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Corsica – Mountains in the sea with French flair

PatrickJullien
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Corsica – Mountains in the sea with French flair

The magic of Corsica was already known to the ancient Greeks, who gave the fourth largest Mediterranean island its name “Kallisté” – the beautiful. Mass tourism still does not exist on the island today. Most holidaymakers come to swim, hike or ski. High mountains, which rise up to 2,500 meters into the air, characterize the interior of the island. The approximately 325,000 inhabitants of Corsica speak the traditional island language Corsican. However, French is the official language in Corsica.

Port cities reminiscent of the Côte d’Azur

Wide boulevards reminiscent of the Cote d’Azur, a palm-lined waterfront promenade and Mediterranean flair characterize Ajaccio, the administrative center of Corsica and, with around 60,000 inhabitants, also the largest city on the island. The cosmopolitan island metropolis is the birthplace of Napoléon Bonaparte. The island’s most famous son is still omnipresent today. Napoleon Museum, Napoleon Grotto, Napoleon’s Birthplace and three heroic monuments commemorate the Corsica-born emperor and general. One of the most beautiful sights of the port city is the Notre-Dame-de-la-Misericorde Cathedral, built between 1587 and 1593, whose mighty dome and cruciform ground plan resemble the Byzantine architectural style. The Musée Fesch, the central art museum, houses a collection of important works of Italian painting from the 14th to the 18th centuries.

Coastal towns with a romantic old town

Corsica
Image: Naeblys / shutterstock

In the north of the island lies the coastal town of Saint-Florent with its romantic old town. The fine, long sandy beaches made the small village a popular holiday resort. Bonifacio is the southernmost city in Corsica and is located on a narrow promontory. On a high plateau above white limestone cliffs is the old town of Bonifacio. Located below the old town, the vantage point offers a breathtaking view on a clear day, reaching far across the Mediterranean Sea to the neighbouring island of Sardinia. The secret capital of Corsica is the small town of Corte, located in the heart of the island. The old town with the citadel is enthroned 400 meters high on a mighty rock. In the old town alleys with their small shops, boutiques and cozy restaurants, there is lively life, because Corte has the only university in Corsica and numerous students live in the cozy town.

Climbing and mountaineering in Corsica

Santa Giulia, Corsica
View of Santa Giulia beach, Image: Samuel Borges Photography / shutterstock

Corsica is an island with a rich variety of vegetation. The island consists of almost 86 percent mountains. The Mediterranean island is therefore considered an insider tip for short mountain trips and extended hiking tours. Climbers, mountaineers and hikers will find overnight accommodation in hostels and holiday apartments in the small mountain villages. There are also more than 200 campsites in Corsica.

Most of the towns and villages in the interior of the island are easily accessible for a day trip. The island is also called the “mountain range in the sea” because more than 50 peaks are higher than 2,000 meters. An extensive network of hiking trails with over 2,000 kilometres of hiking trails runs through the mountainous landscape of the island. The longest hiking route in Corsica is the 220-kilometre-long Grande Randonnée 20. The Corsican long-distance hiking trail connects the villages of Calanzana in the north and Conca in the south. The most famous hiking region in Corsica is the Restonica Valley, located near Corte.

White sand and turquoise waters, the most beautiful beaches on the island of Corsica

Port of Bastia
Traditional fishing boats in the port of Bastia, Image: Pawel Kazmierczak / shutterstock

The coastal landscape of the island stretches for more than 1,047 kilometers. The most famous sandy beach is Palombaggia Beach in Porto Vecchio, surrounded by red rocks. White sand, turquoise waters as far as the eye can see and green pine forests in the hinterland make Palombaggia beach one of the most beautiful beaches in Corsica. Worth seeing is the black beach of Nonza, which is located in the north of the island and is one of the less visited beach sections. The black beach of di Nonza offers a unique spectacle of colours.

On one side, the view is immersed in the deep turquoise blue of the Mediterranean Sea, while on the shore, the black hue of the sand amazes the observer. Gently sloping beaches can be found in the five-kilometre-long bay of Calvi. Unpaved gravel roads lead to the snow-white sandy bay of Saleccia, which is surrounded by a protected natural landscape. The fine-grained sandy beach can also be reached by water on a boat trip from the resorts of Ile Rousse and Saint Florent in the high season.

Corsican cuisine: rustic and rich

Rustic and hearty – Corsica’s cuisine still has this reputation today. The islanders love it down-to-earth. Sausage specialties such as Sangui (black pudding) are served. Sausages and meat products are usually refined with Corsican mountain herbs. A special flavour is provided by the herbs of the maquis such as basil, thyme, rosemary, marjoram and myrtle, as well as wild cultivations that give the dishes their typical aroma. Among the meat and sausage specialties of the Mediterranean island are Figatellu, a smoked raw sausage made from liver, the sirloin Lonzu and Coppa, which is reminiscent of a rolled roast. Culinary experiences include the buttery soft ham Prisutu, grilled bacon panzetta, goat ham Caprettu or lamb ham (Agnellu) made according to traditional methods.

All cheese? Popular cheeses from Corsica

Ajaccio, Corsica
Ajaccio, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock

Corsica is home to many types of cheese. Brocciu, a sheep’s or goat’s cheese, is also used as a filling for dishes such as ravioli, beignets (doughnuts) and tartes (tartlets) or eaten as a brocciu omelette with peppermint. When matured, the popular cheese is available as the spicy variety Vieux Brocciu. The best goat’s or sheep’s cream cheese is made in Corsica between Easter and All Saints’ Day. During this time, the animals mainly get to eat young grasses and herbs, which ensure that milk and cheese become particularly spicy with their aromas. The national dish of Corsica is pulenta. The porridge made of water and chestnut flour is eaten at any time of the year. Usually wild boar liver or figatellu is served with pulenta.

Cap Corse: a very special aperitif

A delicious aperitif is always part of a good meal in Corsica. More than 100 years ago, the Corsican Louis Napoleon Mattei created the “Cap Corse” from muscat wine and quinquina (cinchona bark). The special herbal recipe contains other plants in addition to cinchona bark. Cap Corse owes its distinctive, tart aroma to the extracts of the cinchona tree. The headquarters of the liquor merchant Mattei is located in the town of Bastia on Place Saint Nicolas and is also worth seeing because of the shop furnishings, which are designed in the style of a colonial goods store. However, the production of the first Corsican beers did not begin until 1995. Pietra beer differs from traditional beers by the addition of chestnut flour, which is added before fermentation.

