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Holidays in Rheinhessen – Bridging the Rhine and Nahe

PatrickJullien
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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.

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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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.

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

Lauterbrunnen Valley
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

Jungfraujoch
With the train up to the Jungfraujoch, Image: Gaspar Janos / shutterstock

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.

Valldemossa – the pearl of Mallorca

PatrickJullien
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Valldemossa – the pearl of Mallorca

Majorca has an infinite amount to offer and there is something for every taste. Whether package tourism at Ballermann, Schinkenstraße & Co., the Capital of the island, Palma de Mallorca with its magnificent cathedral or rather the countless small but fine villages and coastal towns – Mallorca is guaranteed to find just the right thing for every holidaymaker. Hardly any other island has such a diverse palette to offer and that’s why the Balearic island is so popular with all tourists, because everyone gets their money’s worth here. Germans affectionately refer to Mallorca as their seventeenth state and would probably adopt it immediately if that were possible.

The most worthwhile thing is to drive across the island with a rental car or, if you prefer, with a two-wheeler or bicycle and get to know it with all its facets. You will discover places and places that invite you to linger dreamily and show Mallorca in all its originality. Quite a few are amazed at how fantastically beautiful the Balearic island can present itself – especially if you have perhaps stayed in one of the bed strongholds in some of the places that can certainly have a certain charm with their offer, but of course cannot keep up with the splendor and authenticity of some delightful smaller towns.

Getting around the northwest of the island

On a discovery tour of the Balearic island of Mallorca, you inevitably come to the northwest of Mallorca, which with its countless serpentines invites cyclists in particular on extended trekking or road bike tours. On the way in the hilly landscape, you will meet large groups again and again, who enjoy the challenging route and once at the top, refresh themselves with a cool drink in one of the cafés. Many cute villages invite you to explore and a walk through the village followed by lunch or coffee is a real experience every time.

These places include various villages in the northwest of Mallorca, but above all you have to visit Deià, Esporles and Sóller. The absolute gem of this region, however, is the small village of Valldemossa, which should not be missed during your stay. Valldemossa is located in the Tramuntana mountains and has just under 2,000 inhabitants. From Palma de Mallorca , you can drive here in about 20 minutes by car and literally immerse yourself in another world, far away from the hustle and bustle of (mass) tourism. Here you can stroll quietly along cobblestone streets and visit this pretty place that has retained its originality.

The history of Valldemossa

According to tradition, the name Valledemossa is dedicated to the Arab ruler Musa, who is said to have owned property on this site. For example, the place name Valle de Musa means, which means “Valley of Musa”. The various kings of the island have also visited Valldemossa often over time, because they appreciated it very much for its extremely pleasant climate in the hot summer months. In the 13th century, King Jaume II. King of Mallorca and built his palace in Valldemossa, which his son Sancho I had further expanded after his death. The Mallorcan population venerates their only saint in Valldemossa, Santa Catalina Thomas. Not far from the church of Sant Bartomeu, you can visit her birthplace and a holy shrine.

In the footsteps of Chopin

Chopin, Valldemossa
Bust of Chopin in Valldemossa, Image: John-Fs-Pic / shutterstock

Valldemossa is visited by fans of classical music but also by many culture enthusiasts to visit the former monastery where the famous Polish composer Frédéric Chopin spent the winter in 1838-1839 together with the French writer George Sand. The two had met through their mutual acquaintance Franz Liszt and had become lovers. Chopin hoped that the mild temperatures would improve his tuberculosis disease. During his stay in Valldemossa, he wrote his famous Préludes op. 28, which also includes the well-known raindrop prelude. The monastery is now open to visitors and can be visited. In various exhibition rooms you can find typical Mallorcan things as well as objects related to Chopin. The Chopin Museum also contains the original piano from the period.

What to see in Valldemossa

Valldemossa Carthusian Monastery
The Carthusian monastery in Valldemossa, Image: David Sandron / shutterstock

Actually, the entire town of Valldemossa is a sight to see, because the small well-kept houses with their flower-covered windows are absolutely worth seeing in themselves. In addition, the surrounding landscape captivates with its terraced shape and the hills of the Tramuntana mountains stretch as far as the eye can see. The highest peak in the region, the Puig des Teix, is particularly popular with hikers. The tiny alleys are equipped with small shops and shops and invite you to relax and browse. Every Sunday there is a street market in Valldemossa where you can buy typical Mallorcan delicacies such as cheese, chorizo or Serrano ham.

The Royal Carthusian Monastery of Real Cartuja used to be part of the Royal Palace and can now be visited with all its components. These include the church, the monastery and the old pharmacy. Countless visitors come every season to explore this truly remarkable area with all its historic buildings. The visit also includes a piano concert with works by the composer Chopin. In Valldemossa there is the Costa Nord Cultural Centre, which provides very vivid information about the Tramuntana mountains and invites you to various cultural events. The American Hollywood actor Michael Douglas had founded the center; he himself owns a house between Deià and Sóller.

Cafés and restaurants galore

Shopping Valldemossa
The small alleys of Valldemossa invite you to a relaxed visit to the place, Image: Rolf E. Staerk / shutterstock

In Valldemossa, you can stop off at one of the many cafés or restaurants and watch the passing tourists and the busy locals in peace. You have a large selection of different restaurants and can feast on the delicious Spanish cuisine with its tapas or other epicurean specialties.

