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Magdeburg – Adventure with a view of the Elbe

PatrickJullien
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Magdeburg – Adventure with a view of the Elbe

Magdeburg is 1,200 years of European history. Magdeburg is green. Magdeburg is the Elbe. Saxony-Anhalt’s cultural and state capital stands for unique time-outs with a view of the river. Campers will find a place here directly on the banks of the Elbe with a view of Germany’s first Gothic cathedral. Modern rooms await hotel guests behind medieval walls.

Old and new merge in Magdeburg to create a unique cityscape. In the midst of historic fortifications rises the most modern architecture. The magnificent Magdeburg Cathedral, the Green Citadel – all in pink – by Friedensreich Hundertwasser and 1,000-year-old monastery walls filled with contemporary art are lined up here. Anyone who visits Magdeburg embarks on a journey through time. Where Otto the Great once built his favourite palace, visitors can now expect a modern cultural metropolis.

A look into the Middle Ages

Magdeburg Cathedral
Magdeburg Cathedral, Image: Magdeburg-Marketing, Andreas Lander

The towers of Magdeburg Cathedral tower above everything. The first German Emperor Otto the Great founded a new archbishopric in Magdeburg and had a magnificent cathedral built. Around the cathedral, archaeologists have discovered spectacular evidence of this time. These unique finds can be seen in the new Ottonianum Cathedral Museum. If you want to know how a real love story took place in the Middle Ages – namely that of Emperor Otto and his wife Editha – this is the right place for you.

Magdeburg’s most important sights meander along the Elbe. On the riverbank rises an impressive silhouette of fortress walls, modern architecture and church spires. One of the most beautiful views of it is at dusk from the lift bridge. The former railway bridge is one of the largest and oldest in Germany.

Unique: In the darkness, the red and blue glowing lettering of the artist Maurizio Nannucci shines on the defining building of the Magdeburg skyline. In the direction of the source of the Elbe, the motto is: From so far to here.” And in the direction of the mouth of the Elbe: “From here much further.”

Green, greener, Magdeburg

The Elbe Cycle Path leads through Magdeburg for 21 kilometres, Image: Magdeburg Marketing, Dominik Ketz

Today, only pedestrians and cyclists cross the historic building. The lift bridge offers the perfect connection between the city centre and the Rotehorn city park. The largest park in the city stretches out on a 200-hectare Elbe island. Here, the Adolf-Mittag-See invites you to take a boat trip and the large playgrounds with skater track to romp around. Beer garden and beach bar provide a delicious break.

Numerous impressive parks meander along the Elbe in Magdeburg. The state capital of Saxony-Anhalt is one of the greenest cities in Germany. The green landscapes are excellently connected via the Elbe Cycle Path. The well-developed cycle route runs through the entire city for 21 kilometres.

In addition to the historic Herrenkrugpark, the Klosterbergegarten is one of the green highlights. Here, visitors should definitely plan a detour to the greenhouses and the Gesellschaftshaus. In the stately concert halls, performances are regularly performed here in honour of the Magdeburg composer Georg Philipp Telemann – one of the most important Baroque musicians of his time.

Off to adventure

Lantern and light tour Magdeburg
Lantern and light tour for children, Image: Magdeburg Marketing, Andreas Lander

The most adventurous is in the Elbauenpark Magdeburg. The Millennium Tower towers above the almost 100-hectare amusement park. At 60 meters, the wooden tower is the tallest structure of its kind. In the tower, the secrets of 6,000 years of human history are revealed, and the exhibition invites you to touch and try things out. From the highest level there is a spectacular view. It gets even more exciting when Magdeburg visitors race down from here on the giant ElbauenZip zip line.

If you dare, you’ll end up at the climbing park. Here it can continue action-packed. And that’s not all: In the immediate vicinity, the 18-metre-high slide tower awaits brave visitors. Meanwhile, slide and adventure golf games await guests at Magdeburg Zoo. Between more than 1,000 animals, exciting insights are guaranteed. Unique in Germany: Children up to 15 years of age have free admission here.

It quickly becomes clear that there is a large selection of adventures in Magdeburg. Whether it’s a Segway excursion on park paths or a stand-up paddle tour on the arms of the Elbe: In the sports city, famous for its handball players from SC Magdeburg and the footballers of 1.

Discover new shores

A tip for all those who don’t want to paddle down the Elbe themselves: Simply change to a passenger ship of the White Fleet! If the water level is right, the ships depart daily from the Petriförder jetty. From a short city tour to a four-hour exploration trip, the captains have the right route for everyone in their program.

A very special destination is the boat trip to the waterway crossing. The Mittelland Canal flows through Europe’s largest steel structure here. In the midst of ancient floodplain forests, mighty locks and lifts were built so that the most important North German waterways can cross. The Mittelland Canal flows through the world’s longest trough bridge over the Elbe.

From the water, you can marvel at Magdeburg’s development from a mechanical engineering city to a modern metropolis. Where factory buildings and transshipment points for rail and water once lined the shore, modern districts are now being built. In the Elbbahnhof boarding station, restaurants and cafés invite you to linger. In the urban district of Buckau, artisans and designers have opened their studios. Innovative companies and research institutions are settling in the Science Port between historic cranes.

Technical masterpieces

Magdeburg has always stood for technical innovations. The best example is Otto von Guericke, one of the city’s most famous sons and a scientist. With his world-famous hemisphere experiment, he proved the existence of vacuum and the power of air pressure.

If you want to learn much more exciting background information about Magdeburg, you should not miss a city tour in the big red double-decker bus. From April to October, up to four times a day, a one-hour round trip with the best view leads through the historic cathedral district, along the green banks of the Elbe to the Elbauenpark with the extraordinary millennium tower. Via audio guide, you can learn all kinds of surprising anecdotes from 1,200 years of Magdeburg. There is even an extra Magdeburg radio play for all young passengers.

Fun for the whole family is also guaranteed on the various costume tours or a tour with the night watchman. Visitors get to know the most exciting corners of the city in a completely new way, suddenly Emperor Otto the Great or physicist Otto von Guericke himself are at their side.