Mexico – Land of Contrasts

PatrickJullien
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0
Mexico – Land of Contrasts

Mexico – skulls and Madonnas, rainforest and desert, vibrant cities and breathtaking ruins, land of stark contrasts in culture and nature, striding and arguing from crisis to crisis. There is frightening poverty, unfathomable wealth; a country full of rhythm, joie de vivre and the cult of sacrifice; Colorful, fascinating, noisy, unique. Whether diving in the Caribbean, climbing pyramids, shuddering at the human sacrifices of the Aztecs, marveling at the skills of the Mayans, every tourist finds something in the land of the indigenous natives and Spanish conquistadors. Everyone will find their place and will be able to enjoy themselves in the mirror of contrasts.

Travel tips and regions in Mexico

Mexico, El Ángel de la Independencia
The El Ángel de la Independencia in Mexico City, Image: Vincent St. Thomas / shutterstock

From Frankfurt Airport directly to Mexico City. Time change: -7 hours. Best in the winter months, because in the rainy season from May to October it is an experience for advanced surfers. In August, many American vacationers are to be expected. Alcohol consumption in public is prohibited, some caution is advised, even if people drink on the tourist beaches. The drug laws are also harsh. A valid passport is required, but not a visa. At the border, there is a tourist card (FMM) that is valid for up to 180 days. It does no harm to take note of the information provided by the Federal Foreign Office on the current situation in Mexico and any risks.

Landscapes range from the bright blue coast of Baja California and the legendary cactus deserts of the north to the Mayan villages and palm-lined beaches of the south. Richly decorated colonial churches await visitors everywhere and a sophisticated, varied cuisine tempts visitors with numerous chili varieties and dishes made from the most important basis corn. Would you like a tequila made from fermented agave juice or a fermented juice of the same fruit, called pulque, with a low alcohol content, mixed with melons or dragon fruit? A Mexico vacation has a lot to offer.

Mexico City

Mexico, Baja
The Baja in Mexico, Image: Grey82 / shutterstock

Welcome to one of the largest cities in the world. The main square Zócalo is the second largest in the world, bordered by the Cathedral and the National Palace. In the middle flies a gigantic red-white-green flag, the banner of Mexico with the eagle devouring a snake. The church is the largest in Latin America and was built from 1573 to 1813. Masses take place there incessantly during the day, there is a coming and going in the richly decorated, magnificent church.

In the Palacio National , luminous murals gloss over the pre-Christian life of the indigenous peoples, and in the stairwell, the Marxist worldview is transfigured in dazzling paintings. Contrasts here too. A walk through the old town offers relaxation and diverse impressions. East and south of the square there is a lively market hustle and bustle. The Museo Nacional de Antropologia in the Bosque de Chapultepec park is another highlight in Mexico City.

Mary of Guadalupe and Teotihuacán

Located at an altitude of 2200 m, surrounded by mountain ranges and the twin volcanoes, the surroundings of the capital tempt you to go on excursions. First, a short history.

In 1521, the Spaniard Cortes had conquered the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan and abolished the cruel human sacrifices. The inhabitants of the city were to become Christians. But only a few adopted the religion of the greedy conquerors.

House of Life

It was not until 1531, when the image of Mary of Guadalupe appeared on the cloak of a simple Indian and a church was built in her honor, that millions of Indians were converted in a few years. They recognized the dark-skinned woman as one of their own and accepted her as ruler. Just like the child she is carrying as a pregnant woman. Mexico became Catholic, Our Lady of Guadalupe became the patron saint of the country, and the sanctuary north of Mexico City became the largest pilgrimage site in the world. 20 million come every year. The fusion of very different cultures had begun.

Street of the Dead

Mexico Beach
Mexico has great beaches to offer, Image: Jess Kraft / shutterstock

The bus continues to Teotihuacan, where the third largest pyramid in the world rises 65 m high in the center of the ruins. The Pyramid of the Sun, built about 100 years AD. At the northern end of the Street of the Dead lies the Pyramid of the Moon, the little sister. A breathtaking scenery in this place, whose name means: ‘Where men become gods’.

Pacific Ocean

Bright blue, warm sand, glaring light in
Acapulco
 and the famous cliff divers who plunge headlong from the rocks from a height of 26 m into the gently rolling waves of the Pacific. The extensive sandy beach, the magnificent villas of high society on the hills, the variety of hotels and water sports facilities, the nightlife and the cloudless days attract the tourist. Acapulco is especially beautiful when the bay begins to shine with thousands of lights after sunset. If you stick to a reputable hotel and follow a few basic rules, you can spend nice holidays there despite political turmoil and the drug mafia.

It is quieter 200 km further north in the fishing village of Zihuatanejo. Small beach promenade, family fish restaurants, excursion boats to bird sanctuary islands or Playa las Gatas. Swimming, diving, lazing around is the order of the day.

South of Acapulco, there are also beautiful seaside resorts with quiet bays like around Puerto Angelo or with majestic swells like in Puerto Escondido, which is an El Dorado for surfers.

Where relaxation and culture can be found: Riviera Maya

Idyllic, dreamlike, bright white, palm-fringed, with crystal clear water are the Caribbean beaches of the
Yucatán
 region. At Cancún International Airport, a fascinating Mexico tour can begin with a focus on water, scrub forest and Mayan temples. Cancún is a test-tube city with a gorgeous beach, hotels, shopping, and diverse nightlife. Things are quieter on the small Isla Mujeres, the Fraueninsel. A diver’s paradise is the Isla de Cozumel. The coast to
Tulum
 is called Riviera Maya and scores with turquoise shimmering sea, white, wide beaches and palm bays. At Tulum, there are Mayan ruins right on the sapphire blue sea. A worthwhile detour from there leads to Cobá. Good hotels offer excursions. This ruined city is still located in the bush forest, which is also a nature reserve and is home to a variety of fantastic bird species. It is touristy, but not overcrowded and more atmospheric than the meticulously uncovered temple towns such as the famous Chichén Itzá, 70 km further inland. This has been declared one of the new 7 wonders of the world and the visitor should not be surprised if he sees only the tips of the sophisticated Mayan buildings in front of all the tourists.

Mexico Holiday Packages

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe
The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Image: WitR / shutterstock

Mexico is 6 times larger than Germany. Wanting to experience it on your own, for example in a rental car, is certainly an adventure and not without danger. A package tour takes you to the most beautiful places, introduces you to reliable travel guides, saves lengthy journeys in crowded buses, picks you up from the airport and brings you back there safely. The right one for beginners. There is so much to discover:

  • The Pueblos Magicos, colorful villages and small towns with their colonial churches, social life, museums, festivals, markets and street stalls.
  • The Pink Lagoon has become an insider tip with its fine white sand and pink-shining water.
  • Bathing in freshwater holes
  • Diving with turtles and encounters with gray whales
  • Music and dancing and eating, eating, eating

Conclusion: A Mexico vacation is always worthwhile.