Special tip: The coffee house chain “Cappuccino” is at home in many places in Mallorca, especially in the island’s capital Palma. In Valldemossa, you will find the “Grand Café Cappuccino” directly on the village square, which serves selected coffee and tea specialties. The menu offers selected delicacies at any time of the day and reliably captivates visitors to the holiday island of Mallorca.

 

The most important questions about Valldemossa

Where is Valldemossa?

Valldemossa is located in the northwest of Mallorca in the Serra de Tramuntana region.

How far is it from Palma to Valldemossa?

Valldemossa is located 18km north of Palma in the northwest of Mallorca.

What is the population of Valldemossa?

Valldemossa has just under 2,000 inhabitants.

How high is Valldemossa?

Valldomossa is located at an altitude of 420 meters above sea level.

When is the market in Valldemossa?

The market in Valldemossa takes place every Sunday from 9.00 am to 3.00 pm

 

Caribbean: The Greater Antilles

PatrickJullien
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Caribbean: The Greater Antilles

The myth of the Greater Antilles

Similar to the often mythically glorified and legendary island kingdom of “Atlantis”, which, according to a description by the Greek philosopher Plato from the 4th century, is said to have been a globally important maritime power about 12,000 years ago, but which was destroyed by a severe natural disaster, the phantom island “Antilia”, which was first shown on maps in Europe in the 15th century, probably never existed.

Also referred to as “Ilha das Sete Cidades” (Island of the Seven Cities) in contemporary Arabic and Portuguese sources, it is located approximately at the 31st parallel in the region of today’s Cuba However, in view of the many submarine mountain peaks, freshwater springs and volcanic layers in the tectonically still very active Caribbean, this legendary island might have had a real model after all. Regardless of this question, which has not yet been fully clarified, the island of “Antilia” nevertheless founded the name of the Caribbean archipelago of the Antilles as part of the West Indies off the coasts of Central and South America, according to an assumption accepted by the majority of scholars.

The Greater Antilles are now the largest and most populous part of the Caribbean

When Christopher Columbus first set foot on the eastern Bahamas island of Guanahani (San Salvador) during the discovery of what would later become America, in October 1492, and at the end of December of the same year he also set foot on Hispaniola and Cuba, he and his crew will in all probability have been familiar with the legend about “Antilia”, which was widespread at that time. Initially, however, all islands in the Caribbean were referred to by the Spanish conquerors as Leeward Islands (“Islas de Barlovento”). The British also called the islands in the 18th century mostly “Forward Islands”, the name and the geographical distinction between Greater and Lesser Antilles has only been known since the beginning of the 19th century. Today, the Greater Antilles in the west of the Caribbean, consisting of the islands and archipelagos of Cuba, Hispaniola, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Navassa and Cayman Islands with over 207,000 km² and together currently about 38 million inhabitants, each form around 90 percent of the area and population of all West Indies.

Cuba: The largest island in the Antilles has an extremely eventful history

Cuba
There’s always something going on on Cuba’s streets, Image: EvijaF / shutterstock

With an area of almost 110,000 km² and currently over 11 million inhabitants, the largest island of the Greater Antilles is by far the most famous island in the entire region in terms of landscape, culture, tourism and, last but not least, politics. A Spanish colony from the early 16th century until 1898, Cuba was under US control for a long time until the successful revolution in 1959, despite formal independence. After decades of support from the Soviet Union, the island suffered great economic hardship after the end of the “Eastern Bloc” in the early 1990s in the “Special Period in Peacetime”.

In response, the last officially socialist country in the Western world was opened up to international tourism. In addition to the equally sophisticated and morbid capital Havana, Santiago de Cuba as the second largest city, Cienfuegos on the southern Caribbean coast as well as Santa Clara with Che Guevara’s tomb and Trinidad with the center protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site are among the most visited destinations.

Cayman Islands: As a thank you for sea rescue, the king donated tax exemption

The Cayman Islands, consisting of Grand and Little Cayman as well as Cayman Brac and together about 264 km² in size, are located 350 kilometers south of Cuba. First discovered by Europeans and named “Las Tortugas” because of the many turtles, the archipelago was discovered during Christopher Columbus’ fourth voyage of discovery in May 1503. They got their name “Las Caymanas” because of the numerous pointed crocodiles living there in the early 17th century.

English rule began in 1670, and the first settlements and plantations with African slaves were established from 1730 onwards. According to legend, the current status as a tax haven was granted as early as 1794 by the then British King George III as a thank you for the rescue of a fleet of ships in distress by the islanders. The islands became a crown colony in 1863, still administered jointly with Jamaica, and since 1962 they have been an independent overseas territory of the United Kingdom. Today, bathing and diving tourism in particular play important roles. Well-known and much-visited destinations include Seven Mile Beach, Stingray City and Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, the Cayman Turtle Centre, and the Salina Reserve and Cayman Island Marine Park marine reserves.