Sparkling world of lights

Magdeburg World of Lights
The World of Lights, Image: Magdeburg Marketing, Andreas Lander

Magdeburg is a unique destination in many respects. Here is a very special tip: Throughout the winter, the city is transformed into an extraordinary sea of lights. More than 1.2 million lights and hundreds of kilometers of fairy lights immerse the city in a winter wonderland. Larger-than-life light sculptures line the streets and squares. The Magdeburg Virgin glitters on her city gate, the Magdeburg Horseman sits enthroned on his golden shining horse and fountains are entwined with light steles.

Visitors will find the highlight on the cathedral square: Here, eight horses, formed from fairy lights, gallop across the square and show Otto von Guericke’s hemisphere experiment. All around, picture frames shine and walk-in Christmas tree baubles provide incomparable souvenir photos. Good to know: Always about the opening of the Magdeburg Christmas Market (Monday before the 1st Advent) until 2 February, the World of Lights is freely accessible.

Impressions from Magdeburg

Contact and booking requests:

Tourist Information Magdeburg
Breiter Weg 22, 39104 Magdeburg
0391 63601-402
info@visitmagdeburg.de
www.visitmagdeburg.de
Facebook: Tourist InformationMagdeburg
Instagram: visit.magdeburg

With the kind support of the Tourist Information Magdeburg

Old Thera in Santorini

PatrickJullien
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Old Thera in Santorini

Old Thera is an ancient city on the Greek island of Santorini and is one of the most important archaeological sites on the famous Greek Aegean island.

Layer

Old Thera is located above the village of Kamari on the east coast of the island on the ridge of the 360-meter-high mountain Mesa Vouno. By car you can go up to the Mesa Vouno Pass; from the parking lot, an almost 800-meter-long footpath leads along a path to the ruins.

History of Old Thera

Old Thera, Santorini
Image: Klaus Brauner / shutterstock

Around 1620 BC, a huge volcanic eruption destroyed practically all settlements on Santorini and brought the Minoan culture there to a virtual standstill. Old Thera was founded long after this catastrophe by Doric colonists from Sparta. It is not known exactly how old the city is; archaeologically proven are the first buildings in the 9th century BC.

For many centuries, Thera was only a small, insignificant city. This only changed in the 3rd century BC, when the entire Aegean war fleet was stationed in the harbor below the city. As a result, the city was almost completely rebuilt and received numerous representative buildings. From the era as a garrison town, in which not only simple soldiers but also numerous officers lived here, many well-preserved peristyle houses of the Hellenistic upper class originate. Egyptian mercenaries were also stationed here and brought cultural influences from their homeland with them. But just as quickly as Old Thera had risen to become one of the most important urban centers of the island, it lost its importance again after the departure of the fleet in 145 BC. At the turn of the century, Roman settlers helped the city to a new heyday.

Urban layout and buildings

The city consists mainly of a street that is about 800 meters long and two to four meters wide. Along this main street, the houses of the rich citizens were lined up. The center of the city was the Agora, the square typical of ancient Greek cities, on an exposed plateau at the highest point. A little off the beaten track is a sacred precinct with the remains of a temple.

Most of the ruins of Old Thera visible today date from the heyday in the Hellenistic period, because hardly anything has been preserved from the earlier eras. One of the most important sights is the Agora, the main square. Although it was located in the middle of the city, it still offers an unobstructed view of the sea, as the houses on this side were built a little lower on the slope.

One of the most impressive buildings is the Basilike Stoa, a 46-metre-long and ten-metre-wide portico at the Agora, which was the centre of public life. The foundation walls and the lower parts of the columns are still preserved and give an idea of the impressive dimension of this building.

Below the main road on the slope is the theatre, which could seat 1500 people and was probably one of the most important cultural sites on the island. However, so little of it has been preserved that the complex can only be guessed at today. On the spur of the ridge was St. Beirk of Old Thera, grouped around a grotto dedicated to the gods Hermes and Heracles.

Archaeological significance

Since Old Thera had lost much of its importance towards the end of its settlement, far fewer archaeological finds were made here than one would expect from a city of this importance. Among the most important are some inscriptions on the sacred precinct, which date back to the early period in the 8th and 9th centuries BC. The most famous finds are some statues from the 7th century BC that were found in the burial grounds below the city.

Great Tollensesee

PatrickJullien
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Great Tollensesee

In the southeastern part of the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania , the Mecklenburg Lake District ends with the beautiful Tollensesee. The Tollensesee stretches 25 km not far from the Müritzsee and has an area of almost 18 square meters in a gently rolling moraine landscape shaped by the Ice Age. The river that gives it its name is the Tollense, which flows into the lake of the same name in Neubrandenburg.

The district town of Neubrandenburg, also known as the city of the four gates, is located on the northeastern shore of the lake, it is the regional centre of the region with a catchment area of about 420,000 inhabitants and offers all the amenities of a city with about 65,000 inhabitants, such as a varied international gastronomy, hotels and guesthouses, exciting cultural and entertainment offers as well as a wide range of sports and recreation opportunities.

The lake can be reached from Berlin within about 90 minutes by car; Hamburg needs a little more sitting: a good 400 km separate the Hanseatic city from Lake Tollense.

Activities at Lake Tollensesee

Holidaymakers or day tourists have the choice between the wide range of experiences and activities offered on or on the lake:

Excursion boat trip

To get to know the lake in its entire extent of 10 km long and a good 2 km wide, a trip on a passenger ship of the so-called “White Fleet” is recommended. The “sea voyages” last between one and a half and two and a half hours; you can get on and off at various piers around the lake. A restaurant will take care of the physical well-being on board. In addition, bicycles are also transported. What could be more obvious than circumnavigating the lake by bike or on foot and driving parts of the way by boat?

Cycling

Tollensesee, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
Cycling tour around Lake Tollense, Image: Wolfgang Cibura / shutterstock

Directly on the lake and mainly with a view of the wide lake area, the attractive, well-signposted 34 km long cycle route, which begins in Neubrandenburg, leads around the lake. The route is easily passable and signposted in both directions. Pedal knights are rewarded with inviting rest areas and magnificent views as well as tranquil villages that invite you to linger.