Seattle: The pearl on the Pacific

PatrickJullien
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0
Seattle: The pearl on the Pacific

Seattle is one of the most charming cities in the USA. Located high in the north on the border with Canada, it convinces with maritime charm. With over 700,000 inhabitants, it is the cultural, economic and scientific centre of the metropolitan region around the city. However, a vacation in Seattle is still worthwhile for those who are looking for the perfect symbiosis of urbanity and nature. The city is not called “The Emerald City” for nothing, alluding to the many green spaces within the city area. In Seattle, there is a lot to discover and experience in addition to breathtaking nature. The hometown of rock stars Jimi Hendrix and Kurt Cobain attracts visitors with numerous highlights.

Maritime city

Washington State Ferry
A Washington State Ferry cruise ship in front of the Olympic Mountains on its way to Seattle. Image: Moarly / shutterstock

Seattle is picturesquely located in the northwest of the US state of Washington. As is often assumed, however, the city is not its capital (the seat of government is in Olympia). The city is located on an isthmus between Puget Sound and Lake Washington. This creates the special maritime atmosphere. Puget Sound is an inlet that separates Seattle from the Pacific Ocean. Lake Washington, located on the other side, is the second largest natural lake in the state. All friends of the mountains will also find their beloved terrain in the Seattle region. Behind the skyline of the city, the Olympic Mountains can be admired. The highest mountain in Washington is also in the immediate vicinity. Mount Rainer is only about 90 kilometers away from downtown.

A widespread myth about Seattle is that it always rains in the metropolis. However, this belongs to the realm of legends. The average amount of rain lags behind other major cities in the United States. However, due to the influence of the Pacific, the weather is rather cloudy on many days.

Modern city with traditional roots

But this should not be an obstacle to discovering the wonderful city. Seattle, like many other cities on the west coast of the USA, was created in the course of the “Great Trains” of the pioneers in the 19th century. Thus, after the first small settlements, the city was officially founded in 1869. It quickly experienced a boom through the wood industry.

The connection of wooded land and good infrastructure through the port allowed the business to flourish. This prosperity is also recognizable in the cityscape. As early as 1914, the Smith Tower, the tallest building west of the Mississippi , was inaugurated. The high-rise measures 159 meters. This probably laid the foundation for something for which Seattle is known all over the world today: skyscrapers.

The city’s skyline is largely shaped by its most famous landmark: the Space Needle. The 184-metre-high tower was opened on the occasion of the 1962 World’s Fair. From its top, you can experience the entire city from a breathtaking perspective. There is also a restaurant there, which makes for what is probably the most extraordinary dinner in the city.

Sightseeing

Seattle, Amazon Spheres
The Amazon Spheres, Image: Rocky Grimes / shutterstock

In addition to these attractions, Seattle has a lot more to offer. The Seattle Center Monorail is a suitable means of transport to admire all kinds of highlights comfortably. The monorail was also built for the 1962 World’s Fair and connects the city centre with the World Expo site. There are many architectural and cultural sights on it.

For example, the Space Needle or the KeyArena, which is a multi-purpose hall that mainly functions as the home of the city’s basketball teams. Sport is very important in the metropolis in general. Seattle is represented by professional teams in almost all major US sports. In Major League Baseball, the Seattle Mariners compete. The Seattle Seahawks football team is particularly well-known. They play their home games at the extraordinary Century Link Field. In 2013, the team even won the legendary Superbowl.

Seattle – Home of Grunge

Music enthusiasts are particularly familiar with Seattle because of the rock stars who come from the city. The legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix was born here. To this day, he is considered one of the most influential rock musicians of all time. The band Nirvana, founded in the city, became just such icons. The formation around its frontman Kurt Cobain achieved world fame in the 1990s with their rock music known as “grunge”. Hits like “Smells like Teen Spirit” are still played over and over on the radios today. Unfortunately, the band’s story also came to a tragic end in Seattle. On April 5, 1994, Cobain took his own life at his home on Lake Washington.

However, the great importance of music did not end in the city on Puget Sound. Even today, the wide-ranging club scene is a Mecca for all those who like to party. The city’s nightlife is legendary. But also all those who are interested in high cultural music experiences will find something unique in Seattle. The Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Seattle Opera and Pacific Northwest Ballet are among the most extraordinary experts in their field and offer cultural experiences in a class of their own.

High culture and culinary delights

In addition to the great importance of music, the city also has numerous first-class museums. The Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, which has an excellent collection of Native American art, is dedicated to the eventful history of the city, the surrounding area and its Native American people. Seattle is also known all over the world for the aircraft built here. The Museum of Flight does justice to this and impressively traces the history of aviation. For example, it houses the original production plant of the Seattle-based company Boeing.

CenturyLink Field
View of CenturyLink Field, home of the Seattle Seattle Seahawks, Image: Cascade Creatives / shutterstock

Due to its location on the Pacific Ocean, Seattle has always been a city of fishing and trade. This can be experienced especially in the beautiful market hall at the harbour. Pike Place Market on the Waterfront is the oldest continuously open market in the United States of America. It opened its doors for the first time in 1907. Visitors can pursue culinary experiences to their heart’s content and watch the hustle and bustle of the traders. Fish specialties of all kinds have found their home here and delight every palate.

Seattle – Livable City

All these diverse aspects make Seattle a big city with maritime charm. It is not for nothing that the “Emerald City” has been voted the most livable city in the entire USA several times. This is probably also due to the fact that Seattle is home to many well-known TV series such as Dark Angel, Grey’s Anatomy, Frasier or iCarly. Experiencing the home of these hit series for yourself is highly recommended. Seattle is a true pearl in the northwest of the USA.

Le Jardin du Roi

PatrickJullien
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Le Jardin du Roi

The Seychelles offers much more than just sun, beach and diving. If you spend your holiday on the main island of Mahe , you should take a few hours and visit the well-known and lovingly created spice garden Jardin du Roi.

How to get to Jardin du Roi

Opening hours Jardin du Roi Monday-Sunday: 10.00 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. Phone: +248 4 371 313 Admission: approx. 11 euros
Coming from the capital Victoria , drive to Anse Royale. In Anse Royale, after the petrol station, turn right into Les Canelles Road. After less than a kilometre, turn left onto Sweet Escott Road. Then follow the signs to the Jardin du Roi.

As early as the 18th century, the first large spice plantation in the Seychelles existed in Anse Royale. Due to the rare seeds and plants, it provided a good source of income for the archipelago. In 1780, however, the complex was destroyed by a major fire.

Saffron, Jardin du Roi
Saffron plant in the Jardin du Roi, Picture Patrick Jullien / Travel Magazine Online

The French Lieutenant de Romainville had orders to burn down the spice plantations as soon as English soldiers set foot on the island. They did not want to let the precious plant world fall into the hands of the enemies. However, it quickly turned out that the soldiers arriving by ship were French soldiers and not enemy soldiers.