Jamaica: Rasta, reggae, rum and ritual smoke have made the island famous

Jamaica Fruit Stand
A typical fruit stand in Jamaica, Image: LBSimms Photography / shutterstock

With an area of almost 11,000 km², the third largest island in the Greater Antilles is currently home to a good 2.7 million inhabitants, more than 90 percent of whom are of African origin. Jamaica is located about 150 kilometers south and west of Cuba and Hispaniola, despite its relatively small size, the island, which is comparatively young in terms of geological history, has amazingly diverse and different landscapes. The interior of the island is dominated by mountain ranges up to more than 2,200 meters high, such as the Blue Mountains in the east and known as a growing area for the exquisite and expensive coffee variety “Jamaican Blue Mountain”. The coasts of the island are mostly much flatter, dreamlike tropical beaches like from a picture book are for example Doctor’s Cave Beach Club in Montego Bay, Bluefields Beach Park in Westmoreland and Reggae Beach between Ocho Rios and Oracabessa on the north coast, named after Jamaica’s musical export hit. The genuinely Jamaican style of music, cultivated by the Rastafarian religious community that emerged on the island in the 1930s, also became globally popular in the 1970s. Often adorned with imposing “dreadlocks” (felt curls), most Rastas reject the consumption of the excellent rum from Jamaica, but like to enjoy the cannabis they call “ganja” and revered as sacred and healing.

Navassa Island: The tiny uninhabited island is strategically important at best

The only 5.4 km² in size, first entered in 1504 by stranded Spanish sailors and built in the second half of the From the 19th century to 1898, the island, which was intensively used for the mining of the naturally occurring fertilizer phosphorite, had been used since the early In the 20th century, it was only sporadically inhabited by a few U.S. military personnel and scientists. Since December 1999, Navassa Island has been completely protected as a “United States Minor Outlying Island” claimed by the USA and may not be entered.

As a travel destination, the lonely island a good 54 kilometers from the westernmost point of Haiti is therefore not of interest. However, the island has strategic value for the United States due to its proximity to the notorious “Guantanamo Bay Naval Base” on the southeast coast of Cuba. Navassa made headlines in 1996 and 2005 when a documentary filmmaker and a former Somali honorary consul ultimately tried unsuccessfully to assert territorial claims in court or with the establishment of a micronation.

Hispaniola: Two relatively different brothers share the Caribbean “Spain” today

With an area of almost 76,500 km², the second largest island in both the Greater Antilles and the West Indies between Cuba, Jamaica and Puerto Rico was populated by up to three million members of the Arawak and Ciboney Indian peoples until the arrival of the Spaniards in 1492. After the beginning of Spanish colonial rule in the 16th century, their number decreased rapidly to almost complete extinction due to imported epidemics and inhumane slave labor.

Various bloody uprisings by indigenous and black slaves, raids by pirates, armed conflicts between the fiercely competing colonial powers Spain and France , as well as civil wars and natural disasters shaped Hispaniola’s eventful history until the middle of the 19th century. Since 1844, the smaller Haiti in the west and the Dominican Republic in the east, which is almost twice as large, have shared the island. The latter in particular, with its tourist centres Puerto Plata, Samaná, Punta Cana and Bávaro, has developed into a popular destination for beach holidays since the 1980s. Other popular destinations in the “Dominican Republic” are Cabarete, Playa Dorada and Las Terrenas, as well as Bayahibe, Barahona, Boca Chica and Río San Juan. In Haiti, which is much poorer and less developed in terms of infrastructure, the beautiful beaches at Cape-Haïtien in the north and the cities of Jacmel and Port Salut as well as the small island of Île à Vache in the south are well-known and well-visited holiday areas.

Puerto Rico: The Caribbean outpost of the USA is a small but fine destination

Salinas, Puerto Rico
View of the community of Salinas in Puerto Rico, Image: Felix Lipov / shutterstock

Puerto Rico, the smallest island in the Greater Antilles with an area of more than 9,000 km² and currently about 3.2 million inhabitants, is a majority Spanish-speaking territory of almost 95 percent of the United States of America, which has not been incorporated since 1898. Although the dollar is the official currency and all Puerto Ricans have had US citizenship since 1917, the island is not yet an official federal state.

With up to 3.7 million foreign visitors per year, Puerto Rico is not only a popular destination for US citizens, but also for numerous European guests, primarily from France, Great Britain and Germany . The most famous beaches, as well as those best equipped with gastronomy and accommodation, are Balneario de Rincón Boquerón (Cabo Rojo), El Tuque (Barrio Canas), Cayos de Caña Gorda (Guánica), Crash Boat Beach (Aguadilla) and Flamenco Beach in Culebra, as well as Playita del Condado and the approximately 40 different stretches of beach around the town of Ponce on the south coast. The historic center of the capital San Juan, the partially accessible cave system in the Parque de las Cavernas del Río Camuy in the northwest and the ecologically interesting El Yunque National Park in the northeast are also recommended for excursions.

Île de Ré – paradise on the French west coast

PatrickJullien
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Île de Ré – paradise on the French west coast

Dreamlike sandy beaches, a wonderfully healthy sea breeze, picturesque villages, breathtaking dune landscapes, French culture, charm and unforgettable memories – this and much more is offered by the idyllic island of “Île de Ré” in the west of France.