Hiking and Nordic Walking

Hiking trails and Nordic walking routes in the lake region are laid out on attractive routes. Hikers should not miss the Behmshöhe observation tower on the eastern shore of the lake, built in 1905 for tourist reasons. The tower with a height of 34 m stands on a boulder and allows a view from a height of 42 m to Neubrandenburg and across the lake to the west shore.

Aquatics

Leisure captains will definitely get their money’s worth around Lake Tollense: Watercraft á la Couleur are available for hire – even for several days: from canoes to pedal boats, rowing boats or sailing boats to motorboats and hydrobikes, there is something for every taste. A water ski slope in Neubrandenburg attracts with attractive offers for the whole family.

Angling

Petri disciples should already provide a floating vessel to go on a fishing trip, because there are few suitable fishing spots directly from the shore. The small, cosy harbours or jetties in the villages are more suitable. Day fishing permits can be purchased – for a longer period of time.

Beach life

The lidos on the west and east banks invite you to relax with attractive sunbathing lawns, playgrounds and gastronomic establishments. Fans of naturism will find suitable bathing spots on the west bank near the campsite. Whether with swimwear or without clothing, this is what unites the lidos on the lake: without exception, they have been awarded the “Blue European Flag” for outstanding environmental management.

Overnight stay in the Tollensesee region

Accommodation for every budget, such as in a holiday home, with private providers, in guesthouses or in a 4-star hotel, is available in Neubrandenburg and the lake area. The only campsite on the lake is located on the west shore and is characterized by a particularly quiet, idyllic location.

Culinary

The region of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is known for its hearty and down-to-earth cuisine, which is very maritime near the coast.

The Tollensesee, which is rich in fish, provides a wide range of edible fish such as carp, pike, zander, whitefish and perch. They can be found delicately and expertly prepared on the plates of the restaurants on Lake Tolense. Other regional and seasonal specialties from the countryside and the lake round off the international food offer.

Art and culture

A special event highlight are the art and culture weeks “Mecklenburgische Seenplattte Tollensee”, which take place in the first weeks of September each year. Guided tours, concerts, theatre, readings, exhibitions, markets and much more are on the colourful programme. A visit to the city centre of Neubrandenburg with its old fortifications and ramparts and the Museum of Shipping and the Regional Museum with an exhibition on the history of the city and the region are worthwhile all year round.

Excursions in the Tollensesee region

Although the region on and around the Tollensee has something to offer for every taste, a trip to the Baltic Sea coast, e.g. to Germany’s largest Island of Rügen with the chalk cliffs worth seeing, to the imperial baths on the filigree Usedom Peninsula or to the Hanseatic cities Rostock and Stralsund. If you like it maritime, pay a visit to the seaside resort of Warnemünde. From the banks of the Warnow, not only huge cruise ships, but also impressive seagoing ships calling at the port of Rostock can be observed

The Belarusian capital Minsk: an uncut diamond

PatrickJullien
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The Belarusian capital Minsk: an uncut diamond

Appeal to Minsk as a holiday destination? Anyone who says such things is quickly faced with a persistent frown. Because in our latitudes, the capital of Belarus is not necessarily one of the top destinations for a city trip. But the city has a lot to offer. It is bursting not only with lofty buildings, but also with culture and a good dose of post-communism.

Freedom Square in the Upper Town

Minsk Independence Square
Independence Square in Misk, Image: Marianna Ianovska / shutterstock

The center of the city is undoubtedly Freedom Square, which is located in the heart of Minsk. The historic center of the city has been repeatedly destroyed by disasters such as fire and wars. But as a result, many of the destroyed buildings were rebuilt true to the original and still give an impression of the beauty and splendor of that time. This includes the Old Town Hall, the first version of which was built in the 16th century.

It has been the victim of fires several times, but has always been rebuilt. Tsar Nicholas I had it completely demolished in 1857. Shortly after the turn of the millennium, it was rebuilt according to historical plans. Opposite is the Catholic Cathedral of the Name of Mary. Originally a Baroque building, built in 1710 as a Jesuit church, the cathedral was redesigned again and again after 1798. Inside, it is now in the Rococo style.

The National Art Museum of the Republic of Belarus

This museum is the largest in Belarus, and includes a collection of more than 30,000 works of art. The house, which is housed in two different buildings, has two large departments: National Art and International Art. Visitors can learn about the complete history of Belarusian art. Russian artists from the 18th to the early 20th centuries are shown as well as Western European painting from the 16th to 20th centuries. Here there is a focus on Flemish landscape painting. The Oriental Collection with works of art from the 14th to the 20th century is unique.

Gorky Park

Gorky Park, Minsk
Gorky Park in Minsk, Image: xlayserg / shutterstock

Visitors enter the public city park Gorki-Park through a mighty entrance gate, which is somewhat reminiscent of the Brandenburg Gate. As early as 1800, the park was opened to the public under its then name “Governor’s Garden”. The renaming to Gorky Park, after the Russian poet Maxim Gorky, occurred during the Soviet era, when many public parks throughout the Soviet Union were given this name. The central point of the park is a 54-metre-high Ferris wheel, which has been integrated into the park’s own amusement park. There is also an ice rink, a planetarium and an observatory. In summer, the park is especially popular with families, because then children can go riding here guided and supervised.

The Central Botanical Garden

In the green oasis of Minsk, there is a rather adult audience. Minsk is teeming with parks and green spaces, but the Central Botanical Garden is probably the most beautiful green place to go. The highlight is a large-scale exhibition of rare and endangered species of medicinal plants, aromas and aquatic plants. These do not only come from the local area. Many have their real home in the Far East, in Siberia, in the Crimea, in the Caucasus and in Central Asia, in East Asia and in North America. On the one hand, the Orangery is a paradise for citrus plant lovers. On the other hand, tropical and subtropical plant species can be viewed here. All around there are numerous green areas that invite you to take a walk and even a small lake.