The rare seeds were also lost in this fire. Today, the Jardin du Roi is once again home to the rarest plant species: nutmeg, bananas, vanilla, cinnamon trees and much more.

It’s just fun to stroll through the 25-hectare site and get to know exotic plant species thanks to the signposting.

In the farm shop, visitors can purchase handmade souvenirs and spices. In the small but fine museum, farm life in the Seychelles is reconstructed.

The five most beautiful sights in Paris

PatrickJullien
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The five most beautiful sights in Paris

Over the centuries, long before the Internet or travel guides existed, Paris has earned a reputation as the most beautiful city in the world. No wonder: Divided only by the Seine, the French capital offers everything lovers of art, gastronomy, architecture and culture could wish for. Even today, it is considered a center for lovers, for people from all over the world and, due to its diversity, a symbol of the former French power in the world. Among the many possibilities that you have in Paris, the capital of France , it is difficult to say which of the sights you should definitely have seen. They all offer their own form of beauty. However, some of them are an absolute must if you decide to visit the city.

Louvre

Attraction Paris, Louvre
The Louvre, Image: Marina Vieira Branquinho / shutterstock

When it comes to pure beauty, at least the construction of the Louvre should not really play a role. Access via the controversial glass pyramid is still considered a point of contention for the Parisian population today. But once you have fought your way through the queues, you will truly come to one of the most beautiful places in the world. Not only the Mona Lisa can be found here.

The Louvre houses art from different eras, from peoples and masters all over the world. Friends of art in particular will get their money’s worth once they are in the museum itself. You should take your time and let the pictures work their magic on you.

Of course, it is always a question of one’s own taste when art is really beautiful. But there is probably no better place in the world to develop a taste.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Sight Paris, Notre Dame
Notre Dame Cathedral, Image: Catarina Belova / shutterstock

The cathedral of Notre-Dame took over 200 years to build and was considered the real landmark of the city long before the Eiffel Tower was even planned. Its towers towered over Paris before Versailles was just an idea, and the cathedral will probably still be around hundreds of years from now.

It is not only the architecture behind the church itself that is particularly beautiful. The interior should also be looked at in any case. The beautiful stained glass windows are only one part of why the church is considered one of the most beautiful buildings of Gothic architecture. It was no wonder that Napoleon was enthroned as emperor here. You can also walk in his footsteps on a walk through history.

Sacré Coeur Basilica

Attractions Paris, Sacre Coeur
Sacré-Cœur, Image: bogitw / pixabay

Not quite as well-known as the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame is the Sacré Coeur Basilica. It was built in the late 19th century in the Byzantine style and its peculiarity is mainly the stones. The church is able to cleanse itself completely without human influence from the dirt of the big city.

Due to its exposed location on a hill in the north of the city, it shines with its white stones at all times and attracts visitors from all over the world to its special architecture. Here, too, the magic can only really be understood if you dare to take a look inside the church itself. When visiting Paris, the church should definitely be visited, as just a look and a grip on the special stone can be worth the visit.

Versailles

Versailles
Versailles, Image: charlemagne / pixabay

Not quite in Paris, but close enough in the vicinity of the city is the fairytale castle that Louis the Sun King once had built for himself. The plans of the maker were never completely completed during his lifetime, but even today it is possible to guess what was to be built here.

It didn’t hurt the castle either – after all, it was expanded by later generations and was considered the centre of aristocratic France before the revolution for many years. Not only the castle itself is of impressive beauty: If you have the time, you should take a look at the wonderful gardens, which alone justify a trip.

The Catacombs of Paris

Again, it may not be the classic beauty that attracts visitors to the capital’s catacombs. It is the morbid attraction of experiencing the remnants of the many hundreds of years of active history of Paris.

A parallel world has developed under the streets of the city and even under the metro. Diseases, war and historical upheavals have led to a unique system of tunnels. Of particularly creepy beauty are the long rows of bones of the former plague victims, which still dominate the image of the catacombs and the stories of the visitors today.

 

Other places to visit in Paris

The five most beautiful sights in Rome

PatrickJullien
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The five most beautiful sights in Rome

Once you start listing the many sights of Rome , you quickly get lost. This is no wonder, after all, Rome is still considered the eternal city today. The center of the former European empire, which traveled from Africa to the deepest steppes of Asia. Although Rome lost more and less importance over the centuries, many of the testimonies of the historical period can still be found today. Rome entices with the Italian joie de vivre surrounded by ancient products and a wonderful culture. Which sights of the eternal city should you definitely have seen? What are the most beautiful places in the city where you can hardly walk ten meters without admiring a historic building?

St. Peter’s Basilica

Rome, St. Peter's Basilica
View of St. Peter’s Basilica, Image: cge2010 / shutterstock

Actually, the Vatican State is not part of Rome at all, but it should be planned for a visit to the city in any case. It can be well worth taking a whole day to explore the wonder of the Papal States in the heart of Rome with St. Peter’s Basilica. It is perhaps one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. The tours offered here take you into the inner workings of the holy city. With the right tour guide, you can discover many more of the treasures that have been collected over the course of almost 2000 years and make up the unique magic of this place.

The Pantheon

Rome, Pantheon
The Pantheon, Image: Phant / shutterstock

As one of the best-preserved structures in the city’s ancient history, the Pantheon actually takes the visitor back to the time when Rome was the center of the civilized world. Apart from the impressive history that the building has just passed in Rome, it is also architecturally of a special beauty. The Friday domed building was revolutionary for the time and has posed many a mystery to researchers even in modern times. The interior seems a little bare at first glance, but holds its own secrets and treasures, which are explained and can be discovered by visitors in a tour.

The Roman Forum

Rome, Roman Forum
The Roman Forum, Image: xlizziexx / Pixabay

Even in the time of the Caesars, the Roman Forum was the social center of the city. Parties, tournaments, notices and discussions took place here. Not much has changed since the times of Caesar, Marcus Aurelius and Nero. Since the Romanum has been largely excavated, the historic center has shifted back here. In addition to the countless tourists, it is also the locals who take the opportunity to advertise their goods here or simply come together. People discover the true and vibrant Rome here, while at the same time providing an impressive look at the city’s former history. Similar to the Spanish Steps, however, it should always be taken into account that many people want to see this place.

Colosseum

Rome, Colosseum
The Colosseum, Image: Andrea Izzotti / shutterstock

Admittedly, the beauty of the former arena for gladiators and spectacle is not always apparent at first glance. If you didn’t know any better, you would suspect that this is just another ruin of Rome, of which there are now really enough in the city. But the opportunity to walk through the historic tunnels and have it explained to you how the many – for those times – modern techniques worked, gives a good insight into how far the Romans had already come back then. The spectacle can be felt here as well as the story. An insider tip: Visit the Colosseum at night. Not only are there exclusive events around the Colosseum, but the beauty of the building becomes even more evident in the evening sun or when lit up at night.

