Nature Tourism in Germany
From the mainland right up to the islands, there are amazing cultural and natural landscapes scattered throughout Germany. Many of them won’t be found anywhere else on Earth, are tremendously beautiful and worth exploring all-year round.
Altmühl Valley Nature Park
The Altmühl Valley Nature Park, covering 3,000 square kilometres at the heart of Bavaria, is one of Germany’s largest nature parks. The idyllic riverside scenery is dotted with bizarre rock formations and juniper heathland.
Adventure and exploration are the order of the day at the Altmühl Valley Nature Park. Visitors can go for a bike ride on the family-friendly 166-kilometre-long Altmühl Valley Cycle Route, hike along the Altmühl Valley Panoramic Trail and hop into a canoe on the gently meandering Altmühl. The region is also home to a wealth of cultural treasures, including castles, palaces, churches, abbeys and Roman relics along the Roman Limes UNESCO World Heritage Site. Quarries and fossil museums are ready to take visitors even further back in time if they wish. The Danube Gorge is a spectacular natural wonder that can be admired by boat from Weltenburg Abbey, which is home to the oldest monastery brewery in the world.
Amrum – birdwatching and mudflat tours
The North Frisian island of Amrum is one of the best day trip destinations in the whole of Schleswig-Holstein. The fresh North Sea air, mudflats and a beach that goes on for as far as the eye can see are enough to entice anyone looking for an action-packed holiday or restful break.
Spanning some 20 square kilometres, Amrum island is located right in the heart of the Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park. Kniepsand beach is a characteristic landmark here, stretching out for 10 kilometres in length and spanning up to 1.5 kilometres in width. The great waves off the beach provide the perfect conditions for surfing, sailing and kiteboarding. You can even climb the steps inside the lighthouse and look down on all the sporting action from way up high.
Amrum is also an exciting destination for birdwatchers, with thousands of sea and coastal birds flocking to the island during breeding season. Why not go for a mudflat tour and marvel at all our feathered friends as you walk? Amrum is well worth a visit all year round, with thatched Frisian houses, seafood restaurants and sailors’ taverns providing warm and cosy spots during the winter months.
Arnsberg Forest Nature Park
The Arnsberg Forest Nature Park is one of the most popular holiday destinations within North Rhine-Westphalia. Its extensive forests make it one of the largest continuous wooded areas in the whole of Germany.
This nature park covering a total area of 482 square kilometres between the Möhne and Ruhr Rivers is one of the most beautiful recreation areas on the eastern edge of the Ruhr area. Keen hikers and nature lovers are sure to delight in exploring the unspoiled low mountain landscape complete with springs, branching brooks and dense forests. Special themed trails, such as the Beaver Trail, and water sport activities on Lake Möhnesee provide plenty of opportunity for fun and adventure. One highlight is the magical, mystical Sauerland Forest Route, which covers 240 kilometres from Iserlohn to Marsberg and crosses a large chunk of the nature park.
Baltrum – a sleeping beauty in the North Sea
Baltrum is the smallest of the East Frisian islands, with parts of it belonging to the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park. Tourists on this car-free island in the middle of the Wadden Sea can expect a peaceful oasis of tranquility.
It almost seems as though time has stood still on this sleeping beauty of an island. There’s a beach spanning four kilometres, where children can play and build sandcastles whilst their parents sit back, relax and take in the sea air from one of the many comfy beach chairs. The offshore sandbanks provide the perfect conditions for beginner surfers and kiteboarders to practice their skills at low tide when the waves are minimal. The spa centre has plenty to please wellness fans, who can book some thalassotherapy, a mud or fango wrap and so much more. If you fancy a leisurely stroll, a nice walking tour of the island could be just what you need. The accommodation on offer ranges from holiday apartments to three-star hotels.
Barnim Nature Park
Boasting forests, idyllic lakes and untamed rivers, the Barnim Nature Park is a stunning natural paradise and a relaxing haven just outside of Berlin.
This large conservation area spanning 750 square kilometres across Brandenburg and Berlin stands in stark contrast to the big city. Nature lovers can expect adventure and chance to relax. They can set off for a walk on the 66 Lakes Trail around Berlin and through the Barnim Nature Park or enjoy a bike ride on the Berlin-Usedom Cycle Route that will take them past ever-changing scenery. With its many bodies of water having been formed during the last Ice Age, the region is home to many rare wildlife species, such as kingfishers and grey wagtails. The Schönow Heath to the south of the nature park offers stunning views from the viewing tower and there may even be a chance to spot a fallow deer, a red deer or a mouflon.
Bavarian Forest Nature Park
The Bavarian Forest Nature Park stretches from the Danube Valley to the Grosser Arber peak near the border with the Czech Republic and Austria.
This exceptional nature park covers the area from the Danube Valley to the Arber peaks with their areas of primeval woodland, including the fruit-growing areas near Lalling and Neukirchen. Visitors can experience “Europe’s Green Canopy” at events run by staff at the nature park or on their own journeys of discovery. A few dozen nature experience trails reveal many of nature’s secrets to the curious explorer. A visit to one of the nature park’s six information centres also comes highly recommended. For example, there’s the Nature Park Sonnenhaus in Zwiesel, which is built from renewable resources, and the Eisenstein Border Railway Station, which hosts five interactive exhibitions.
Bavarian Forest National Park
The Bavarian Forest National Park, founded in 1970 as the first national park in Germany, joins with the neighbouring Šumava National Park in the Czech Republic to form the largest continuous area of woodland in Central Europe.
The concept of letting nature run wild is at the heart of the Bavarian Forest National Park. Visitors can explore this natural space, which is left to grow without any human interference, across hiking routes, cycle paths and skiing trails spanning several hundred kilometres. The treetop trail is just one example of the fun adventure routes also available. Whichever route visitors decide to take, a view of the Alps is guaranteed. With its mysterious moors, crystal-clear streams and a glacial lake called the Rachselsee, the wooded low mountain landscape provides the perfect habitat for native animals, including eagle owls, Ural owls, otters and wood grouse. Museums and information centres are available for anyone wishing to learn about the history of the national park or find out some interesting facts and figures.