A pearl in the Atlantic Ocean

The beautiful Île de Ré is located in the French department of Charente-Maritime, not far from the neighboring islands of Île-d’Aix, Île d’Oléron and the famous Fort Boyard fortress. Via a toll bridge from the nearest large city of La Rochelle, the “Ré la Blanche” – as it is often called by the locals – is connected to the mainland. With a length of 2926.5 meters, the spectacular structure can be crossed by car, on foot or by bicycle. The latter is considered the most popular means of transport on the almost 85 km² island.

Attractive holiday destination for everyone

Beaches on Ile de Re
The Île de Ré offers spacious stalls, Image: Alexander Demyanenko / shutterstock

Whether families, couples or singles – the Ile de Ré welcomes thousands of visitors from near and far every year and inspires not least with a wide range of leisure activities. As a real magnet for sports lovers, nature lovers and those seeking relaxation, the island convinces with a wonderful landscape and that certain something. Numerous accommodation options for every taste and in every price category enable the perfect holiday experience. While the classic campsites with mobile homes, tents and pitches are particularly popular among families and adventure seekers, charming holiday homes invite you to linger quietly. You can also relax extensively in one of the luxurious hotels with corresponding spa and wellness facilities – the Île de Ré leaves nothing to be desired!

Beach and swimming fun on the Île de Ré

The flagship of the “Ré la Blanche” are the numerous beautiful and long sandy beaches. They allow you to relax, bathe, do sports and play for hours – attention: don’t forget sun protection! Windsurfing, kitesurfing, catamaran sailing and many other water sports offer pure joy and joie de vivre in the Atlantic Ocean, which is up to 24 °C warm during the high season. The picturesque and protected dune landscapes around the island also provide a romantic feel-good ambience. During low tide, passionate fishermen like to go on the rocky outcrops equipped with landing nets and accessories in search of delicacies such as oysters, crustaceans, fish, mussels and more – a real highlight for all beginners and professionals of all ages.

Other leisure activities on the island

Ile de Ré
The bicycle is the typical means of transport on the island, Image: Zzzz17 / shutterstock

With the constant scent of the magnificent pine and cypress trees on the nose, the island’s forests are ideal for relaxing walks, bike rides or horseback rides. Visitors will find bicycle rentals in almost every village. Because of the more than 110 km of car-free cycle paths, the bicycle is the main means of transport on the Île de Ré. Around the Port de Saint-Martin-de-Ré, the pretty harbour of the island’s “capital”, anglers, boat owners, day-trippers, shoppers and gourmets come together. The regular markets in the different municipalities of the island are another special feature. In the midst of the French lightness and serenity, you can stroll, haggle and marvel at the market stalls. From freshly caught fish, crunchy vegetables and fruit to antiques, clothes and lots of knick-knacks, every visitor will find what they are looking for here.

Popular sights and other special features of the island

It often characterises the postcards and souvenirs of the Île de Ré: the “Phare des Baleines” – a lighthouse built between 1849 and 1854. The plateau of the 57-metre-high tower can be visited via a 257-step, imposing spiral staircase. Once at the top, visitors can expect an outstanding panoramic view over the island and the expanses of the ocean. At the foot of the building there are various shops and restaurants to explore.

The associated beach is a popular bathing beach, where on some days waves up to three meters high can be observed – perfect for surfing! Ruins of the monastery of Notre-Dame-de-Ré or the Fort de la Prée fortress allow those interested in culture to take an exciting journey into the past. The Parc de la Babette near Saint-Martin is a popular place for a leisurely stroll and a little round of mini golf. In addition, the island’s mascots, the “Ânes en culottes”, can be admired here. It is the endangered large donkey breed of Poitou donkeys, which wear real “pants” and are culturally important. A real highlight for children is a short riding tour on the back of a donkey.

Culinary delights and culinary specialties

Fish and seafood dominate the menus in the island’s many attractive restaurants – but fresh ray, tuna, mussels, lobsters and oysters are only a small part of what the island has to offer in terms of excellent food. Also perfectly grilled steak with spices from the region, classic pizza, vegetarian and vegan – everything is possible here! A local specialty of the island comes from the traditional salt marshes, which visitors can visit at any time in a guided tour. Many bike trails lead right past the gardens and offer a glimpse of the culture. The precious fleur de sel and the coarse salt of the Île de Ré are in a class of their own and are highly regarded around the globe. In addition to a wide range of regional wines, it is also a popular souvenir for loved ones.

The Île de Ré offers the best conditions for a dream holiday – and not only in summer. Romantic walks along the coast, the healthy air, hospitality and peaceful forests make the island an attractive destination even in the cooler seasons.

Lake Iseo surprises and inspires

PatrickJullien
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Lake Iseo surprises and inspires

Nestled in a magnificent natural setting lies one of the most beautiful lakes in northern Italy – Lake Iseo, Italian Lago d’Iseo. It is one of the famous northern Italian lakes, but is much less overcrowded with tourists than neighboring Lake Garda. While there, just like Lake Como or Lake Maggiore, many international visitors ensure hectic holiday activity, Lake Iseo is a real oasis of peace. Its shores are a popular destination for Italian families on weekends or holidays. As a foreign visitor, you have the pleasant feeling of being a rare but always welcome guest in an almost private part of Italy.