Fonte di Trevi

Rome, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Trevi
The Trevi Fountain in Piazza Trevi, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock

The Trevi Fountain should be familiar to most people from film and television. Not only is it a cultural center of the city and perhaps the place where most people can be found over the course of an entire day, but it’s also fraught with a superstition or two. It is said to bring good luck to throw coins into the fountain in the right way. Above all, however, it is a beauty that is located right in the center of the city. So if you are on your way to explore the evening life in the city anyway, you should definitely make the little detour. The wonderful sculptures and the spectacle of light and water make the Fonte di Trevi one of the most beautiful fountains in the world for a reason.

Mysterious Borneo

PatrickJullien
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Mysterious Borneo

A trip to Borneo is the realization of an absolute vacation dream for every nature lover with a little thirst for adventure. Dense, tropical rainforests, colorful plants and rare animal species such as orangutans, macaques, proboscis monkeys and Irawadi dolphins await travelers.

Borneo – Geographical location and climate

Borneo is more than twice the size of Germany and is located in the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by the South China Sea, the Java Sea and the Strait of Makassar, it is the third largest island in the world and covers a length of about 1366 km and a width of 1026 km.

Geographically, it belongs to the large Sunda Islands and is politically divided into three states: Indonesia in the south and Malaysia with the Sultanate of Brunei in the north. A mountain range, in which the highest elevation in Borneo is located, the 4095 m high Kinabalu, stretches from the northeast to the southwest.

Borneo is crossed by the equator approximately in the middle and thus belongs to the tropical climate zone with high humidity and relatively constant temperatures between an average of 27.7° C in May and 26.7° C in December. The rainiest months are March and October. However, since it rains frequently during the rest of the year, there is no so-called “best time to travel”. Borneo is a year-round destination and precipitation is part of a stay here.

The National Parks

Those who travel to Borneo usually want to get as big an impression as possible of the indescribable flora and fauna of the region. There are numerous national parks on the island, which correspond to the idea of untouched nature with exotic animals, colorful birds and flowering orchids to a great extent.

Bako National Park

The city of Kuching in the state of Sarawak is a very good starting point for trips to several of the region’s fantastic national parks. The Bako National Park is only about 40 km away. However, the trip to this peninsula is only possible by boat. It is recommended to stay there for at least two days in order to hike through the pure rainforest wilderness on different routes. A night safari with a good guide is a unique experience. There are some simple lodges in the park for overnight stays, but they should be reserved in good time.

Semenggoh National Park
Orangutans in Semenggoh National Park khamkhor / Pixabay

National park

Semenggoh National Park is also easily accessible from Kuching. One of the attractions here is the orangutan rehabilitation station, where animals found injured and freed from captivity are prepared for their life in the wild. For the once-daily feeding, they come close to the visitor center and can thus be observed up close.

Gungung Mulu National Park

The Gungung Mulu National Park should not be missing on any excursion program of a Borneo vacation. The most impressive sights here are the gigantic caves of a huge, partly unexplored system.

Deer Cave

One of the most beautiful caves open to visitors is the “Deer Cave”. Here, with the help of a local guide, you can spot millions of bats. If you choose the “Clearwater Cave”, which is believed to be more than 60 km long, you can refresh yourself before or after the tour in the natural swimming pool with crystal clear water, which is located in front of the entrance to the cave.

The Gungung Mulu National Park offers such a variety of natural wonders that tourists should definitely take part in a multi-day trekking tour. So you can experience the fascinating rainforest with all its images, sounds and smells “around the clock”. One of the most popular activities is climbing the pointed limestone cliffs, the so-called Pinnacles. However, you should already have a good level of fitness to master this challenge without any problems.

Kinabalu, Borneo
Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Malaysia, Image: KBaucherel / Pixabay

If you decide to climb the 4095 m high Kinabalus, you should plan 2 to 3 days, depending on your physical condition. This activity is particularly worthwhile for plant, bird and butterfly lovers to experience the flora and fauna of the mountains in this region up close. If you are lucky, you will get to see the largest flower in the world here – the Rafflesia.

Since the weather on Kinabalu is often unpredictable, hikers should inform themselves well in advance about the prevailing conditions. On a clear day, a fantastic view from above compensates for the efforts of the ascent. You can also get a spectacular impression of the rainforest on the Conopy Skywalk. Here you walk at a height of 41 m over swaying suspension bridges through the treetops of the national park.

The Danum Valley

This very remote area in the state of Sabah is one of the few areas in Borneo where the primeval, dense forest still prevails. This is also where the last specimens of the extremely rare Borneo pygmy elephants and Borneo rhinos are hidden. The probability of seeing the shy animals is very low, but since the valley is also one of the regions with a very high plant and animal diversity, it is of great interest to zoologists and botanists.

In the Crocker Range Mountains in the north of Sabah, the legendary cloud forests are located at an altitude of 2000 m. In certain weather conditions, when clouds cover the mountain peaks, the observer is presented with a fairytale sight. In these extremely humid conditions, the legendary carnivorous pitcher plants also thrive very well.

Connecting stays in Borneo

Many travellers relax after the eventful but also strenuous tours through the national parks on one of Borneo’s magnificent dream coasts.

On the islands off Kota Kinabalu, wonderful sandy beaches await the beach vacationers. The 50-hectare Tunuk Abdul Rahman Marine Park and Sipadan Island are among the best diving areas on earth with their fascinating and diverse underwater world.

If you feel like going to a real city again after several weeks in untouched nature, you can visit the lively port town of Sandakan, for example. Here, it’s worth taking a leisurely shopping spree at the colourful markets or stopping off at local or western restaurants. Not far from the city, in Sepilok, are the last almost untouched primary rainforests in northern Borneo.

Less strenuous than a trekking tour, but at least as interesting is a river safari. For example, the Kinabatangan River, which is over 600 km long, offers boat trips with local guides that offer a completely different perspective on the tropical landscape.

Food and Drink in Borneo

The cuisine in Borneo is influenced by numerous different countries and cultures and is therefore extremely diverse. Freshly caught fish in many variations is on the menu in most restaurants here. Another speciality are the small satay meat skewers, which are served with sweet-spicy peanut sauce.

THE national dish in Indonesia“>Indonesia and Malaysia is, of course, nasi goreng (fried rice). Rice in combination with vegetables and meat is eaten by the locals at any time of the day, even for breakfast, and is available everywhere.

A vegetarian dish is roti canai, which consists of a flat flatbread with several different curry sauces. When it comes to the ubiquitous curry dishes, Europeans should rather try the milder variants first, because the spicy versions are almost impossible to enjoy even for people who like to eat well-seasoned dishes.

For nature lovers and adventurous travelers, there is hardly a more interesting and diverse destination in Asia than Borneo. Untouched nature, friendly locals and exciting activities await them.