Berchtesgaden National Park
Stunning mountain scenery, picturesque lakes and lush green forests are the hallmarks of the Berchtesgaden National Park, one of the oldest conservation areas in the Alps.
The only German national park in the Alps is a true paradise for holidaymakers who are loving life and looking for an activity-packed break. No matter what time of year they visit. After taking a tour on one of the footpaths or steep mountain trails, which cover 260 kilometres in total, or taking to the snowy slopes on skis, quaint mountain chalets are the perfect place for a rest. There’s a good chance of spotting an ibex, marmot, golden eagle and other native animals out in the mountains as well as coming across a wealth of plants, some of which are rare. Tourists who like to fly high will be in their element when they go paragliding or take a tour of Mount Watzmann, which reaches a height of 2,713 metres. And anyone feeling a little less ambitious can check out fascinating gorges such as the Wimbachklamm and admire their waterfalls.
Black Forest National Park
The untamed beauty of the vast Black Forest National Park attracts visitors in their swathes. The lush green forests in this nature reserve are just waiting to be explored, showing off the wild side of nature and offering views way into the distance.
This nature reserve covering 10,000 hectares in Baden-Württemberg offers spectacular views long into the distance from its mountains reaching heights of over 1,000 metres. And yet what makes this national park truly special is that nature is left to run wild here. In fact, some areas have been left to develop without any human intervention for more than 100 years. This undisturbed natural setting provides a habitat for the peregrine falcon, the fastest bird in the world, and the pygmy owl, the smallest owl in Europe. Plenty of tours and events keep visitors informed about the forest and its inhabitants. And there are lots of sporting activities on offer too. What better way could there be to enjoy an authentic Black Forest experience than on a hike, bike ride or rafting adventure?
Borkum – a diverse holiday destination in East Frisia
With its coastal climate and pristine natural landscape, Borkum in the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park is a popular choice among tourists. Covering just under 31 square kilometres, Borkum is the largest of the seven East Frisian islands.
Around 30 kilometres from the mainland at Germany’s most north-westerly point, Borkum is a holiday destination with something for everyone. If you’re looking for a health and wellness break, you’ll enjoy indulging in thalassotherapy and breathing in the air, which is low in pollen and rich in iodine. Borkum has plenty of natural highlights too, including the Borkumriff sandbank, which is home to seal colonies. Not to mention the stunning dunes, inland meadows and freshwater pools, where native orchids flower and bloom. If you’re interested in learning about the local history, you can head for the island’s museum or go for a stroll to the Old Lighthouse, which will take you on a tour of the oldest foundations on Germany’s North Sea coast. The high ropes course is a newer addition to the island, boasting spectacular views over the North Sea from 60 different platforms right on the coast.
Bliesgau UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
The Bliesgau UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, situated in the south-east of the Saarland on the border with France, charms visitors with its orchid meadows, beech forests, endangered wildlife and stunning riverside landscape.
Bliesgau is known as the “Tuscany of the Saarland” thanks to its gently rolling hills. A huge proportion of the rare little owls found in the Saarland live in this biosphere reserve and the endangered marsh fritillary butterfly with shimmering orange/brown wings also calls the area home. In Bliesgau, there are also countless chances to admire the orchid, known as the queen of flowers. Culture vultures can rest assured that there is plenty for them to discover in the region, which boasts many relics from the eras of the Roman and Celtic settlements. And there is plenty to tickle connoisseurs’ taste buds, with the culinary culture here ranking amongst the finest in the German- and French-speaking world.
Bourtanger Moor-Bargerveen International Nature Park
The Bourtanger Moor-Bargerveen International Nature Park is situated in what was once the largest continuous area of moorland in Central Europe, which can be found between Emsland, Bentheim and the Dutch province of Drenthe.
The moorland ecosystem consisting of sand, heathland, moors, peat bogs, meadows and grain fields is multi-functional, serving as a habitat for rare flora and fauna, a haven for nature lovers and a place where people can explore nature and discover a veritable cultural treasure trove. This cross-border nature park extends from the west of Lower Saxony into the Netherlands. Covering 140 square kilometres in total, the nature park is home to well-maintained, flat hiking and cycle paths, educational and themed trails, and information centres and museums providing visitors with all kinds of information about the moorland on both sides of the border.
A lifeline through Germany – the Green Belt
A unique natural environment has emerged in the area around the former inner German border, a place where gentle tourism and a culture of remembrance go hand in hand.
500 metres above the Wasserkuppe, the highest peak in the Rhön Mountains, the pilot releases the rope. Below us: the countless peaks of the Kuppenrhön range. When the glider turns, you can look down almost vertically through the plastic pane and spot a meandering strip of land up to 200 metres wide in places: the Green Belt, one of Germany’s largest nature reserves.
Eifel National Park
The Eifel National Park boasts majestic beech forests, gnarled oak woods and babbling brooks. With countless species of flora and fauna to be admired here, there is nowhere better to get close to nature in the whole of western Germany.
At the Eifel National Park in North Rhine-Westphalia, areas where trees were once felled are now being transformed into wild, unspoiled woodland once more. More than 2,170 endangered species of plants and animals call the park their home. Wildcats hunt for mice, beavers build lodges in the clean bodies of water and kingfishers revel in the undisturbed setting of the national park. The natural setting is even protected against light pollution, meaning that visitors to this International Dark Sky Park can look up into space at night and get a beautifully clear view of the starry sky above. Visitors can also follow the Wilderness Trail, go on a guided tour with a ranger or head to the National Park Visitor Centre if they want to find out more.