The National Library of Belarus

On the Founded on 15 September 1922, the National Library of Belarus was initially used as a university library. At that time, the eight million media were stored in another building. In 1989, it was decided to build a new library, and this is a visual masterpiece. On the On 16 June 2006, the 72-metre-high and 23-storey building was handed over to its intended purpose. It bears the shape of a huge rhombic cuboctahedron. Diamonds are also cut in this form, which is why the building is also known as the “Diamond of Knowledge”. At night, the library is colorfully illuminated by numerous light sources and thus actually looks like a shimmering gemstone. It is certainly one of the most architecturally interesting buildings in the city.

The Belarusian State Circus

Like many other post-Soviet states, Belarus also has a permanently installed circus building as well as a state circus. The round building dates back to 1959. Inside, there are four different floor coverings, which can be used in a differentiated way by a circus. There is an area for ice shows and one for light shows. The area, which is equipped with rubber covering, is mainly used for animal shows. There is also an area with high-quality parquet: artistic demonstrations take place here. The program is renewed every two months.

The Belarusian National Museum of History and Culture

This museum is extremely comprehensive and has five different sections. The Museum of the History of Belarusian Cinema, the Museum of the First Congress of the RSDLP, the Museum of the History of Theatre and Music Culture of Belarus, the Museum of Nature and Ecology and the Museum of Modern Belarusian Statehood. Each visitor can set their own priorities, because one weekend is by no means enough to wander through all departments. Items of clothing, uniforms, coins, books, weapons, archaeological finds, porcelain, watches, furniture and much more are on display. The department for icon painting is particularly worthwhile.

Berching Cittaslow and jewel of the Middle Ages

PatrickJullien
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0
Berching Cittaslow and jewel of the Middle Ages

With more than 1100 years, Berching is one of the oldest settlements in the region in the middle of the Altmühltal Nature Park in Bavaria. History and tradition have shaped the city. Four ancient city gates, a completely preserved city wall with partially accessible battlements and 13 pointed, fortified towers characterize the impressive, medieval townscape of Berching.

Behind the city wall from the 15th century , magnificent, colourful town houses are neatly lined up, with half-timbered houses and mighty barns squeezed in between. They still bear witness to the wealth of the merchant town today. Wide, cobbled squares, winding alleys and a babbling city stream invite you to take a tranquil stroll through the old town. Traditional, cosy restaurants and cafés will be happy to spoil you here in the town of Cittaslow . Three parks invite you to linger, to fitness or to play.

City on the water

Berching from the air
Berching from the air, Image: City of Berching

The state-approved resort in the district of Neumarkt, picturesquely embedded in the Sulztal, is not only a true gem of the Middle Ages, but also a city on the water and that has a tradition: As early as 1846, King Ludwig I built the one named after him and still preserved today. Ludwig-Danube-Main Canal. Since 1992, Berching has been located directly on the Main-Danube Canal, the great European waterway. An unforgettable premium experience here is a contemplative tow ride on the barge “Alma Viktoria” on the old Ludwig Canal – pulled by a horse, just like in the old days.

Discover Berching

Whether it’s tours through the historic old town of Berching, culinary tours for connoisseurs or an adventure tour with entertaining acting scenes – our gem has something for every taste. Our tour guides inform and entertain visitors warmly and competently. Here every group will find the right thing for themselves!

Cycling and hiking paradise

Berching city wall
The city wall, Image: City of Berching

For cyclists and e-bikers, the canal has its own fascination: Bamberg, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Vienna – can be reached from Berching in hours or days by bike. The Five Rivers Cycle Route runs 200 km through Bavaria, along the Pegnitz, Vils, Naab, Danube and Altmühl rivers. The popular Franconian Water Cycle Path also leads directly through Berching, and the Altmühltal Cycle Path is also nearby. Healthy air, intact nature, murmuring streams, forest and field as far as the eye can see. Nature invites you to hike around Berching. Seven signposted circular hiking trails show the most beautiful corners of the municipality. Hikers can reach great vantage points and natural monuments such as the High Fountain, caves or the wildly romantic tufa terraces. A detour away from Berching is the Altmühltal Panorama Trail, one of Germany’s top trails, whose Sulztal loop runs directly over Berching.

But four certified long-distance hiking trails also lead through Berching. The most famous is probably the Frankenweg, which goes from the Rennsteig to the Swabian Alb. After a bike tour or hike, you can relax wonderfully in the Berching adventure pool with hot whirlpool, 50 m slide, children’s paddling pool, lazy river, steam bath and outdoor area with sunbathing lawn. Boat trips from Kelheim through the Danube Gorge or tow tours on the Ludwig Canal complete the diverse, attractive hiking, cycling and sightseeing offer in and around Berching.

Active & Family

Berching
Image: City of Berching

A successful active holiday also includes experiences. Berching and its surroundings leave nothing to be desired: from fishing, Nordic walking, swimming, boat tours on the Altmühl, to horseback riding, hang-gliding, mini golf, inline skating, photography, yoga, meditation, climbing, bowling, stand-up paddling or golf, there is something for everyone here. Families can also redesign every day in the middle of the Altmühl Valley Nature Park, visit the appropriate water experience playground, get up close and personal with animals, collect fossils, visit an interesting museum, an amusement park or take part in guided adventure tours.

Culture and tradition

A trademark of Berching is undoubtedly culture – with traditional festivals, theater, concerts and much more. Berching is the birthplace of the great opera reformer Christoph Willibald Gluck. In addition to the birthplace and the Gluckwanderweg (in the districts of Weidenwang and Erasbach), a modern multimedia presentation in the Berching Museum, the Gluck event taking place in the summer and the new cultural hall commemorate the famous son of the city. Since 1722, the “Berchinger Rossmarkt” has taken place every year at the beginning of February. Up to 100 horses are rounded up at Bavaria’s largest winter folk festival in the historic city centre.

