of wine in between.

Rheinhessen stands for enjoyment and a natural experience. Wine is omnipresent here. Winegrowers open their inns, which often serve as hostels, and charming little towns invite you to linger. Middle Rhine romanticism and wide views – Goethe already felt at home here. If you want to explore this region, you should plan at least a week.

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Between wine and rocks – welcome to the “Land of a Thousand Hills”

Worms Cathedral, Rheinhessen — The Worms Cathedral, Image: Tobias Arhelger / shutterstock

First of all: We are not in Hesse, as the name might suggest! Since the Congress of Vienna (1815), Rhenish Hesse has belonged to the Palatinates of the Rhineland. Fields and forests, gentle bumps, meadows often overgrown with vines, many small villages built of sandstone – Rheinhessen is like a sea: many pearls are waiting to be discovered. Vineyard after vineyard. On the journey from Bingen via Alzey to Worms, the holidaymaker will find a gentle hilly landscape. Again and again it goes uphill and downhill.
Who wants to float over a vineyard landscape with the cable car? Visit a flower gift paradise, wine hiking, great festivals and special wine experiences – it’s time to discover the German Puglia !

Holidays in “Weinhessen” – a touch of the Mediterranean

In Rheinhessen, the large anemone forms a flower beauty. It loves the warmth. In this respect, there is much to be said for the region’s climate favour. Spring begins earlier here, autumn defies winter for a long time. Rheinhessen is rightly considered the Tuscany in the middle of Germany. Juicy figs, racy wines, sweet almonds and lemons thrive here. The climate is almost Mediterranean. White pointed cap-like buildings are reminiscent of Puglia in southern Italy. The white sugar loafs – also known as trulli – peek out of the vineyard landscape near Flörsheim-Dalsheim and are at the same time the trademark of southern Rheinhessen. A trullo hike on every third Sunday in June is recommended. Numerous visitors then flock to the vineyard cottages with the white hats to watch their cultivation.

Trulli Rheinhessen — Trullo in Westhofen, Image: Jana Loesch / shutterstock

From Bingen upstream, the valley of the Rhine widens. Between the bend of the Rhine and the border with Alsace stretches the huge Rhine construction region of Rheinhessen.
In the sunny climate of the Palatinate, the noble grape juice matures, bringing people together in cosy wine taverns. Cool vaulted cellars everywhere invite you to a hearty wine tasting. The “Rhine Franconian” turns out to be a hospitable, fun-loving breed of people. The region is characterized by a 2000-year-old cultural history. The wine also leads again and again in the footsteps of the Romans. There is hardly a place without vines. The Romans introduced it, and the Franks subsequently cultivated it.

Famous places in the sunny hill country

Rhine near Mainz — The Rhine in Mainz, Image: saiko3p / shutterstock

Discover special places and enjoy beautiful moments – Rheinhessen invites:
Let’s start with the big names in the wine world: Mainz, Oppenheim, Ingelheim and Nierstein. All major towns are well connected by public transport. Many explore the area by muscle power or by e-bike. Above all, however, it is the “Wandersleut” who are increasingly discovering Rheinhessen.
Nieder-Olm, Sprendlingen and Wörrstadt form the heart of the region. Alzey likes to act as the secret capital of Rheinhessen.

Just a stone’s throw and you reach the Jewish Worms or the legendary Nibelungen, which is soon joined by the Wonnegau. The cathedral city of Worms is not only the home of the Nibelungen, Luther also stood here in 1521 in front of the Reichstag and spoke the well-known sentence: “Here I stand. I can’t help it…”.

And then there is the Eicher See, also known as the “Rhine-Hessian Sea”, followed by the Romanesque Lambertus Basilica in Bechtheim or the city wall in Dalsheim. There is a lot to discover.

Let’s linger for a moment in Northern Rhine-Hesse – in Bingen! Here, where the home of the “Heilgen Hildegard” is, the Rhine squeezes through a mountain strait to the north. The legendary Mouse Tower was once a toll tower, i.e. a customs tower. And contrary to what the imposing tradition would suggest, it does not stand at lofty heights, but on the Rhine, or rather in the Rhine, and is more of a left bank of the left bank of the Rhine of Ehrenfels Castle. Of course, even a mouse tower does not change the fact that the Rhine-romantic enthusiasm is ignited by the hilltop castles.