Düben Heath Nature Park
Nestled in the river landscapes of the Elbe and Mulde, the Düben Heath is a tranquil haven between Leipzig and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Dessau-Wörlitz and Lutherstadt Wittenberg.
The sheer diversity of the Düben Heath is best expressed by the heath highlights, which are special attractions and destinations that include an enchanting moated castle and an old mill. Guided tours, hiking trails and other wildlife activities put native creatures like cranes, deer, ospreys and beavers in the spotlight. Keen hikers can set off on pilgrimage tours along the Luther Trail between Wittenberg, Bad Düben and Torgau. With heathland churches and tranquil spots along the way, there’s plenty of chance for some serious contemplation. Visitors can recharge their batteries by taking advantage of local health and wellness packages, such as herbal relaxation weekends and fasting retreats.
Erzgebirge Mountains/Vogtland Nature Park
This nature park in the south-west of Saxony stretches from Schönberg in Vogtland to Frauenstein in the eastern Ore Mountains. Germany’s highest town, the spa resort of Oberwiesenthal, is situated on the Fichtelberg mountain, which reaches a height of 1,215 metres above sea level.
The Ore Mountains/Vogtland region features areas covered with hedges, rocks and trees as well as moors, mountain pastures, wetlands, forests and old mining tunnels. Rare species of flora and fauna call this area their home, including pygmy owls, black grouse, kingfishers, freshwater pearl mussels, tiger lilies, arnica, gentian and orchids. Hiking trails, cycle paths, bridle paths and ski runs cover hundreds of kilometres through forests and brook valleys. The Schöneck, Klingenthal/Mühlleithen, Carlsfeld/Johanngeorgenstadt, Oberwiesenthal, Seiffen and Cämmerswalde/Holzhau ski resorts thrive thanks to the guarantee of snowy weather in the region.
Fehmarn – Germany’s sunshine isle
With 2,200 hours of sun every year, endless natural beaches along 78 kilometres of coastline, picturesque lakes and rugged cliffs, Fehmarn is a charming holiday destination.
It’s hard to imagine a more relaxing setting than this large island in the Baltic Sea. Spanning some 185 square kilometres, this is one of Germany’s sunniest regions, which has a mild, stimulating climate. If you’re looking for pure relaxation, you can indulge in the spa treatments at the FehMare pool complex or head to the sands of the vast and gently sloping beaches that promise fun for all the family. And if sports holidays are more your thing, you won’t be disappointed either. You can go horse riding, play golf, sail, dive or, at the right time of year, enter the annual Fehmarn Marathon. Head off on a hike to discover fields, meadows, the coastline and more. For example, several hundred species of birds flock to the Wallnau Waterbird Reserve, widely regarded to be one of north Germany’s most precious ecological environments.
Föhr – a Frisian holiday destination with a Caribbean twist
The island of Föhr is located in the north-western part of Schleswig-Holstein. A 50-minute mini cruise from Dagebüll to the ‘Frisian Caribbean’, taking in the Halligen islands on the way, is all it takes to get visitors into the holiday mood.
After all, even the journey takes the tempo down a notch. The ferry glides at a leisurely pace through the Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park, a stunning home to more than 10,000 species of flora and fauna and a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site since 2009. Föhr is not known as the Frisian Caribbean for nothing: Sheltered from the wind by Amrum and Sylt, it is a lush green island where a diverse range of plants flourish. Water sports fans will be in their element along the 15 kilometres of sandy beach to the south of the Wyk ferry port. The island also has a rich history of tradition. You can find out more at the Frisian Museum or experience it for yourself at the annual Biikebrennen celebration that is thought to chase away the winter.
Fichtel Mountain Nature Park
Between the centres of Bayreuth, Hof and Weiden and the Czech city of Cheb, the nature park covers an area of more than 1,000 square kilometres.
A dense network of hiking trails and cycle paths, including the quality-certified Franconian Mountains Trail and the popular River Main Cycle Route, runs through the Fichtel Mountains. Lynx, wood grouse and black woodpeckers can be observed in the wild, whilst the stunning white blooms of the Arctic starflower are typical of this region. The rocky landscape of the Fichtel Mountains takes visitors back in time to explore the geological past of Germany’s most important Medieval mining area. This is highlighted in spectacular fashion by Europe’s largest rock labyrinth near Wunsiedel. There’s plenty to delight culture vultures in this region with its musical attractions and long-standing tradition of porcelain production.
Franconian Forest Nature Park
In the north of Bavaria, on the verdant border with Thuringia, lies the Franconian Forest Nature Park. This upland region boasts stunning views from up high, colourful meadow valleys and magnificent castles.
There are countless adventures to be had in this extensive wooded area boasting vast meadow valleys and mountain ridges rich in biodiversity and dotted with legendary castles thanks to its well-signposted network of hiking trails. Culture vultures are bound to be in their element here too, as they explore the historical Old Town of Kronach and its mighty fortress, the castle ruins up on a mountain ridge in Lichtenberg and the German Steam Locomotive Museum. Active holidaymakers will be thrilled by the bike routes featuring short climbs and leisurely descents, some of which are along the Green Belt, a conservation area on the former border between East and West Germany.
Franconian Heights Nature Park
Nestled between the historical towns of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Feuchtwangen and Ansbach, the Franconian Heights Nature Park brings nature and culture together beautifully.
The Franconian Heights region just outside of Nuremberg is one of the sunniest parts of southern Germany. The diverse landscape that alternates between mixed woodland, streams, dry biotopes and wine-growing land is dotted with cultural gems in the form of castles and palaces. Natural bays and south-facing slopes provide the necessary protection and shelter for a wide range of flora and fauna. Shepherds are tasked with keeping these natural treasures safe by grazing animals in specific areas. The permanent exhibition at the information centre in Colmberg provides information about the various natural habitats and recommends ways to stay entertained in the nature park, such as with tours of the 100-kilometre European Watershed Trail.