An idyll on the southern edge of the Alps

Lake Iseo is conveniently located not far from the AA motorway, about 50 km west of Lake Garda. Milan International Airport is less than a two-hour drive away. From the Gotthard tunnel or the Brenner Pass, it takes just under three hours to drive. With a length of 25 km and an area of 65 square kilometers, Lake Iseo is the fourth largest of the northern Italian lakes. For comparison, Lake Garda covers an area that is more than 6 times as large. In the middle of Lake Iseo stands Monte Isola, an island with a mountain almost 400 m high.

Monte Isola is one of the “I borghi più belli d’Italia” – the most beautiful places in Italy. The steep rock faces along Lago d’Iseo provide special climatic conditions. Fall winds make the lake a paradise for windsurfers and sailors. There are numerous sheltered beaches, which are somewhat hidden, but wonderfully comfortable. Directly adjacent to the lake is the Franciacorta wine-growing region. It is famous for its excellent Spumante – noble sparkling wines whose quality is on a par with the legendary champagne.

Enchanting places line the shores of Lake Iseo

Time seems to have stood still a little on Lake Iseo. There are no large hotel castles, shopping miles or even discotheques or nightclubs. Instead, beautiful small hotels directly on the shore, family guesthouses, cozy restaurants, romantic alleys and market squares. On a drive around the lake, you get an inspiring impression of this enchanting holiday region. The roads are artfully carved into the rock over long stretches and always offer magnificent views of the lake and the islands.

Resorts on Lake Iseo

The main town is named after the lake – Iseo

The small town has just under 10,000 inhabitants and is located on the southern shore of Lake Iseo. The long and well-kept waterfront promenade is lined with numerous palm trees. On the café terraces you can enjoy the fantastic view of the surrounding peaks with a cappuccino or a glass of Spumante . The ferries of the Navigazione sul Lago d’Iseo start in the small port. They connect all the towns and also run regularly to Monte Isola. A few kilometers further north is the small community of Sulzano. It was at the center of the international art world in the summer of 2016, when the famous artist couple Christo and Jeanne Claude installed their “Floating Piers” here. On the floating paths covered with colorful fabric, anyone could walk over to the island of Monte Isola and even completely circle the small island of San Paolo.

Most popular places – Lovere and Sarnico

Sarnico on Lake Iseo, Image: SchnepfDesign / shutterstock

The village of Lovere on the northern shore offers its guests a variety of amenities. Around the impressive marina there is a varied promenade where flea markets and small concerts take place. In less good weather, the spacious indoor pool offers comfortable opportunities to swim. The historic town centre with the old town tower and the Tadini Academy is worth a long walk. Particularly worth seeing is the church of Santa Maria from 1473.

Sarnico in the south offers its guests a 100 m long bathing jetty in the beautifully landscaped outdoor pool Lido Nettuno. The main attraction of the friendly little town, however, are the numerous Art Nouveau villas, which were built at the end of the 19th century for the Faccanoni family of entrepreneurs. The church of San Martino and the Cappella dei Mortini with their wonderfully restored old frescoes are also worth a detailed visit.

Sights along Lake Iseo

The church in Pisogne

The small church of Santa Maria della Neve is also known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Poor”. The painter Romanino created these impressive frescoes between 1534 and 1536. They show many people of that time in great detail and still give a very interesting impression of rural life around Lake Iseo.

The hiking and nature paradise of Monte Isola

Monte Isola, Lake Iseo
Monte Isola, Image: MicheleRossetti / shutterstock

This large island dominates the landscape of Lake Iseo. The high mountain is densely covered with olive trees and offers wonderful opportunities for beautiful walks, sporty hikes or extensive bike tours. The main town of Peschiera Maraglio has a great atmosphere and lives up to its claim to be one of the most beautiful places in Italy at every turn. At the highest point of the island stands the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola. The approximately one-hour hike there is rewarded with probably the most beautiful view of Lake Iseo and in a small bar you will find the necessary refreshment. Cars are not allowed on Monte Isola, but some bus lines offer comfortable connections to the idyllic little island towns.

Rügen, island of originality

PatrickJullien
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Rügen, island of originality

Over a large bridge you move towards the island. To the left the safe harbor and the spire of Stralsund, to the right a first idea of the Baltic Sea. Here you are welcome to comment on the water: “It’s pretty wavy.” or “The sea seems calm today.” As soon as you have given the blue-green water one or two attributes, you are already on the island: the largest island in Germany: Rügen. Look back again and see how stress and everyday problems blur somewhere in the distance. And then look ahead: There are many beautiful island moments waiting for you!

For me, the most beautiful thing about Rügen is the opportunity to find a place for yourself. There are many places here that offer you complete peace and seclusion with sea views. However, there is enough to experience here. I’ll show you some striking, beautiful points and possibilities.

Viewpoints on Rügen

Overview of the island

Rugard Tower

Rugardturm Rügen
Rugard Tower, Image: Stephanie von Kellertuer.com

After a short walk through the city center of Bergen, you can go up to the Rugard Tower with its glass-domed roof. Actually, it’s called the Ernst Moritz Arndt Tower, it got the name Rugard from the elevation on which it lies.

You can get the key to the tower yourself, at the reception of the hotel “Am Rugard” restaurant. Enjoy the view!

