The Sunny Side of Germany
The Regions
The Black Forest: the Jewel of South West Germany
Ask ten people what the Black Forest means and you get ten different answers. Some talk about the delicious Black Forest gateau and cuckoo clocks; others love the medieval towns and villages with half-timbered houses; many think of the high standards of accommodation and service; still others recommend the relaxing spas and unspoiled countryside. But they all agree on one thing – the Black Forest is just plain romantic.
Stretching from Karlsruhe in the north, down to the Swiss border in the south, this area of SouthWest Germany has attracted vacationers for well over a century. As for the name – that’s because from a distance, the trees in the Schwarzwald looked black – literally a Schwarz (black) wald (forest). But, this lovely region also includes orchards, meadows and farms, sparkling lakes and rushing streams. Best of all, this is the sunniest part of Germany!
Lake Constance
For pure relaxation, there is nothing like a vacation on Lake Constance.
Vacations on Lake Constance are pure bliss. History, spas and outdoor activities are all readily available on “Germany’s Riviera” – as are excellent restaurants and wine cellars.
Swabian Alb
The green, unspoiled Swabian Alb is so important that it has been recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and, in 2015, as the UNESCO Global Geopark Swabian Alb. In 2017, Swabia’s Caves and Ice Age Art were added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Site lists. Some of the world’s oldest carvings, found in the Lonetal (valley of the River Lone) and the Achtal (valley of the Ach), are now in museums. However, you can still explore half a dozen of these remote, atmospheric caves. Other great adventures here include hiking along the 8,000 miles/13,000 km long network of trails in the Upper Danube. Or go climbing and canoeing in the Danube Valley.
Stuttgart Region
Spoil yourself in and around Stuttgart: Visit world-class museums, go for a cycle ride, relax in a hot pool, rich with minerals, or linger over a gourmet meal.
Stuttgart, the capital of SouthWest Germany, has everything from culture and sport to art, restaurants and leisure activities in and around this truly international city.
Great museums, great collections
When it comes to museums, Stuttgart has some of the world’s best. As the region celebrated the 125th birthday of the car here in SouthWest Germany, where better to start than the contemporary buildings that house the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche museums. Then there are the rich collections of art in the National Gallery and the glass cube-like modern art museum overlooking the Schlossplatz (Palace Square). Iconic are the Stuttgart TV tower and the world-class Stuttgart Ballet company. Nearby are more cultural musts: the magnificent Royal Palace in Ludwigsburg, the medieval town of Esslingen and Castle Solitude.