Geo-Bergstrasse-Odenwald Nature Park
The charming cultural landscape between the River Rhine, the Odenwald hills and the River Neckar has been shaped by over 500 million years of geological history, diverse natural surroundings and good old-fashioned hospitality.
At the Geo-Bergstrasse-Odenwald Nature Park, rocks, plants and water have fascinating tales to tell, revealing, for example, where primeval horses once lived. Rangers are on hand at the Geo-Nature Park to provide visitors with all kinds of information. And there’s plenty more to learn at the information centres, on the countless themed trails and at the educational installations dedicated to the environment. The area designated a UNESCO Global Geopark is also home to the Messel Pit Fossil Site and Lorsch Abbey, two World Heritage Sites. This is a landscape rich in contrasts: the Bergstrasse region to the west is characterised by historical sites, a mild climate and a tradition of wine-growing, whilst the Odenwald region to the east boasts hills, vast wooded areas and striking valleys.
Franconian Switzerland Nature Park – Franconian Jura
Covering an area of more than 2,300 square kilometres, the quality-certified Franconian Switzerland Nature Park in the Franconian Jura, between the towns of Bamberg, Bayreuth and Nuremberg, is one of the largest nature parks in the whole of Germany.
The Franconian Switzerland Nature Park in the Franconian Jura encompasses the natural landscape of the northern Franconian Alb, with the River Main in the north and the Pegnitz Valley in the south. The idyllic highland scenery is characterised by the White Jura with its chalk cliffs, karstic springs, deep valleys and caves featuring mighty dripstone formations. No other area in Germany beyond the Alps has more cliffs or caves and there is nothing quite like the karst landscape of the Kuppenalb area in the whole of Europe thanks to its dolomite crags and bizarre rock spires. Rare birds of prey find perfect places to nest up in the steep cliff faces.
Hainich National Park
At the Hainich National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage region, world history comes face to face with the miracle of nature. The former military exclusion zone is now the largest unbroken area of mixed deciduous forest in Europe.
The Hainich National Park in Thuringia, between Bad Langensalza and Eisenach, is home to one of Germany’s wild old beech forests. There are so many ways for visitors to explore this ancient woodland. During the winter, a sleigh ride comes highly recommended, whilst the well-signposted hiking trails or the Thiemsburg treetop trail at a height of 44 metres are very inviting during the spring, summer and autumn. Hütscheroda Wildcat Village is another firm favourite, giving visitors a chance to watch the animals eat their breakfast or take in the view of the Rhön Mountains, Wartburg Castle and the Thuringian Forest from a platform at a height of 17 metres.
Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park
The Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park in the north of Germany surrounds a small group of islands located in the Elbe estuary just off the coast of Cuxhaven. The nature reserve encompasses around 12,000 hectares of mudflats.
Three islands just off the coast of Lower Saxony define the landscape of the smallest of Germany’s three Wadden Sea National Parks. These are Neuwerk, which has a population of around 40, the dune island of Scharhörn and the man-made island of Nigehörn. When the tide is out, visitors can go for a hike or carriage ride on the mudflats and spot large colonies of sea birds as they explore the undisturbed nature on and between the islands. The area is rich in culture too and the history of the island of Neuwerk is particularly interesting since it has been linked to the city of Hamburg since 1299. The fortified tower in the Elbe estuary provides an insight into this fascinating past, as it would have once been used as part of the defence against pirates.
Harz National Park
This national park is located in Germany’s most northerly low mountain range. With its mixture of ancient myths and rugged terrain, it is a popular travel destination in Saxony-Anhalt and Lower Saxony all year round.
The summit of Mount Brocken in Saxony-Anhalt at 1,141 metres at the heart of the Harz National Park is often enveloped in mist and has inspired many myths and legends about witches. Legendary forests and mysterious moors can, for example, be explored on the Goethe Trail or the Harz Witches’ Trail – or even crossed on a leisurely journey on the Harz narrow-gauge railway. Whilst keen adventurers can zoom down narrow trails and through rocky passageways on a mountain bike, animal lovers can see red deer, black woodpeckers and wildcats up close during organised feeding sessions and viewings.
Harz Mountains Nature Park and Geopark
The incredible diversity of the Harz Mountains Nature Park, which has also been named a UNESCO Global Geopark, is what gives it that extra-special charm. Situated in Germany’s northernmost highlands, it is a hiker’s paradise with a long-standing tradition of mining.
Relics paying testament to the earth’s turbulent history and the tradition of mining can be spotted at every turn in the Harz Mountains, with examples including Rammelsberg Mine and the Upper Harz Water Management System, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Deciduous forests and river valleys shape the Lower Harz, as described by Heinrich Heine in his travel report called “The Harz Journey”. Castles, palaces and churches reflect the changing faces of the local inhabitants over more than 1,000 years. There are plenty of activities on offer here, including a trip on the Harz narrow-gauge railway and hikes on the network of trails spanning some 8,000 kilometres. Family groups can look forward to the nature park adventure trails and the Nature 2000 information centre at Stolberg Castle.
Heligoland – Germany’s only island in the high seas
The stunning red sandstone cliffs of Heligoland jut out of the water around 70 kilometres from the mainland. The island boasts a unique natural landscape and a mild maritime climate.
Hidden way out in the North Sea, Heligoland is often referred to as Germany’s only island in the high seas, even though this is not strictly true from a geographical or legal viewpoint. Heligoland’s remote location and complete lack of cars mean that the air is virtually free from pollen, which is great news for anyone that suffers from allergies. The neighbouring island of Düne makes for a stunning sunbathing spot.
Tourists on Heligoland can follow themed trails all the way to Lummenfelsen, the nature conservation area with the most breeding birds in the whole of Germany. And there is plenty of flora and fauna to take in on the way too. One delicacy that’s not to be missed is the famous Heligoland lobster, which can be purchased from the heritage-protected lobster huts along the harbour.