Granitz Hunting Lodge

Rügen Hunting Lodge
The hunting lodge, Image: Stephanie von Kellertuer.com

From the platform of the hunting lodge you also have an insanely wide view. Before that, however, you have to climb a “floating” metal staircase, which is certainly a challenge for one or the other. Once at the top, it’s worth it!

Treetop Walk

Treetop Walk Rügen
View from the treetop walk, picture: Stephanie von Kellertuer.com

The newcomer among the possibilities to view Rügen from above: the treetop pad in Prora. It goes high up between the treetops, from above you can also see the sea.

 

Special sights on Rügen

These places are unique and worth at least one visit

Chalk cliffs and Königsstuhl in the Jasmund National Park

Chalk cliffs Rügen
The chalk cliff, picture: Stephanie von Kellertuer.com

The sight of the chalk cliffs is impressive. They tower like white giants, the chalk sometimes making the water on the coast shine bright turquoise. From the Viktoriasicht, a free viewing platform on the edge of the cliffs, you can look far out onto the Baltic Sea.

Flint fields

Flintstone flat rate – you can experience a walk of an unusual kind at the Feuersteinfelder. The whole floor is covered with flints. You just walk over them and can enjoy nature.

 

Beautiful beaches on Rügen

Swimming in the Baltic Sea or in the Bodden, chilling on the beach or strolling

Binz

Endless rows of beach chairs, beautiful promenade with the iconic spa architecture. Here you can enjoy the upscale island flair.

Göhren

Just like the beaches next door – Sellin, Göhren, Baabe – you can simply experience pure bathing fun here and stroll along a pretty little promenade. There is also a pier here.

Sellin

Many steps lead you down to the beach or to the Sellin pier, which also offers a restaurant and café. There is also an elevator leading down.

Beautiful places for walks on Rügen

Ralswiek

In summer, the Störtebeker Festival takes place here. However, Ralswiek is also wonderful for a long walk. Past the harbour towards the forest and always along the water. Nature seems so rough and original here.

Putbus

Putbus, also known as the white city, is an eye-catcher. In the “Circus”, a roundabout of white houses, red roses climb up in contrast to the bright house facades. This is a wonderful place to stroll.

Fishing village of Vitt

Vitt is located on the northernmost part of Rügen, here you can see thatched roofs and there is freshly smoked fish. Walk along the water and enjoy.

 

 

About the author, Stephanie:

Rügen is the island of my heart. I spent many, many days of my childhood on this island and at least once a year I am ready to travel to the sea, to Rügen. As a Berliner, Rügen is the contrast to the big city, offers fresh air and space for thoughts and happiness.

On my blog Kellertür I write about cycling, traveling and Berlin. Escaping the big city is often on the agenda. Take a look or follow me on Facebook to find out about the latest articles.

 

Azerbaijan – the land of fire

PatrickJullien
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Azerbaijan – the land of fire

The state of Azerbaijan is located between the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains and has a total area of just over 86 square kilometers. The special thing about the country is not only the considerable oil reserves, but above all the different climate zones, which not only provide varied landscapes, but also create habitats for over 18,000 animal species and breathtaking flora. Of these, more than 100 different mammal species are native to Azerbaijan, such as the gazelle, which is also a protected species, bears, wolves, wild boars and even seals. In total, over 360 different bird species are also represented in Azerbaijan, including flamingos and pelicans.

Baku – the city of burning towers

If you have chosen Azerbaijan as your travel destination, you should definitely visit the country’s capital Baku . In addition to tradition and history, the city also offers numerous other entertainment options.

Particularly interesting is a walk through the historic old town, which is still largely surrounded by a wall and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. In addition to the Maiden’s Tower, which dates back to the 11th century and is one of Baku’s most important landmarks, you will find the Shirwan Shah Palace and the Fountain Square, where numerous shows, festivals and events take place.

Flame Towers Baku, Azerbaijan
The Flame Towers of Baku, Image: Milosz Maslanka / shutterstock

Another landmark of Baku and at the same time currently the tallest buildings in the city, are the three flame towers, which not only immediately catch the eye due to their height, but also form a huge contrast to the many historical buildings and thus immediately attract attention. In the evening, the flames are lit up in a colourful and colourful way, casting a fascinating shimmer on the buildings and streets in front of the flame towers.

Very close to Baku is the mountain called Yanar Dag and is a true natural phenomenon, as it has been burning for over 1,000 years. Natural gas rises through natural and very high pressure and ignites many small fires on the ground, some of which climb up the rock faces, some of them with a height of three meters.

To relax, take a boat tour on the Caspian Sea, the largest lake in the world.

https://youtu.be/2gSL5wGPNEM

Qobustan – an extraordinary national park

Qobustan National Park
Qobustan National Park, Image: Kasia_Przygodzka / shutterstock

The national park has a size of almost 50 square kilometers and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. Visitors can’t help but be amazed, because some things to discover can only be found in Qobustan worldwide. In caves and rock walls there are over 6,000 petroglyphs carved into the stone, some of which are said to be more than 10,000 years old. Most of the drawings depict animals and people, but also pictures of hunting, boats with warriors and battle scenes.