Mainz , meanwhile, convinces with its pretty banks of the Rhine, the Kirschgartenplatz and the many Mainz wine bars. A guided tour of the city is recommended. Mainz is a charming city with many sights.

3 places straight out of a fairy tale – over hill and dale and Hiwwel

“Hiwwel” – that’s what the hills in Rheinhessen are called. There are a total of nine of these hills, two of which are located in northern Rheinhessen. Near Ingelheim, so-called “Hiwwelwanderungen” lead through the largest wine-growing region in Germany.

At Appenheim, the table is always open for hikers. Appenheim is a magical place and at the same time a real Rhine-Hessian resting place. How about wine loungers in the Appenheimer Hundertgulden? Once a month, the stone wall becomes a bar and guests enjoy a glass of wine in a horizontal position with a breathtaking view.

Shielding yourself from the outside world and diving in for a moment: If you are looking for idyllic hiking trails, you will find them in the hollow paths of Westerberg. Once upon a time, heavy carts were pulled here by oxen and horses. Today, the narrow biotopes surprise with a special plant world.

Tip: There is a barrel in Schwabenheim – a special barrel. The idea is terrific: In the barrel there is a refrigerator filled with delicious wines from the Schuck winery. Guests can treat themselves to a drink at any time and leave a donation on the basis of trust.

Top sights in Rheinhessen at a glance:

City wall in Dalsheim
Flonheimer Trullo
Jewish cemetery in Worms
St. Peter’s Cathedral in Worms
Oppenheim Underworlds
St. Martin’s Cathedral in Mainz
Roter Hang in Nierstein
Bingen Kulturufer
Leaning Tower of Gau-Weinheim
Imperial Palace in Ingelheim

Rheinhessen cuisine – a feast for the eyes and palate

Rheinhessen combines three components: wine, customs and food.

Tips for a cosy stop:

Café Augenwaide in Flörsheim-Dalsheim
There is something for all the senses here. The Flower Gifts Paradise opens the round. Ideally, you would like to take everything home with you. The offer is overwhelmingly beautiful. You then reach a charming complex with a garden. Pure relaxation: With coffee and cake, you can watch the sheep graze.

Wasem’s Engelthal Monastery
A good wine at the right time. The monastery is not an ordinary monastery, it is a wine experience world. Hospitality, conviviality and enjoyment – browse, stroll and stop off at the monastery restaurant. At the monastery brunch, guests experience unforgettable culinary delights. Some people want to stay longer. Why not? The rustic wine hotel invites you to a wonderful stay with its comfortably furnished rooms.

Morstein Estate
The chambers of the Morstein estate are no less inspiring. The listed winery is located in the centre of Westhofen. In the courtyard there is a charming restaurant with a beautiful garden. Here you not only feast and snooze comfortably, but also get married here. The estate is the perfect wedding location in Rheinhessen.

Good to know: Rhine-Hessian specialties include potato cake, Spundekäs, asparagus ragout with herb noodles and Handkäs with music, which is so called because it produces digestive sounds thanks to its high proportion of sour milk cheeses.

Result: Rheinhessen is always worth a visit. The people are warm, the food tastes good and the wine is delicious. The region is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful areas in Germany.

Lauterbrunnen and the Lauterbrunnen Valley

PatrickJullien

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13. June 2020

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Lauterbrunnen and the Lauterbrunnen Valley

Lauterbrunnen in the Lauterbrunnen Valley is located in the Bernese Oberland in Switzerland and is embedded between steep rock faces on both sides. This geographical feature attracts base jumpers from all over the world, who plunge into the depths from the surrounding rocky outcrops. From the neighbouring village, a cable car leads to the famous Schilthorn, from where you can enjoy a magnificent and breathtaking view over the mountains and the landscape in the region.