Hiddensee – an island of wellness and culture
Boasting endless stretches of white sandy beaches, salt marshes, rugged cliffs and pine forests, Hiddensee is a happy place for many. There are also art galleries, museums, lectures and concerts galore on this island in the Baltic Sea.
Covering just under 19 square kilometres, Hiddensee is located just off the west coast of Rügen in the Baltic Sea. Affectionately known as ‘Söte Länneken’ (sweet little land), this island’s stunning and varied natural landscape in the Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park doesn’t fail to impress visitors. No end of writers and artists have been seeking inspiration on the island for decades. Hiddensee has built up a reputation as a cultural hotspot thanks to all the events going on. Families are free to explore the island on foot, by bike or on horseback. Sea buckthorn is a local delicacy that grows all over Hiddensee and tastes delicious in cakes or juice drinks.
Hohes Venn-Eifel Nature Park
This nature park near the border between Germany and Belgium enchants visitors with its picturesque castles, splendid palaces and beautifully blooming wild daffodils.
The spectacular landscape of the Hohes Venn-Eifel Nature Park, which surrounds the Eifel National Park, features plenty of woodland, remarkable highland moors, dizzying mountain peaks, rivers and lakes. The best way to explore these stunning natural sights on display in North Rhine-Westphalia is on foot or by bike, with pretty pathways including the route following the former Vennbahn railway line and the nearby Eifelsteig Trail. Visitors are taken on a journey back in time as they explore the Stone Age caves, Roman buildings, and castles, palaces and abbeys. Spring is the perfect season for nature lovers to visit, as they will be able to enjoy guided tours of the daffodil fields.
Hoher Fläming Nature Park
This nature park in the south-west of Brandenburg is a hiker’s paradise just outside of Berlin with its historical castles, gently rolling hills, cool streams and vast forests.
This natural landscape is sometimes referred to as “Germany’s smallest mountain range”. Of course, there’s a hint of irony there! The 200-metre Hagelberg hill does, however, offer up a nice panoramic view of the nature park. 10,000 years ago, the melted ice from the glaciation flowed here. And now this is the site of one of Brandenburg’s most important breeding grounds for grassland birds and the habitat of the great bustard. Thousands of Nordic geese and ducks fly over to spend the winter here. The “Rummeln”, a type of dry valley, are a special geological feature and one of the highlights of the 147-kilometre Castles Trail along with the local boulders, clear streams and the region’s four castles.
Holstein Switzerland Nature Park
The hilly countryside dotted with lakes in the east of Schleswig-Holstein can be explored on foot, by bike, by boat or on horseback, whilst picturesque villages and towns entice visitors to stop and stay for a while.
The Holstein Switzerland Nature Park provides breeding and resting points for many aquatic birds such as the great crested grebe and the coot. Keen birdwatchers should head to the Heidmoor area for a glimpse into the world of the corn crake or the Rathjensdorf area to spot the white-tailed eagle. The Kalkberg hill is located at the heart of Bad Segeberg, providing the backdrop for the Karl May Festival. Its underground system of caves is home to more than 20,000 bats. A canoe ride on the Schwentine, the longest river in the nature park, couldn’t be further from boring. The succession of sections of river and lakes keeps visitors entertained until they reach the royal palaces of Plön and Eutin.
Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park
Germany’s newest national park, set at the heart of the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park, boasts beech trees, mystical moors and wildcats against a stunning mountainous backdrop.
Rocky ridges and weathered boulders in the woods give the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park in Rhineland-Palatinate and the Saarland its wild edge. There are so many activities to keep holidaymakers entertained here, including guided tours given by rangers and walks on the Saar-Hunsrück-Steig, a picturesque path spanning 410 kilometres and taking in idyllic lakes, charming valleys and spectacular views. Keen geologists can also embark upon a journey of discovery along the German Gemstone Route. Whilst animal lovers admire the wildcats and wolves in their outdoor enclosures, history buffs can marvel at Celtic relics such as the hillfort in Otzenhausen.
Juist – a magical wonderland in the Wadden Sea
The locals call Juist ‘Töwerland’ in their dialect, which, in its rough translation, makes the island something of a magical wonderland. And you can see where it gets its name from when you admire the 17 kilometres of beach between the Wadden Sea and wild North Sea, which you can taste, smell and hear no matter where you are on the island.
The long East Frisian island of Juist sits just a few kilometres off the mainland, between Borkum and Norderney. Wherever you are on this narrow strip of land in the North Sea, you know you won’t be far from the coast and mudflats. Tourists can marvel at the ebb and flow of the tides and sometimes spot colonies of seals at the east end of the island. There’s no excuse not to stay healthy here – head off on a walk along the mudflats or a bike ride around the car-free island. Or maybe you’d rather have a spa treatment or thalassotherapy? It’s easy to feel at one with the sea and nature on Juist, which has led to an ambitious sustainability target having been set, with the island aiming to be carbon-neutral by 2030.
Jasmund National Park
Natural beauty awaits visitors on the island of Rügen. The chalk cliffs on Rügen’s Jasmund peninsula were enough to inspire painter Caspar David Friedrich around 200 years ago.
The chalk cliffs reaching heights of up to 117 metres are one of the main attractions of this national park in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, which is also home to the ancient beech forests dating back over 700 years that stand on the Stubnitz plateau and are protected by UNESCO. Jasmund provides a habitat for many a species. Protected orchid varieties, such as the lady’s slipper, bloom in the meadows, around 1,000 types of bugs scuttle around in the vast green areas and white-tailed eagles can sometimes be spotted circling in the sky. Visitors can explore the natural surroundings on foot or by bike, with one hiking trail spanning several kilometres and leading straight to the impressive rugged coastline and offering spectacular views of white cliffs, green forests and the deep-blue sea.