Also very interesting is the music stone, which is also located in the national park and is called Gaval Dash. A smaller stone is used to hit the Gaval Dash and thus triggers fascinating sounds. Oil, gas and the climate are responsible for the formation of natural stone.

The mud volcanoes are another highlight of Qobustan and attract numerous visitors every day who do not want to miss this impressive and fun natural spectacle. There are only about 700 mud volcanoes worldwide, of which more than 300 are located around Qobustan alone. Natural gas, which rises from the ground or from the volcano, transforms the mud into sometimes huge bubbles, which then burst with a funny sound. Every 15 to 20 years, one of these volcanoes erupts and a huge mass of mud spreads throughout the area.

Also very close to Qobustan is a natural gas pond, where the gas bubbles and bubbles in all places, as well as an oil pond, a large and oily waterhole.

Naftalan – the oil baths of Azerbaijan

If you want to do something good for yourself and your body, Naftalan is the place to be. The city is located in the west of Azerbaijan and is known for its numerous facilities where you can bathe in pure petroleum as well as for the large healing center where various skin diseases such as rheumatism and arthritis are treated.

Since the 12th century, people from different countries have been coming to Naftalan to benefit from the soothing and healing oil baths. Marco Polo was also enthusiastic about the oil baths and publicly reported on his experiences. The crude oil is also said to have a relaxing, cleansing and disinfecting effect on the skin

Holidays in Denmark

PatrickJullien
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Holidays in Denmark

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Denmark is one of the most popular German travel destinations ever. And for good reason. Because the Scandinavian peninsula not only offers countless historical and cultural sightseeing highlights. In addition to that, there is also beautiful Copenhagen. However, the No. 1 holiday reason for German tourists is the nature holiday on the North Sea. Fresh air, beautiful beaches and a relaxed ambience – it doesn’t get any better than this. Where to stay for the perfect Denmark vacation and what other insider tips there are, we reveal in this guide.

The best methods for a holiday in Denmark

There is no question that Denmark is really a wonderful holiday destination. But what exactly is the best way to travel to the north now? Is a campsite the best choice? Or rather the holiday home?

  • Holidays in a hotel: Denmark is not really known for its hotel complexes. Yet the Scandinavian country boasts some of the most stunning and classy hotels in Northern Europe. The only disadvantage is that these are rather rare in the middle of Denmark’s beautiful nature.
  • Holiday in a holiday home: Holiday homes in Denmark combine the best of all worlds: the comfort of your own home combined with the beautiful nature outside. It doesn’t get any better than this! There are also a wide variety of types of holiday homes. So you can then choose the perfect holiday home according to your own wishes and ideas. How about a holiday home in Blavand, for example?
  • Holidays at the campsite: Camping holidays in Denmark are an absolute classic. And quite rightly so. After all, Danish campsites promise beautiful nature and excellent sanitary facilities.

More tips for your holiday in Denmark

Life in Scandinavia is generally a bit more expensive than in the rest of Europe. And of course, this is especially true for a holiday in Denmark. Accommodation, sightseeing and daily life all cost a little more. Of course, it’s great if you could save something elsewhere. And that’s exactly why we’ve come up with these three tips:

  1. Buy food in Germany

As already mentioned, everyday items in particular are more expensive in Denmark than in Germany. Therefore, we recommend that you do your shopping in Germany, especially for campers and trips to a holiday home. Of course, only non-perishable things. Nevertheless – buying all non-perishable goods in Germany saves a lot of money.

  1. Book in time

As with any holiday, the same applies to Denmark: Booking in good time saves a lot of money. Because the earlier you book, the lower the prices for accommodation usually are. And by the way, you can then secure your own dream accommodation without stress.

  1. Observe speed limits

Denmark has a much tougher road traffic law than Germany. Even slight speeding can quickly cost a lot of money. In the worst case, there is even the threat of a driving ban.

A holiday in Denmark promises a lot of fun, breathtaking nature and beautiful memories for eternity. So it can be worthwhile to book your trip to Denmark today. And if you follow our tips for your holiday, the perfect Denmark holiday is guaranteed.

Discover nature and culture in Thuringia as a travel destination

PatrickJullien
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Discover nature and culture in Thuringia as a travel destination

In the north of Thuringia, the densely wooded Harz heights enchant nature enthusiasts with a wide network of hiking trails. The vibrant cities of Gera, Weimar and Erfurt attract visitors with a colourful range of exciting sights. And the historic Wartburg Castle invites you to visit as an almost world-famous sight. The Thuringian Forest, a wildly romantic low mountain range and the flat landscape of the Thuringian Basin characterise the varied landscape of Thuringia. The popular holiday region in the heart of Germany is easy to reach from all directions and offers interesting leisure activities for young and old.

Explore attractions in Thuringia

Wartburg, Thuringia
The Wartburg, Image: IURII BURIAK / shutterstock

If you take a stroll through Thuringia, you will discover numerous interesting sights, such as the romantic Hanstein castle ruins, the Kyffhäuser monument or the castle ruins of the legendary Emperor Barbarossa. The Dornburg Castles building ensemble, enthroned on a steep slope above the Saale, houses an interesting museum. And the mighty Ranis Castle in the Saale-Orla district was once the imperial castle of numerous German kings and emperors.