Culinary magic

You are guaranteed to experience your personal “Schmackofatz moments” here in the Cittaslow town of Berching ! Berching’s restaurateurs rely on Slow Food cuisine in many places. With brilliant creations, they pamper their guests to the highest level all year round and focus on regional, seasonal and down-to-earth cuisine. In terms of culinary delights, you should not miss the Berching Cittaslow Spring Kitchen. In March, the participating inns are focusing on bringing you healthy and energetic into spring. The counterpart to this is the Wild Autumn in October, where the chefs serve game dishes and autumnal culinary delights.

The Benedictine Abbey of Plankstetten Monastery

The “green monastery” Plankstetten with an organic farm shop presents itself as a spiritual centre. The Romanesque monastery church invites you to contemplation. In the monastery tavern and in the farm shop, the monks provide for the physical well-being with ecologically produced food.

Celebrations

In summer, our festivals Berchinale and “Kanal im Feuerzauber” attract people to the city. On these weekends you can expect a colourful programme with music, art, paddle boat races, duck races, light art, large fireworks on the Main-Danube Canal and much more. Always on the 3rd weekend of Advent, the romantic Christmas market with nativity scene exhibition takes place in the historic city centre.

You can feel the real flair of Berching when you walk through winding alleys, along centuries-old buildings to dreamy squares.

Conferences in Berching

Berching is located between the cities of Nuremberg, Regensburg and Munich and is an ideal place for conferences, seminars and workshops of all kinds. Here you will find many numerous conference houses with bright, light-flooded conference rooms and top technical equipment of the finest!

Excursion destinations nearby

Due to its central location, Berching is an ideal starting point for the many attractive excursion destinations in the surrounding area: how about a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Regensburg, the Franconian metropolis of Nuremberg, the episcopal cities, Amberg and Eichstätt, or the Palatine city of Neumarkt? It is only 15 minutes by car to the natural bathing lake Kratzmühle with sandy beach, boat rental, mini golf course and lake café. The surfing and bathing paradise Franconian Lake District is also not far away. Whether it’s a fossil hunt in an old quarry, an exciting bird of prey show at Rosenburg Castle in Riedenburg, a stalactite cave, monasteries or an open-air museum, the “Altmühltal Nature Park Experience” attracts visitors with its many attractions.

Impressions

Information & Service

Tourist Information Berching
Pettenkoferplatz 12
92334 Berching
E-mail: tourismus@berching.de
Internet: www.berching.de
Phone: 08462 20513

with the kind support of the city of Berching

The Thuringian Forest – a world of experience in the middle of Germany

PatrickJullien
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0
The Thuringian Forest – a world of experience in the middle of Germany

The Großer Beerberg in the Thuringian Forest Nature Park is just under 1,000 metres above sea level. Located southeast of Ilmenau, in the Free State of Thuringia , this low mountain range is a popular place for active people. Dense forest, rugged rocks and gentle hills await visitors. They can pursue a wide variety of activities there all year round.

The Thuringian Forest in summer

Hiking in the Thuringian Forest
Hiking in the Thuringian Forest, Image: Oliver Hlavaty Photo / shutterstock

When the temperatures rise and it becomes almost unbearable in the sun, the cool forest offers a welcome refreshment. Numerous hiking and cycling trails lead through the Thuringian Forest and invite you to explore.

Wander

About 200 different tours can be undertaken through the Thuringian Forest with its numerous peaks. These include themed hikes with a focus on culture, history and water. There is something for every age group on the different routes, and hikes with children are also possible without any problems. The Rennsteig, Germany’s most famous hiking trail, leads hikers from Hörschel to Blankenstein. The Rennsteig is the name given to old trade or courier routes, the one in the Thuringian Forest is considered one of the most beautiful and varied.

Cycling

Whether leisurely with the family on gravel paths or rather adventurous on a mountain bike, everything is possible for cycling fans in the Thuringian Forest. The well-maintained cycle paths through forests, meadows and along streams and rivers make every excursion an experience.

Climb

Various natural rocks and a 25-metre-high climbing tower offer climbing fans a true paradise. Both professionals and beginners will find suitable routes. The necessary equipment can be rented from the climbing guides on site. So nothing stands in the way of the exciting experience.

The Thuringian Forest in winter

As soon as winter falls over the Thuringian Forest and the first snow falls, nature is transformed. It becomes quieter and also a bit more mysterious. Then it is particularly nice to go on a winter hike.

Winter hiking

With the right clothing and footwear, a hike in the snow-covered Thuringian Forest is something special. To make it fun for less experienced people and children, the paths are cleared or rolled. About 530 kilometres are available and are specially marked as winter hiking trails.

Skiing

Winter in the Thuringian Forest
Magnificent winter landscape in the Thuringian Forest, Image: limpicture64 / shutterstock

In addition to fans of the two classic boards, snowboarders, ski hikers and ski jumpers will also find optimal conditions in the Thuringian Forest. A total of 22 lifts bring snow enthusiasts to the top and offer wonderful winter fun. Some slopes are floodlit at certain times, so skiing is possible even after sunset. The right equipment can be rented on site at one of the ski schools.

Cross country

Fans of the Nordic variant of skiing will find perfectly groomed trails in the Thuringian Forest. Some of them can also be used at night thanks to floodlights. In total, the Rennweg, which has been prepared as a winter hiking trail, connects 1,600 kilometres of cross-country skiing and skiing trails. A true paradise for beginners and advanced skiers.

Toboggan

For those who have nothing to do with skis, their own toboggan slopes offer an enjoyable alternative. In addition to the classic sled, you can also use an air-filled tire as a base. So-called snow tubing is particularly fast-paced. In four different facilities, you can go in search of a special adrenaline rush.

Skating

The ice rink in the Gleisdreieck Waltershausen, the Ilmenau ice rink and the Sonneberg ice rink offer ice skaters fun in any weather. A great alternative on rainy days!

Places of interest in the Thuringian Forest

A holiday in the Thuringian Forest is active recreation. Numerous sporting activities lure you outside. But the forest has even more to offer.

Historic buildings

The Thuringian Forest is home to a variety of old castles and palaces, from ruins to stately country estates. Particularly worth seeing, for example, is the Wartburg near Eisenach. It is over 900 years old and became famous through Martin Luther’s translation of the New Testament. His workroom can still be visited today.