Kellerwald-Edersee National Park
The Kellerwald-Edersee National Park, home to vast beech forests, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Water babies and nature lovers are sure to be in their element thanks to Lake Edersee and the beautiful mountain scenery.
The Kellerwald-Edersee National Park in northern Hesse is one of the most popular holiday destinations within the region. Covering a length of 27 kilometres, the crystal-clear waters of Lake Edersee provide the perfect conditions for swimming, sailing and fishing. It is surrounded by more than 50 hills covered by beech trees that are part of the Ancient Beech Forests of Germany UNESCO World Heritage Site. The well-signposted walking routes lead visitors to idyllic brook valleys, dramatic gorges, ancient trees and rare flowers. The Edersee Forest Walk takes visitors even further into the depths of the national park, showing off its wild and untamed side.
Lahn-Dill-Bergland Nature Park
Situated at the heart of Hesse, the Lahn-Dill-Bergland Nature Park is bordered by the Lahn and Dill Rivers. Keen hikers will be in their element here, with some 20 different routes to choose from within the impressive network of premium trails.
Quality-certified loops for half- or full-day trips and the Lahn-Dill-Bergland Trail, which can be divided into a number of day-long sections, take walkers to towering cliffs or along babbling brooks through the charming uplands. And there are plenty of quality-certified cycle paths too, including routes taking many days to cover and suggestions for mountain bike adventures. Bike fans can set off on romantic valley routes or challenging mountain legs, with Lake Aartal, Medieval towns, castles and palaces all high on the list of attractions. The nature park rangers are on hand to teach visitors about the region, providing information on topics such as orchards, medicinal herbs, animal tracks and insects.
Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park
The Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park, situated between Hamburg, Lübeck and the former border between East and West Germany, is home to deep forests, countless lakes, marshland and no end of cultural monuments.
In the hilly landscape shaped by glaciers in the Duchy of Lauenburg, flora and fauna have been left to grow along the former border within Germany without any human intervention. Spanning 474 square kilometres, the nature park features vast wooded areas and more than 40 lakes, including Lake Ratzeburg and Lake Schaalsee amongst the largest. These huge bodies of water are used for leisure and sporting activities by people, whilst they provide a habitat for animals and a resting site for migratory birds. This cultural landscape close to Hamburg is also home to countless monuments, historical relics and masterpieces from the art world. Not to mention the delicious regional cuisine that is served up in local country inns, where special game and fish dishes are bound to be on the menu.
Langeoog – a natural paradise sandwiched between mudflats and the sea
The water tower makes for a stunning landmark on the East Frisian island of Langeoog. With the sandy beach stretching out for 14 kilometres, the dunes towering up to 20 metres tall and the meadows full of flowers, it’s easy to see why this island is a popular holiday destination.
Sandwiched between mudflats and the sea and spanning some 20 square kilometres, Langeoog has always felt the full force of nature. Visitors can head to the water tower, which dates back to 1909, to enjoy stunning views of the island with its protective dunes and natural embankments. A guided tour through the mudflats of the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park will allow you to get close to nature – you may even be lucky enough to spot some herring gulls. Alongside hikes, bike rides and horseback tours, a holiday on Langeoog means surfing, swimming and strolling. And the kids can happily build sandcastles on the beach. You’re in for sun, sand and wind on Langeoog, no matter the season.
Lower Oder Valley National Park
The Lower Oder Valley National Park is the only wetland national park in Germany, boasting remarkable riverside meadow scenery that stretches out for 60 kilometres along the German and Polish banks of the River Oder.
This area in Brandenburg in the north-east of Germany is home to many species of wildlife. Protected birds, such as white-tailed eagles, black storks and aquatic warblers, live here alongside beavers building their dams in the park. More than 40 types of fish and 50 different species of mammal complete this extensive list of fauna. The national park is also a rest and wintering site, making it the backdrop for breath-taking natural spectacles, such as more than 13,000 cranes approaching their roosts. Visitors can experience the magic of nature whilst on a hike or bike ride and tie in a visit to some other attractions, such as the Medieval Stolpe Castle or the historical tobacco barns near Friedrichsthal.
Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park
The Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park on the North Sea coast in Lower Saxony covers the mudflat area between the Ems and Elbe Rivers, including the offshore East Frisian islands.
At the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park, visitors can experience natural spectacles and incredible landscapes, such as the region’s distinctive salt marshes, the steep sandy dunes near Dangast and the “floating bog” near Sehestedt, which is the only remaining outer dyke bog in Germany. The area is home to fascinating sea birds, such as shelducks, and seals. Staff at the Norddeich seal centre take care of little seal pups that have been orphaned. Museums and monuments pay testament to the region’s history and culture, including the Wilhelmshaven Wadden Sea Information Centre and the old lighthouse on the island of Wangerooge.
Müritz National Park
Boasting more than 130 lakes, ancient beech forests and mysterious moors, the Müritz National Park lies to the east of Lake Müritz, which is famed for being the largest lake in the Mecklenburg Lake District in the lowlands of north-east Germany.
This stunningly beautiful natural area is an important breeding ground for large birds that are endangered and have already died out in other areas, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and keen birdwatchers. Whilst out on a bike ride, hike or canoe trip, visitors may be lucky enough to spot white-tailed eagles, ospreys and cranes up close. In fact, there are even hides towards the east of the national park that have been built for this very purpose. The Heinrich Schliemann Museum in Ankershagen, dedicated to the life and work of the eminent archaeologist, is bound to be of interest to many visitors. The town of Waren with its old quarter and steamboat cruises is also well worth a visit.
Lüneburg Heath and Südheide Nature Parks
The Lüneburg Heath and Südheide Nature Parks, situated in the north of Germany in the triangle between Hamburg, Bremen and Hanover, form the largest continuous area of heathland in Central Europe.