The historically very important Wartburg Castle towers above Lutherstadt Eisenach. Since 1999, the building, in which Martin Luther translated the Old Testament into German in 1551/2, has been a World Heritage Site. During a tour, you will also visit the 40-metre-long ballroom and the Luther Room.

The home of the well-known poet Goethe in Weimar attracts many visitors.
The City Museum houses exciting exhibitions about Weimar’s history. And the DDR Museum Apolda takes you back in time.

Hiking fun in Thuringia – at the pulse of nature

German National Theatre, Weimar
The German National Theatre, Image: canadastock / shutterstock

If you are looking for active recreation or sporting challenges, you will find what you are looking for in Thuringia: The wildly romantic Slate Mountains or the idyllic Thuringian Forest run through a wide, well-signposted network of trails for hiking enthusiasts and mountain bikers, regardless of whether you love leisurely walks or challenging routes.

The Rennsteig high-altitude hiking trail, which is more than 160 kilometres long, offers hikers magnificent views and leads you through the Thuringian Slate Mountains, the Thuringian Forest and the Bavarian Franconian Forest.

Cyclists like to follow the Hercules-Wartburg Cycle Path, which leads past Eisenach into the Thuringian Forest.

Near Eisenach there is a narrow, partly only 70cm wide gorge, which you can cross on a wildly romantic wooden footbridge. Nature has created a unique scenery here. The quietly rippling Marienbach accompanies you on your hiking adventure through the Dragon Gorge. Afterwards, it is recommended to follow the hiking trail in the direction of the Rennsteig to the Hohe Sonne; because from here it is only a stone’s throw to the Hischstein viewpoint.

Summer, sun and great excursions

Erfurt, Thuringia
View of Erfurt, Image: photo20ast / shutterstock

In the warm season, around 30 clear bathing waters allow young and old holiday guests to have refreshing bathing fun. The Eberswiese mountain lake is surrounded on three sides by rock faces and is a paradise for good swimmers. The Bleiloch Dam is the largest reservoir in Germany. There are idyllic bathing spots here, for example ‘Am Strandbad’ in Saalburg. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy various water sports at the Bleiloch Dam and recreational captains like to sail across the water sparkling in the sun on an excursion boat.

A colourful range of varied excursion destinations provides plenty of holiday fun in Thuringia. In the Thuringian Forest, for example, exciting climbing adventures await you in the high ropes course. Or would you rather take part in a dwarf tour through the stalactite cave? In the fairy grottoes it is ‘Glück auf!’ An experienced cave guide will be happy to show you the fascinating world underground.

A winter holiday in Thuringia

Thuringia is also worth a visit in the cold months and offers the best conditions for a relaxing winter holiday.

Believe it or not, 16 winter sports areas offer skiing and tobogganing fun.
The most famous among them is the Oberhof ski area, which extends up to 830m above sea level. The 800m long Fallbach slope attracts alpine skiers with sporting challenges. The adjoining snow park is an Eldorado for snowboarders. And various bobsleigh and luge competitions regularly provide variety.
Those who prefer to have fun away from the slopes can also look forward to a wide network of winter hiking trails and cross-country ski trails in the district of Saalfeld. At Lehesten am Wetzstein, there are around 28 groomed trails available for cross-country skiers. And families whiz down the Arnsgereuth toboggan hill with blowing hair, laughing.

Fine and hearty food for connoisseurs

Thuringian cuisine is considered down-to-earth and traditionally spoils gourmets with solid home cooking. The Thuringian grilled sausage is known far beyond the country’s borders.

But Thuringia attracts travelers with a variety of culinary delicacies for every taste.

Hearty roasts with Thuringian dumplings and sauce are among the most popular delicacies in Lutherstadt Eisenstadt.

Since 1828, the Wartburg Brewery has been delighting thirsty throats with its drinks. The ‘Schwarzer Esel’, a quaffable black beer, is considered a special speciality.
Why not take a culinary tour through Thuringian cuisine and try the beer soup with bread cubes, which has been popular since the 16th century.
For dessert in Thuringia, you will be served the seductively sweet sour cream cake with fruit.

Festivals and celebrations throughout the year

  • From the maypole setting in Erfurt to the Biathlon World Cup in Oberhof, Thuringia is the venue for lively festivals and celebrations all year round.
  • The Krämerbrückenfest in Erfurt is the largest old town festival in Thuringia and invites you to join in the celebrations with music, cabaret and culinary delights. The medieval market and the eagerly awaited fireworks display with laser show every year are among the highlights of the Krämerbrückenfest.
  • In 1653, the Weimar Onion Festival was first mentioned in a document. Framed by a multifaceted cultural programme on numerous stages, the Onion Festival today offers colourful entertainment. Be sure to try the spicy bacon or onion tart.
  • During the Advent season, Thuringia is transformed into a magical winter fairy tale. Romantic Christmas markets make Thuringia’s towns and cities shine in special splendour.
  • More than 200 wooden stalls with handicrafts and delicious goods stretch out at the Weimar Christmas Market between Wenigemarkt and the Cathedral Square. At the Goethe-Schiller Monument, an ice rink provides great fun for young and old skaters every year.
  • In front of the impressive backdrop of the cathedral, the Erfurt Christmas market has been taking place for well over 150 years. This is considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany.
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