The picturesque ruins of Brandenburg near Lauchröden are no longer as well preserved as other castles, but they are all the more exciting. An on-site museum offers interesting information about local history, and the viewing platform offers an excellent view over the Werra Valley.

Glassblowing town of Lauscha

True craftsmanship is hard to find today in the age of machine manufacturing. We are all the more impressed when people really master their craft. In the coloured glassworks, the art of glassblowing, which is still carried out manually, can be traced. During a guided tour, you can watch the glassblowers live at work. The Museum of Glass Art exhibits workpieces from the late Middle Ages to the present day.

The fascination of subterranean worlds

Caves and mines have something magical about them. They are part of legends and fairy tales and awaken the spirit of discovery in us. The Saalfeld Fairy Grotto attracts numerous visitors with its breathtaking fairytale cathedral, while in the Merkers Adventure Mine you can walk around 20 kilometres through the exciting world of tunnels and grottoes.

The Simien National Park in Ethiopia

PatrickJullien
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The Simien National Park in Ethiopia

In northeast Africa lies the state of Ethiopia, which is the most populous landlocked country in the world with over 112 million inhabitants. Ethiopia is one of the highest countries in Africa. For this reason, there are often extensive high mountains to see here.
In the north of Ethiopia lies the Simien National Park, which was founded in 1969. This 179 square kilometer park is particularly known for its spectacular and unique mountain landscapes. The mountains can reach altitudes of 1,900 to 4,500 meters above sea level. The highest mountain there and also in the entire state of Ethiopia is the “Ras Daschän”. This reaches a height of 4,533 meters, making it the seventh highest mountain in all of Africa. The national park has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The flora in Simien National Park

Due to the rather remote location of the mountains in Simien National Park, there are some unknown but native plant species. Below 3,000 meters above sea level, you can find some edible plant species, such as African olive trees, East African junipers and water pears, where both fruit and leaves are edible. The steep slopes in the park are mainly overgrown with tussock grass and numerous herbs. From an altitude of about 3,800 metres, the landscape is overgrown with subalpine grasslands. Abyssinian rose, African immortelle, tree heather, torch lily, various nightshade species and other plants can be found here.

Wildlife in Simien National Park

Wildlife Simien National Park
Image: Endless Traveller / shutterstock

The northern Ethiopian national park was founded, among other things, because of various endangered animal species, all of which should be able to move freely in their natural habitat here. For example, djeladas (blood-breasted baboons) live in the national park. This is only found in the Ethiopian highlands and it is the last surviving monkey species that feeds mainly on grass, which is why it is harmless to humans. The most striking feature of these baboons is a red, hairless spot on the chest, which gives it its name. In addition, the males have an impressive mane and sharp canines.

About 3,000 specimens still live in the shelter of Simien National Park and can move freely and unhindered here. But there are also other animals in the national park: The Ethiopian ibex, for example, feels extremely at home on the cliffs of the rocky slopes in the north. He lives very withdrawn. The Ethiopian wolf and jackal also live in the park and are only found in Ethiopia. It is one of the rarest greyhounds in the world and depends on the tufted grassy areas of the mountains. Other animals include leopards. Several bird species are also native to the park: Klunkeribis, Taranta parrot, Abyssinian rock pigeon, lamb vulture, raven and mirror wheatear and many more can be found in the highlands and in the cliff area.

Stunning Accommodations in Simien National Park

Jelada, Simien National Park
Jelada, Image: Endless Traveller / shutterstock

Since you can be wonderfully on the road in Simien National Park for a few days, there are also a few accommodations to be comfortable and warm at night. For example, Africa’s highest hotel is located in Simien National Park. The “Simien Lodge” is located on the edge of a steep slope at an altitude of almost 3,300 meters. It consists of a total of ten spacious round huts with 20 rooms. These have either a double bed or two large single beds.

Bathrooms are of course also included. All rooms are equipped with underfloor heating and have a balcony that offers fantastic views. A restaurant and a bar are also part of the complex. The restaurant has a beautiful, cosy log fire and serves both international and Ethiopian dishes. The bar stands out as the tallest bar in Africa and closes when the last guest has left. To drink there are various Ethiopian beers, South African and Ethiopian wines as well as some other drinks. Due to its unique location, the hotel complex offers a breathtaking view of the varied landscapes of the Ethiopian mountains.

The lodge offers its guests various activities, excursions and safe transport options, about which they can find out the best information on site.
Another place to stay is the “Limalimo Lodge”, which has existed since 2016. There are 14 rooms here as well as a bar, a restaurant and a spacious terrace that offers a unique view of the mountains. Here, too, both international and local dishes are served.

The old imperial city of Gondar

At the foot of the mountains of the Simien National Park lies the old imperial city of Gondar (also spelled Gonder) at an altitude of about 2,133 meters. If you are on holiday in Ethiopia, you should definitely include Gondar in your daily programme. Historical buildings and legacies such as old churches and an impressive castle complex are extremely worth seeing.

The Sternberg Lake District: idyll and action away from the tourist strongholds

PatrickJullien
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The Sternberg Lake District: idyll and action away from the tourist strongholds

Idyllic natural landscapes, a species-rich flora and fauna and some popular sights: The Sternberg Lake District has developed into a popular holiday destination in recent years. The nature park, founded in 2005, is located in the east of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania , east of Lake Schwerin in the district of Ludwigslust-Parchim. With the founding of the nature park, the Förderverein Naturpark Sternberger Seenland e.V. was also founded.

This supports the daily work of the nature park administration with various campaigns for the preservation and sustainable protection of the nature park and its biodiversity. A good starting point for all those who are guests in the region for the first time and want to explore it is the Nature Park Centre in the 4,000-inhabitant town of Warin. Here, visitors can find out about a wide variety of excursion destinations, the history of the nature park and the numerous special features of the regional flora and fauna. In addition, everyone can equip themselves here for their discovery tour through the Sternberg Lake District. For example, you can buy binoculars, hiking maps, nature books or backpacks in the nature park centre. The Nature Park Centre is open from May to September from Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and in the autumn and winter months (from October to April) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Four nature guards offer guided tours of the Sternberg Lake District in the season from May to October.