The five most beautiful sights in Reykjavik

PatrickJullien
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The five most beautiful sights in Reykjavik

The island of Iceland has only developed into a real hotspot for tourists in recent years. It received special attention at the beginning of the new millennium. This is also due to the fact that the island offers a real change from the cities on the mainland flooded with tourists. Iceland can be explored in a few days and yet offers the adventure of discovering untamed nature with the comfort of a modern European city. All tourists who visit the island first land in Reykjavik. Since this is the highest density of hotels and there are only a few tourist offers outside the capital, you should first take a look at the sights of the Icelandic capital before the trip to the geysers and volcanoes.

1. Hallgrimskirkja – Hallgrim Church

Hallgrímskirkja,
Hallgrímskirkja Church, Image: Ghing / shutterstock

Hardly any other building has caused as much discussion in Reykjavik as the construction of this special church, which began in 1940. Hallgrimskirkja is a masterpiece of modern architecture and characterises the cityscape as perhaps the most important landmark in the entire country. It is a mixture of modern architecture with the traditional architecture of the churches in the north and is available to visitors all year round. If you want to enjoy a unique view over the capital, you should invest around 5 euros for a ticket up to the observation tower. The elevator takes you to a 70-meter-high gallery, which allows a view over the entire coastal city. From here, the special architecture of the capital of Iceland becomes clear once again.

2. Reykjavik Harbor with Harpa Concert Hall

Rejkjavik, Harpa
The Harpa Concert Hall, Image: SahatchaiS / shutterstock

You have to get used to the fact that Reykjavik is mainly defined by modern architecture. For a long time, the Icelandic island was in a self-imposed isolation. Apart from fishing, there was little reason for the inhabitants to make contact with other countries in Europe. This only changed in the late 20th century, when service providers also came to the island. The wonderful harbour is still the highlight of a visit today. In combination with the modern Harpa concert hall, there are plenty of opportunities for a great day out and an excursion on the island.

3. The Laugavegur

Reykjavik, Laugavegur
The Laugavegur district, Image: Nella / shutterstock

Even though Reykjavik doesn’t really have an old town to offer, the capital knows how to convince with other special districts. Laugavegur is something like the heart of the city. This is where most of the shops and restaurants can be found, and tourists and locals can be found in the shops and cafes all year round. In addition, the shopping street offers a great view of the church tower, which can always be seen on the horizon. When darkness comes – and it sometimes does very early in Iceland – the shops pack up and instead an active and popular nightlife develops in the capital. This is probably the best way to get in touch with the locals. By the way, many of them speak excellent English – so there should be no language barrier for experienced tourists.

4. The Blue Lagoon

Iceland, Bláa Lónið, The Blue Lagoon near Reykjavik
Bláa Lónið, The Blue Lagoon, Image: Puripat Lertpunyaroj / shutterstcok

In a neighboring town of Reykjavik you will find what the island has been famous for many tourists for many years: a completely natural thermal bath. The hot springs are something like the trademark of the island. Powered by the volcanic energy that can be found everywhere, the hot springs are a very popular place for locals and tourists alike to relax and meet new people. Most of these baths have very strict guidelines and especially for newcomers to sauna culture, some of the traditions could cause a bit of confusion. However, the local lifeguards are happy to explain the procedure and point out how to behave or what to consider during a visit so that it becomes a relaxation for everyone involved.

5. The Art Museums of Reykjavik

Reykjavík
A picturesque and impressive sight of Iceland’s capital, Image: KeongDaGreat / shutterstock

For the small capital of a small island, Reykjavik has a variety of interesting museums to offer. It seems that the focus here was mainly on modern art. In the different parts of the city, you will not only find interesting offers for every art movement, but also current exhibitions by artists from all over the world. If you are interested in the world of museums, you will also find an opportunity to learn a little more about the life of Icelanders in earlier times in the local history museums along the harbor. The modern buildings are not only visually splendourful, they also offer great entertainment and are a popular destination for tourists who come to the island.

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Luxembourg – A small country in a big way

PatrickJullien
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Luxembourg – A small country in a big way

Grand Duchy with many tasks and special features

With an area of only 2,586 km², Luxembourg is a small country in this respect. Nevertheless, it has great and diverse things to offer:

  • The Grand Duke is multicultural, with almost 50 percent of the approximately 600,000 inhabitants being foreigners. Three languages are spoken: Luxembourgish (Letzebuergisch) as the national language and German, French and Luxembourgish as the official language.
  • Luxembourg has three direct neighbours: Germany, France and Belgium. Together with its neighbour Belgium and the Netherlands, it forms the Benelux countries.
  • It is a member of NATO, the UN, as well as the EU, the European Union. The capital of the same name is the venue for the Council of the EU
  • Luxembourg is a founding member of the European Economic Community (EEC)
  • Luxembourg City is home to several important European institutions: the administrative headquarters of the EU, the seat of the European Court of Auditors, the European Court of Justice and the European Investment Bank.
  • The international agreement for the abolition of stationary border controls in the area of the participating states, the so-called “Schengen Agreement”, was signed in the town of Schengen.

Cultural heritage, traditions and natural beauties

Luxembourg, Philharmonie
The Philharmonie Luxembourg, Image: Reinhard Tiburzy / shutterstock

Our neighbouring country of Luxembourg is full of sights. Numerous historical places, museums, castles, ruins or monuments bear witness to a rich past, tradition and beauty. It is not for nothing that UNESCO has elevated many places to World Heritage status. The capital itself is particularly worth seeing.

The landscape of Luxembourg is very varied. In particular, there are the rather rugged Luxembourg Ardennes, the famous Mullerthal with its bizarre rock formations or the vineyards in the Moselle Valley.

Industry, agriculture and trade played a major role in the country’s past. Numerous industrial museums still tell of it today. These include the Slate Mining Museum in Haut-Martelange or the Industrial and Railway Park in Differdange/Pétange.

Last but not least, there are numerous traditional and interesting festivals that attract numerous visitors from all over the world in various towns every year. An example would be the jumping procession in Echternach.

Luxembourg City, a capital with charm

Luxembourg, Rue du Marche-aux-Herbes
The Rue du Marche-aux-Herbes, Image: nito / shutterstock

One of the most important sights of the Grand Duchy is without question the capital. It has twice received the “European Capital of Culture” award and the old town has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Luxembourg City is culturally and historically an unmistakably impressive city where multicultural life pulsates.

A stunning location

Luxembourg is a city with many faces: on the one hand, gigantic, modern buildings and luxurious shops dominate, and on the other hand, the well-preserved remains of the medieval fortifications are enthroned high above as the city’s landmark. Deep gorges are formed by the rivers Alzette and Pétrusse, which seem to encircle the city. An extremely beautiful panorama of this can be obtained from the view from the ramparts down into the valley.