The Lüneburg Heath and the neighbouring Südheide heathland in the federal state of Lower Saxony are home to a unique blend of common and bell heather, junipers, herds of Heidschnucke sheep, old sheepfolds, farm buildings and beekeeping huts. The view from Wilseder and Wietzer hill is nothing short of impressive when the purple heather is out in bloom during August and September. But the good news is that the natural world doesn’t disappoint at any time of year here, with ancient forests, striking trees, mysterious moors, bubbling springs, characteristic heathland rivers and stream valleys just waiting to be admired. Not to mention rare and endangered wildlife in many areas.
Nagelfluhkette Nature Park
The Nagelfluhkette Nature Park is located at the point where the Alps begin, with Lake Constance nearby and remarkable geology shaping the landscape. The cultural landscape of this huge conservation area is impressively diverse.
At the point where the Allgäu meets the Bregenz Forest, a stunning cultural landscape has evolved over the centuries, boasting biodiverse alpine meadows, magnificent mountain peaks, rugged gorges, gushing waterfalls and idyllic towns and villages. Many species of flora and fauna have made the varied habitats their home, including golden eagles, Apollo butterflies and Carline thistle. The local rocks are the star of the show at this cross-border nature park, where river pebbles have been cemented together to give the impression that nails have been hammered deep into the rock.
Norderney – a wellness break for fans of thalassotherapy
With untouched natural landscapes in the east and white sandy beaches stretching out for kilometres in the north, Norderney is an exceptional centre for thalassotherapy in the Wadden Sea, a stunning UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.
By the time you are making your way to Norderney, Germany’s oldest North Sea spa resort, you will start to leave all the strains and stresses of everyday life behind you. The second largest of the East Frisian islands doesn’t fail to impress with its beautifully unruly beaches and pristine natural landscapes. No matter what time of year you visit. Spanning 26 square kilometres in total, around 85 percent of the island falls within the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park. But this incredible location doesn’t just appeal to nature lovers. Water sports enthusiasts, sun worshippers, cyclists and hikers will feel right at home here, too. Breaks with a focus on health are a big deal on Norderney, which is the proud home of bade:haus, Europe’s largest thalassotherapy centre.
Peene Valley River Landscape Nature Park
The Peene Valley in the north-east of Germany is unique in Europe and well worth a visit. Nowhere else in Western Europe is there such a dense population of white-tailed eagles, beavers and the like.
The Peene Valley River Landscape Nature Park is home to one of the largest continuous fenland areas in Central Europe. This nature park in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is renowned for its largely unspoiled nature and exceptional biodiversity. It is home to amphibians, reptiles, fish, birds, mammals, countless insects and plant species, some of which are rare. Visitors can explore the river valley on guided experience tours on a solar-powered boat, in a canoe, on hikes across the marshland or by bike. The “Abenteuer Flusslandschaft” tourism provider network is the only German organisation to have won the EDEN Award tourism prize in recognition of its efforts surrounding sustainability.
North/Central Black Forest Nature Park
At the North/Central Black Forest Nature Park, one of the largest in Germany, visitors can experience wild nature at first hand and try typical Black Forest delicacies at the many establishments on site.
The scenery at the nature park is shaped by the cultural landscape typical of the Black Forest, alternating between huge expanses of wild, natural woodland and open meadows and pastures. No end of crucial habitats can be found here. Ice-Age cirque lakes and moors now provide a home for lots of rare wildlife species such as adders, pygmy owls and wood grouse, which have come to be the bird most associated with the Black Forest. The climate within the nature park ranges from Mediterranean in the Baden wine-growing areas to almost Scandinavian at the top of the Hornisgrinde, which reaches a height of 1,164 metres. Active holidaymakers are sure to be in their element here and there is plenty of chance to taste dishes that are typically served up in the local area.
Pellworm – a North Sea haven in the middle of the mudflats
The North Frisian island of Pellworm is situated in the heart of the Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park. Pristine beauty, peaceful tranquillity and plenty of sunshine make this island a hidden gem for anyone in need of a little rest and relaxation.
This vast island in the North Sea spans 37 square kilometres and life here is very much ruled by the tides. If the ebb and flow of the sea allows it, visitors can set off on a tour to explore the mudflats, walking past mussels, lugworms and crabs on their way to the neighbouring Halligen islands. Holidaymakers can feel truly at home here, with the down-to-earth attitude and warm welcome from the locals, the rural charm of Pellworm itself and the overriding sense of peace and quiet leaving visitors to breathe easy. It’s hard not to fall in love with the island, which just so happens to be a romantic location itself. Couples can get married at the lighthouse in Pellworm, with a traditional captain’s ceremony to round off proceedings.
Poel – an island located between three Hanseatic cities
It’s hard to resist Poel with its fresh sea breeze and picturesque landscapes. Unspoilt natural beauty, endless sandy beaches and a charming harbour are all part and parcel of life on the largest Baltic Sea island in Mecklenburg.
The idyllic island of Poel is situated in the triangle between the three Hanseatic towns of Rostock, Wismar and Lübeck. The landscape is rich and diverse, with the rugged cliffs standing in stark contrast to the gently sloping sandy beaches. Special protection is afforded to the salt marshes on Poel and the island of Langenwerder off the coast, where no end of coastal birds flock to breed. There are plenty of water-based activities on offer, such as trips on the passenger ship from the beautiful Kirchdorf Harbour, a spot of traditional fishing on a cutter boat and sporting adventures on pedalos, water skis and more.
Rügen – traditional seaside resorts and world-famous chalk cliffs
Rügen is Germany’s largest island. Spanning more than 900 square kilometres, this island has all of the ingredients for the perfect holiday in abundance. Think beaches that go on as far as the eye can see, untouched natural landscapes and luxurious seaside resorts.