Spectacular steep slopes, idyllic gems, unspoilt nature

The Sternberg Lake District is particularly popular with nature holidaymakers and those seeking relaxation – and for good reason. After all, in addition to many small and large bodies of water, the nature park also offers numerous hiking and cycling trails as well as idyllic gems and unspoilt nature away from the big tourist strongholds. The largest lake in the nature park is the Großer Wariner See, but the Neuklostersee and the Großer Sternberger See are also very popular with tourists and locals.

The spectacular steep slopes up to 40 metres high in the Warnow-Mildenitz breakthrough valley are just as worth experiencing as a hike to the Warnow breakthrough valley. There is an approximately four-kilometre-long circular trail here, which leads, among other things, to a Slavic castle ruin in Groß Raden. The largest inland salt marsh in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania near Sülten also captivates many tourists every year. Among other things, numerous rare plant and animal species can be found here. Among other things, the kingfisher, the osprey and the liverwort have become native here in recent decades.

Sternberg Lake District – hiking, cycling and paddling

Pinnower See, Sternberg Lake District
At Lake Pinnow in the Sternberg Lake District, Photo: TMV/Susanne Krauss

Active holidaymakers are also in the right place in the Sternberg Lake District. After all, the region offers ideal conditions for hikers, cyclists and water sports enthusiasts. For example, the cycle path from Dobbertin to Sternberg is considered one of the most beautiful in Germany. The many idyllic waterways and lakes are bustling with activity. And if you don’t have your own boat, you can rent padel boats and canoes at various points in the region. In addition, the region is a true paradise for young and old anglers. A very special one in the Sternberg Lake District is the so-called Sternberg cake. The sandstone chunk, which is about 25 million years old, owes its name to its appearance, which is reminiscent of a layered cake. Fossil shells, snails and shark teeth are densely packed in the rock. These lived in the sea many millions of years ago and reached the earth’s surface through the Ice Age, among other things.

Relaxed stroll through Sternberg

In the middle of the approximately 540 square kilometre area is the small town of Sternberg, which gave the Lakeland its name and, with its 4,000 inhabitants, is also the largest village in the Lakeland. Among other things, it is worth taking a relaxed stroll through the historic old town, on the edge of which the church of St. Maria and St. Nicholas is idyllically enthroned on hills. From the approximately 60-metre-high church tower, you can enjoy a wonderful view over the entire region.

Sternberg Market Square
Blick auf die Stadtkirche St. Maria & St. Nikolaus Sternberg und das alte Postamt // view of the city church St. Maria & St. Nikolaus Sternberg and the old post office

And the surrounding villages also offer a lot of sights in addition to the idyllic nature. The Archaeological Open-Air Museum Groß Raden should not be missed. The more than 1,000-year-old temple castle has been extensively reconstructed in recent decades. Here, among other things, the early settlement by Slavic tribes is made visible and tangible. The region also has several monasteries from the 13th century – including Temzin, Neukloster and Dobbertin. Another attraction is the Zülow hydroelectric power plant. The largest hydroelectric power plant in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, which has been designated as a technical monument for about 40 years, has been privately owned since 2004.

Accommodation in the Sternberg Lake District

Throughout the region, there are of course numerous accommodations for every taste and budget – from various star hotels, to private holiday homes and apartments, to four campsites. Popular accommodations include the “Feriendorf Sternberger Seenland” in Dabel and the group house & guesthouse “Haus am Walde” in Borkow.

Rabat – historic royal city and modern metropolis

PatrickJullien
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Rabat – historic royal city and modern metropolis

Morocco The capital Rabat is a metropolis full of fascinating impressions. In many areas, Rabat is a vibrant city whose atmosphere is shaped by a diverse, colorful and modern society. But at every turn you come across the witnesses of a long and eventful history. The city’s location on the Atlantic Ocean, but not far from the Strait of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean Sea, has always attracted many conquerors, sailors and merchants.

As early as 800 years before Christ, Phoenician merchants built a trading post here. Roman emperors turned the port town on the edge of the then known world into a flourishing small town. At the turn of the first millennium, the teachings of Islam were introduced and numerous caliphs took turns as rulers. In addition to Rabat, the cities of Fez, Marrakech, and Meknès also became so-called royal cities, where the rulers of various dynasties built their palaces.

Under Spanish influences, Rabat became an important overseas port, visited by hundreds of ships from all nations of Europe. At the beginning of the 19th century, the city was increasingly shaped by French politics and culture. Morocco became independent in 1956. The constitution of the new state is a constitutional monarchy and Rabat is now not only the capital, but once again a royal city.

Great impressions while strolling through a fascinating city

Rabat is divided into various areas of tourist interest, the origins of which lie in very different eras. There is the Arab old town, the Moorish fortress Kasbah of the Oudayas, the Hassan district with the tower of the same name, the mausoleum of Mohammed V and the royal palace Mischua. A completely different cityscape is offered by the Ville Nouvelle, the modern, French-influenced new town. A stroll through the city should also include a visit to the venerable and mysterious necropolis of Chellah.

The lively streets of the medina

Hassan Tower, Rabat
The Hassan Tower, Image: Olena Tur / shutterstock

The medina, the old town of Rabat, is enclosed on three sides by a high wall. Inside, you will encounter a symmetrically arranged maze of alleys with a lively, exotic atmosphere. A variety of merchants delight with a rich range of food, spices, clothing and souvenirs. It is the right place to buy a beautiful and original souvenir of visiting Rabat.