Dive into the underworld

Luxembourg
Image: S-F / shutterstock

If you are in the Luxembourg capital, you can’t help but marvel at the fortress known as the “Gibraltar of the North”. You should definitely venture into the “underworld” there. A visit to the gigantic casemates is a must for every visitor. In the Bock casemates, which were used for defence from the 17th century onwards, the visitor enters the caves and passages carved into the rock and experiences a journey through time par excellence. A prison, a dungeon and the city’s birthplace, the archaeological crypt, as well as some fantastic views “outside” offer a breathtaking experience for the whole family.

If you want to soak up a lot of city history, you can entrust yourself to the approximately 5.5 km long “Wenceslas Trail”, a circular route that has casemates, defensive walls and citadels as cornerstones.

Detour into a fairytale world

The Mullerthal, also known as “Luxembourg’s Little Switzerland”, is a breathtaking landscape that you can expect to encounter elves and gnomes at any time when you cross it. Almost like in a fairytale forest…

Luxembourg, Mullerthal
The Mullerthal, Image: Sabino Parente / shutterstock

But what is special about the Mullerthal? Quite simply: it is an ideal hiking area with gigantic rock formations that leave a lot of room for the imagination, with romantic streams, beautiful small villages with castle ruins such as Larochette or Beaufort, impressive panoramas of the valley of the Sûre and, of course, the landmark of the region, the Schiessentümpel, where water forms a fairytale situation.

Hiking is not only the miller’s delight…

In the Mullerthal, several longer and shorter hiking trails are well signposted. The most famous is the Mullerthal Trail, a hiking route of 112 km consisting of three routes. The tours can also be done independently of each other and, of course, expanded. The starting point of the hike can also be chosen individually. A large red M is pointing the way.
No matter where and how, you will definitely go to some spectacular natural sites such as the Schiessentümpel or the Wolfsschlucht. Truly gigantic rock formations await hikers at almost every corner. But also the castle of Beaufort and Echternach with its lake and excavation site are on the list of the Mullerthal Trail. Once again an experience for the whole family!

Luxembourg – You have to see it!

Luxembourg, European Court of Justice
The European Court of Justice, Image: nitpicker / shutterstock

In principle, the whole of Luxembourg is worth a trip, some destinations have already been mentioned. However, there are certain places that are simply a must. They either originate from the past or are recommended due to special natural beauties or events.

Castles in Luxembourg

Approximately in the middle of Luxembourg is the “Valley of the Seven Castles” – the Eisch Valley – with the 37 km long hiking trail of the same name, which leads past all seven castles and palaces in the region. The cornerstones of the hike are the Fockeschlass in Koerich and the castle in Mersch.
Directly on the border with Germany is the village of Vianden with the almost 1,000-year-old castle with manor house. This is said to have been built on the foundations of a Roman fort and a Carolingian refuge. After the restoration, both can now be visited

Villages

Luxembourg, Monument of Grand-Duchess Charlotte
Monument of Grand-Duchess Charlotte, Image: Valentin Ivantsov / shutterstock

Vianden or Veinen, located in the Ardennes and on the Our, has not only the castle but also the Sodality Chapel and the Trinitarian Church as sights to offer.

Clervaux, also known by its French name Clervaux, is located in the heart of Luxembourg’s Ardennes and, despite its small size, is a “great” place. Clervaux, for example, has a castle that houses three interesting visitor magnets: the War Museum, which provides information about the Battle of the Bulge, an exhibition with models of the country’s castles and palaces, as well as the famous UNESCO Memory of the World Heritage, the photo exhibition “The Family of Man” by Edward Steichen, which gave the city the nickname “City of Images”.

In the border triangle of Germany, France and Luxembourg, the small but famous wine-growing village of Schengen on the Moselle can be found. Here, in 1985, the famous Schengen Agreement was signed on the “MS Princesse Marie-Astrid”, which set the milestone for the abolition of controls at the European borders of some countries. Interesting information can be found today in the “Europe Direct” and especially in the “Musée Européen Schengen”. In addition to the historic ship, the remains of a moated castle from the early Middle Ages, a church and a castle as well as the baroque castle garden are the historical sights of the city.

Luxembourg, Vianden Castle
Vianden Castle, Image: Sergey Novikov / shutterstock

Echternach an der Sauer is the oldest city in Luxembourg and a stone’s throw from Germany. The market square, towers and remains of the former city wall and the narrow, winding streets still bear witness to medieval charm today. Also worth mentioning are the “Denzëlt”, the former court of justice, the Peter and Paul church with its frescoes and the Romanesque basilica, whose crypt houses the tomb of Saint Willibrord. On the outskirts of the city is a leisure centre with a lake and the “Roman Villa”. Here the visitor will find excavations from the 1st to 5th centuries, an exhibition about the life of the “ancient” Romans and much more.
Once a small settlement of boatmen and fishermen, Remich on the Moselle has become a respected wine village to this day. The city’s landmark is the Bacchus Fountain. Surrounded by vineyards and forest, the Battle of Remich against the Vikings took place here in 882. Today it is much more peaceful, today only the tourists storm the place.

Other places worth mentioning are Ettelbruck, where beer is said to flow from a donkey fountain at certain times, and Diekirch with the National Museum of Military History and a Bee and Beer Museum. In the former mining town of Rumelange, you can now learn interesting facts about this industry in the mining museum and drive into the tunnels like the miners once did. Esch-sur-Sûre is particularly impressive. The remains of an old fortress are enthroned on a steeply sloping rockslide. The town itself is almost completely engulfed by the Sûre. In the immediate vicinity is the Sauer dam with lake and leisure facilities.

Luxembourg – festivals, celebrations & traditions

Luxembourg Christmas Market
The Christmas market in Luxembourg, Image: FamVeld / shutterstock

Probably the best-known and most spectacular traditional festival is the Echternach Hopping Procession, which takes place on the Tuesday after Pentecost. That’s when the participants jump from the former abbey to the basilica in the archipelago. The purpose is to honour Saint Willibrord, who set off from here to work as a missionary in northern Germany. The procession is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts numerous people from all over the world every year.

Not quite as spectacular, but also worth seeing are the annual medieval festival in Vianden and the nut market in October.

The carnival customs of various municipalities in Luxembourg are also interesting. For example, the carnival parade in Diekirch is one of the most worth seeing. In Remich, the carnival season ends by burning a straw doll on the Moselle bridge on Ash Wednesday. The flames are supposed to drive away the evil winter spirits.

In Wiltz, the Gënzefest, the Broom Festival, is accompanied by a colourful flower parade at Pentecost.