The panoramic revolving restaurant Piz Gloria should be familiar to James Bond fans by sight, as it was the setting for a few scenes from a James Bond film at the end of the sixties. The name of the mountain that gave the restaurant its name is fictitious. The “Piz” refers to the film setting, which was located in Graubünden and is of Rhaeto-Romanic origin, the language of Graubünden. Piz stands for mountain.

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The world-famous waterfalls of Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen Hauptstraße — The main street of Lauterbrunnen, Image: Gaspar Janos / shutterstock

There are a total of 72 waterfalls in the Lauterbrunnen Valley. The most famous are the Staubbach Falls and the Trümmelbach Falls. The Staubbach Falls are almost 300 meters high and shoot from there into the depths. The waterfall can already be seen from the village of Lauterbrunen. This waterfall is particularly dusty, which is due to the thermals in the area. This is where its name comes from. The Trümmelbach Falls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the water comes from the famous Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains.

Over the millennia, a very narrow chasm was washed into the rock face, which is still very narrow today and fascinates and impresses visitors again and again. In it, the stream plunges into the depths in over ten waterfalls. At the top, the waterfalls are so deep in the crevice between the rocks that no daylight reaches them anymore and they are therefore particularly impressive to observe. Since the beginning of the last century, the area around the Trümmerbruchfälle has been made accessible with stairs and paths, and it is now one of the most popular excursion destinations in the Bernese Oberland.

The hiking paradise in the Bernese Oberland

The Lauterbrunnen Valley invites you to extensive hikes, Image: Noah Sauve / shutterstock

The Jungfrau region with its majestic mountain peaks invites you to go on long hikes. The region is known for its numerous hiking trails of all levels of difficulty. A hike through the Lauterbrunnen Valley is highly recommended. Especially in spring, when the snow melts, the streams and waterfalls carry a lot of meltwater and make an impressive picture when the masses of water shoot into the depths.

For climbing enthusiasts, the 900-metre-high Schwarzhorn via ferrata is recommended. The 3000 m high destination can be reached via various ladders and climbing passages. The climbing wall itself can be reached via a one-hour walk from the mountain station. Once at the top, you can enjoy a wonderful view over the entire mountain world of the region.

Excursion to the heights without strenuous hiking up

Staubbach Falls, Lauterbrunnen — The Staubbach Falls, Image: kudla / shutterstock

If you don’t like to walk uphill, the Eiger Trail is just the thing for you. The height can be reached with the Wengernalp cable car and then walk back into the valley. For about two hours, the path leads along the Eiger north face and there is a magnificent view of the valley to enjoy.

Another wonderful excursion is the one to the Schynige Platte. A cogwheel railway travels over seven kilometres in altitude and overcomes almost 1,500 metres in altitude. The nature that has happened is breathtakingly beautiful. Forests, lush flower meadows and summer alpine cattle make for an idyllic picture. Once at the top, the whole thing is topped off with an impressive view of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. The view of the partly snow-covered Alps make the excursion perfect.

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

A trip to the Jungfraujoch is not to be missed. With an altitude of almost 3,500 metres, a certain altitude tolerance is a prerequisite for enjoying the excursion carefree. The Jungfraujoch is one of the most popular travel destinations in Switzerland. This is also because you can take a cable car to the top and there is no need for tedious mountaineering. The station is the highest railway station in Europe. The view of the Aletsch Glacier and the surrounding mountains is fantastic. If the visibility is good, you can see several kilometers away. A special highlight at the summit is a visit to the Ice Palace, where artists have created wonderful sculptures out of ice.

Other ways to explore the area

Those who need a little more adventure spend a day on the bike track. The Grütsch Trail is known for this. Thanks to a mountain railway, there is no need to pedal up and you can concentrate fully on the descent. The route has it all. Steep sections and narrow passages require a lot of skill. The trail is about three kilometers long and covers a distance of 600 meters in altitude. The finish of the route is directly at the valley station. So those who haven’t had enough can go up again and enjoy the descent again.

If you would like to learn something about the history of Switzerland, the Ballenberg open-air museum near Brienz is recommended. Old houses have been transported here from all over Switzerland and can be visited. The site is divided into the individual cantons of Switzerland and many of the buildings can even be visited from the inside.