The Kasbah of the Oudayas

Not far from the medina rise the mighty fortress walls of the Kasbah of the Oudayas. The fortress dates back to the 12th century and has been designated by UNESCO as part of the World Heritage Site. Behind the Moors, a picturesque district awaits the visitor, which is also called the “city within the city” by its inhabitants. There is a small park in Andalusian style and some very interesting museums. The handicraft collection of the Musée des Oudaïas is particularly worth seeing. In the middle of the Kasbah is also the oldest mosque in the city, the Jama al Atiq. The almost 1,000-year-old building was extensively restored in the 18th century. In many places in the Kasbah of the Oudayas you can enjoy a great view of the mouth of the Bou-Regreg River, the beaches, port facilities and the neighboring town of Salè on the opposite bank of the river. A nice place for a rest is the nearby Café Maure, which is more than 100 years old.

Rabat’s landmark: The Hassan Tower

The unmissable focal point of the Hassan district is the 44-metre-high Hassan Tower. The square building has an edge length of 16 m and was intended to become a huge minaret in the early 12th century, to the top of which you could ride up with a horse. Unfortunately, the tower and the associated mosque were never completed. The fragments of walls and columns on the square in front of the tower give an idea of the gigantic size of this sacred building. Only a few meters away is the mausoleum of Mohammed V. He was the first Moroccan king after independence from the French colonial era. His son King Hassan II has also found his final resting place here.

The Chellah Necropolis

A very special place is the necropolis, the “city of the dead” Chellah. Through a gate flanked by two massive towers, one enters the area enclosed by high walls. In 13. and In the 14th century, numerous important personalities, nobles and religious leaders were buried here. The tomb of Sultan Abu l-Hasan, who was buried here in 1351, is well preserved and worth seeing. After a walk through a well-kept park, you will reach the ruins of the Roman settlement of Sala Colonia. They were discovered in the 1930s and carefully exposed. The
The surviving remains of the walls of residential buildings and shops show how everyday life was in antiquity.

Art and culture in Rabat

Rabat, Morocco's capital
View of the capital Rabat, Image: saiko3p / shutterstock

A complex insight into Moroccan history from Roman times to the present day is provided by the Musée Archéologique in the Ville Nouvelle, the new town. Just a few steps away, the Musée Mohammed VI d’art moderne et contemporain inspires with its Moorish façade and a highly interesting collection of art and paintings from different eras.

The beaches of Rabat

If you are looking for refreshment after a stroll through the city and sightseeing, you will be thrilled by the extensive beaches of the city. Directly in the city area, near the Kasbah des Oudayas, are the beaches Temara and Skirat. At the “Plage des Nations” you will even find good opportunities for surfing.

Experience Macau up close: The best sights

PatrickJullien
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Experience Macau up close: The best sights

For over 400 years, the former Portuguese colony of Macau has shared its semi-autonomous status with Hong Kong, but has its own laid-back charm. The region’s unique Eurasian heritage is evident in many areas: local cuisine (often referred to as one of the earliest fusion cuisines in the world), architecture, customs, and language. And Macau’s historic squares, peaceful parks and beachfronts, despite their manageable size, are a destination for adventurers of all kinds. Which highlights are particularly worthwhile can be found here.

While the use of online casino offers has risen sharply in recent years, players in Macau are entering the glittering world of real roulette, blackjack and poker. Because it is not for nothing that Macau is called the “Las Vegas of Asia”. The so-called “Cotai Strip” is particularly recommended here. Because it is this piece of land that makes Macau a gambling metropolis. The Strip’s luxury casino resorts offer everything your heart desires. In addition to glamorous restaurants and clubs, there is even an indoor canal where visitors can take romantic rides in gondolas. From the gigantic Venetian, which is practically a city in its own right, to the Hollywood-style Studio City with an impressive Ferris wheel, the casinos are a breathtaking world of experience even for people who don’t want to gamble.

As suspected, entertainment lovers in Macau are in for a treat. So fans of epic love stories will also get their money’s worth. Macau is home to the world’s largest water stage show. With the help of a 14-million-liter pool, thousands of visitors marvel at the acrobatics and acting of the famous “House of Dancing Water”, which was not only written but also conducted by Franco Dragone, director of Cirque du Soleil. Since there is hardly a comparable spectacle anywhere in the world, it is at the top of most travelers’ must-see lists. And because the show is very popular, you should book tickets online in advance. By the way: The construction of the water theater took 19 months and cost over 250 million US dollars.

History buffs can experience the complete contrast to the glittering world of the “Cotai Strip” in Macau. For example, in “Coloane Village”, a picturesque village on the south coast of Coloane. Its cobblestone streets and charming houses offer not only peace and serenity, but also a magnificent panorama for holiday photos. Because the pretty buildings that line up in the black sand of “Hac Sa Beach” shine in the colors of the rainbow. By the way, this is also where the “Lord Stow’s Bakery” is located, where the best Portuguese egg cakes are supposedly offered. There’s even more history in the historic center of Macau, which is now also a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Over 20 historically significant landmarks can be found here, such as statues, public squares and military barracks.

What makes Macau so unique is the Eurasian flair, i.e. the mixing of Portuguese and Chinese cultures. In addition to many European remnants from the colonial era, there are also many highlights of Asian origin to discover. This is also the case with the small, rustic fishing village of Taipa, which is located between Chinese temples. Particularly popular is the pedestrian zone “Rua do Cunha”, which is also celebrated as the culinary hotspot. Traditional food stalls, grocery stores, bakeries and many other shops are lined up here. What you should definitely try are the “serradurra”, a kind of pudding, almond biscuits, Chinese dishes with seared pork and the famous peanut candies.

Rua do Cunha, Macau
Entrance to Rua do Cunha in Macau, Image: Francesco Bonino / shutterstock

Not only gourmets, but also art lovers will not miss out in Macau. Because there is also an extremely large art collection here. The Macau Museum of Art is housed in a five-story building and is Macau’s only art museum with works by local and international artists of all eras. Best of all, admission is completely free and visitors are allowed to stay in the museum as long as they want. And if that’s too boring for you, visit the AJ Hackett Tower, named after the man who “invented” bungee jumping. So it’s no surprise that it’s home to a sophisticated, commercial bungee jump facility that offers travelers the ultimate thrill.

Tip: If you are exploring Macau, you should also pay a visit to Hong Kong, which is only 70 kilometers away. By ferry, the journey takes just under an hour.

 

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