A thousand and one blossoms – Lake Constance, paradise at the foot of the Alps

PatrickJullien
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A thousand and one blossoms – Lake Constance, paradise at the foot of the Alps

Sometimes idyllically enraptured; sometimes wine-blessed, cheerful – the enchanting landscape on Lake Constance presents itself as diverse and multifaceted. Churches, castles, medieval towns, sun-drenched vineyards and blooming islands – the Swabian Sea seems to have sprung from a picture book. Welcome to one of the most beautiful and oldest cultural landscapes in Europe. From the Stone Age to the present day: Every era has left its mark on Lake Constance. The famous Swabian Sea has superlatives: Germany’s largest lake, whose southern shore belongs to Switzerland and Austria , measures a depth of up to 252 metres and covers an area of 538.5 square kilometres.

Of castles, zeppelins and the sweet life on the beach

Lake Constance, Constance, Zepellin
A zepellin over Constance, Image: Horst Lieber / shutterstock

Strolling through picturesque towns, dreaming a bit on the lakeside promenades and a little dolce vita on the beach – that’s a holiday on Lake Constance. The waves are still whispering on the velvety black shore before the sun lifts its face and the chatter of the waterfowl sounds. The sun is shining, the noise level is rising and soon there is a lot of activity on the shores of Lake Constance. Good for those who are now on the road by bike or treat themselves to a mini cruise along the north shore. Rocking on the waves – Lake Constance and shipping simply belong together. There is a lot to discover. Friedrichshafen is the city of zeppelins, but also the former summer residence of the Württemberg kings. After all, the name Graf von Zeppelin is closely associated with the second largest city in the region. From 1908 onwards, he laid the foundation stone for a flourishing industrial centre and built his world-famous airships in Friedrichshafen.

Lake Constance is summer magic and winter fairy tale at the same time. Every season has its charm. Explore the imposing Meersburg , walk in the footsteps of famous personalities, enjoy balmy summer nights, surf, swim or do pirouettes on the ice – almost every activity is conceivable on Lake Constance. When millions of rays of sunshine glitter in the rippled water, colourful sails float above the water and the banks blur in the haze of the sun, an irresistible magic spreads that hardly anyone can resist.

Lake Constance – Cute districts, playful lakeside promenades and lovely residential towns

Charming villages and landscapes are waiting to be discovered on the shores of Germany’s largest inland lake, which borders Austria and Switzerland. Lake Constance provides sights for several holiday trips. It is not easy to choose the most beautiful city. Each of the Lake Constance towns is unique and gives the region its special charm.

Lake Constance, Lindau
The harbour of Lindau, Image: Sergey Dzyuba / shutterstock

Where the lion guards the harbor, Lindau is located. Like an amphitheatre, the green mountains border the water surface on the east bank. In the background, the white giants of the Alps tower up, while on the opposite shore the green fringe disappears into the deep blue – at night, the distant lights of Bregenz greet you. During a stroll through the city, you will easily be captivated by the nostalgic flair. Crooked alleys and idyllic arcades surround the noble town houses of Lindau. Two dams connect the island city with the mainland.

In Friedrichshafen, a flight with the Zeppelin provides a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the lake. The most popular option is a trip to the local mountains. Less spectacular, but very romantic, is a visit to the Birnau Baroque Church. In the middle of vineyards, the medieval complex impresses – a former monastery from 1080. The church, which was destroyed in the Thirty Years’ War, was rebuilt between 1695 and 1701. From the castle terrace, visitors can enjoy a magnificent view.

Lake Constance, Mainau
The flower island of Mainau, Image: LENS-68 / shutterstock

A paradise and a place of love: The island of Mainau was shaped by truly royal hands. agaves, palm trees, cypresses and bougainvilleas line squares, streets and gardens – in between a sea of seasonal blossoms. In the middle of Lake Überlingen, the flower island inspires – famous for its subtropical flora and an abundance of exotic flowers. The magnificent island captivates countless visitors.

Constance is the city that travellers raved about as early as the Middle Ages. History lives here. The charming city has lost none of its charm over the centuries. The medieval townscape, the beautiful location on Lake Constance and the history-laden past make Constance almost unique. At the council meeting here in 1414-18, the only papal election on German soil was held. Numerous monuments still remind us of the 16th Council of Church history.

In the midst of extensive vineyards, filled with a cheerful Mediterranean atmosphere, the town of Meersburg is built up in terraces diagonally opposite Constance, on the north shore. Above the town of Meersburg towers a fairytale castle. The Old Castle or Meersburg is the oldest castle in Germany that is still inhabited today. It is considered one of the main attractions on Lake Constance. The most famous resident of the building was the poet Annette von Droste-Hülshoff. Most visitors to the city would probably do the same as the writer – she stayed. Narrow alleys lined with picturesque half-timbered houses characterise the image of Meersburg. The Steigstraße, which leads steeply from the shore of Lake Constance up to the upper town, is particularly pretty. Walking through the streets of the town, lined with filigree gables, you will encounter history at every turn. The prince-bishops of Constance already resided here.

Lake Constance, Alps
A fantastic backdrop with the Alps in the background, picture:
Carsten Ortlieb / shutterstock

The mountain is calling: At an altitude of 1,064 metres, the Vorarlberg Pfänder exerts its high attraction. It offers a unique view of Lake Constance, around 200 Alpine peaks and a view of the three countries. The Pfänderbahn takes you up. The way to the cable car is signposted in the city of Bregenz. Afterwards, a visit to the upper town of Bregenz is worthwhile. The idyllic district with its medieval flair almost seems a bit sleepy and attracts visitors with playful fountains and many sights.

Highlights in the shadow of famous Lake Constance cities

Whether on foot, by bike or by boat – the unheard-of beauty of the Lake Constance region has a lasting effect.

Salem stands for an extraordinary combination of castle, open-air concerts and a mountain of monkeys. The Affenberg is the most beautiful and largest monkey enclosure in Germany and offers children in particular a natural opportunity to meet fallow deer, storks and over 200 Barbary macaques.

The pile dwellings of Uhldingen-Mühlhofen are no less inspiring. Here you can take a trip to the Stone and Bronze Ages. The Pile Dwelling Museum shows two replicas of pile dwellings as our ancestors lived about 4000 years ago.

Also worth seeing are the wine-growing village of Hagnau, the district of Goldbach with a glacier mill, Sipplingen with the Haldenhof viewpoint and Langenrain with the interesting Marienschlucht nature reserve. Not to forget the vegetable island of Reichenau, which has been connected to the mainland by a dam since 1838, as well as the small town of Radolfzell, which lies in a bay of Lake Zell. The spa town impresses with many sights in a medieval town centre. A visit to Lake Constance also includes a trip to the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen. Here, the mightiest waterfall in Europe plunges 150 meters into the depths. In July, at the highest time of the water level, the natural spectacle is particularly spectacular.

More information about Lake Constance at Wikipedia.

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