Rügen is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the whole of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Even writer Thomas Mann had a soft spot for the seaside resorts of Binz and Sellin, which still manage to hold on to their nostalgic charm. The same can be said of Racing Roland, a narrow gauge railway linking up the island’s seaside resorts that is now over 100 years old. On top of sandy beaches stretching across 60 kilometres, Rügen also boasts large national parks, world-famous chalk cliffs, sleepy fishing villages and magnificent manor houses. The island attracts more than 100,000 spectators every year for its Störtebeker Festival open-air theatre event in Ralswiek, which is home to a unique natural stage on the banks of the Great Jasmund Lagoon.
Rhineland Nature Park
The Rhineland Nature Park, located to the west of the cities of Cologne and Bonn, boasts varied scenery, cultural diversity and no end of leisure and recreational activities.
Forests, rivers, lakes and volcanic hills alternate with flat patches of countryside and tiny villages. There are nine different natural landscapes just waiting to be discovered here and each of them offers different attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained. In addition to the Baroque Augustusburg and Falkenlust Palaces UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is also a lengthy list of sporting and leisure activities ideal for cyclists, hikers, joggers, skaters and water sports fans. Towards the south of the nature park lies Germany’s third-largest fruit-growing region, where visitors can also find lots of restaurants and farm shops. There is plenty of information available at the nature park’s four visitor centres: Gymnicher Mühle, Friesheimer Busch, Himmeroder Hof and Haus der Natur.
Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park
The rich and diverse natural and cultural landscape of the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park, situated in the area close to the German borders with France and Luxembourg, covers around 2,000 square kilometres in Rhineland-Palatinate and the Saarland.
From the heights of the Hunsrück mountains to the sun-soaked vineyards along the Moselle, Saar, Ruwer and Nahe Rivers, picturesque landscapes have naturally emerged over time. Think river valleys carved deep, moors and magnificent cliff and rock formations featuring shell limestone, red sandstone and slate. Fields of daffodils, arnica, orchids and more, orchards, vast forests and well-structured verges provide habitats for kingfishers, northern emerald dragonflies, wildcats, beavers and deer. Visitors can go hiking on the quality-certified trails and embark upon foodie trips dedicated to wild garlic, mushrooms, apples, potatoes or game.
Saale-Unstrut-Triasland Nature Park and Geopark
In the south of Saxony-Anhalt, between Thuringia and Saxony, lies the Saale-Unstrut-Triasland Nature Park and Geopark. The landscape, culture and history come together here to create a stunning natural setting.
The Nebra Sky Disk is just one of the incredible range of attractions in the region. There’s the wine-growing area with its distinct Mediterranean charm, beautiful examples of nature including 24 varieties of orchid and countless castles, palaces, abbeys and gardens. Having been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 2018, Naumburg Cathedral with its famous Uta statue is right at the heart of the cultural landscape. Everything waiting to be explored at the nature park has close links to geology, as the use of “Triasland” (meaning “Triassic Land”) suggests. Rocks from the Triassic period – red sandstone, shell limestone and keuper – were used as materials for the historical buildings and in the soil used for wine-growing and cultivating a wide variety of plants.
Saxon Switzerland National Park
The ultimate rugged, rocky landscape awaits keen hikers, mountain climbers and nature lovers just a short train ride south from Dresden, on the border with the Czech Republic.
The Saxon Switzerland National Park is the birthplace of free climbing and it’s easy to see why! More than 1,000 free-standing sandstone peaks and over 20,000 rock climbing routes make this the most diverse outdoor climbing location in the whole of Germany. Traditional regulations ensure that recreational climbing and nature conservation can go on side by side, without this stunning natural paradise being harmed in any way. Germany’s only rocky national park also happens to be one of the most spectacular walking regions in Europe, with the 112-kilometre Painter’s Way offering visitors spectacular views, for example. Cyclists can also explore the bizarre rock formations along the Elbe Cycle Route.
Schlei Estuary Nature Park
Anyone looking to get away from it all and enjoy some peace and quiet will be in their element in this naturally beautiful holiday destination in the north of Germany, thanks to its traditional villages, sprawling meadows, idyllic lakes and pleasant hiking trails.
At the northernmost nature park in Schleswig-Holstein, visitors learn to slow down the pace. As they cycle, hike or sail, they are sure to be busy marvelling at the landscape’s unmistakeable charm. Hiking trails take visitors on adventures through fields, forests and meadows until they end up at pretty villages set in the Schlei region or attractions such as the Haithabu Viking Museum. Secluded swimming bays and natural beaches are perfect spots for a well-earned extended break. As far as keen hikers are concerned, the 109-kilometre North Sea-Baltic Trail is bound to be one of the highlights, whilst cyclists tend to love the Baltic Coast Cycle Route and 15 themed tours with clear signposting. Visitors can always try hopping onto a canoe or sailing boat if they want to appreciate the nature park from a new angle.
Schwalm-Nette Nature Park
The Schwalm-Nette Nature Park is a popular holiday destination for people from the towns along the Rhine, Ruhr and Meuse Rivers and the Netherlands, thanks to its vast wooded areas, moors, lakes, heaths and meadows.
Nine premium footpaths lead hikers on adventures with a focus on nature trails. This water wonderland offers spectacular views of magical waterscapes and sporty types can sail, swim and take a canoe out on the River Niers as well as walking and cycling. On top of all that, the nature park has plenty to capture the attention of anyone interested in culture. There are water mills, castles, palaces and stately homes, historical town centres and museums galore, including the Flax Museum in Wegberg and the Lower Rhine Open-Air Museum in Grefrath. The nature park’s three visitor centres in Wachtendonk, Wildenrath and Brüggen host informative exhibitions on nature and the surrounding scenery.
Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park
The Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park is part of the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest continuous area of mudflats in the world. It never fails to amaze visitors with its sand dunes, beaches and charming animal residents.
This remarkable national park, which also doubles up as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, in Germany’s northernmost state of Schleswig-Holstein offers plenty of chance for adventure and exploration. Visitors can take walks through the salt marshes and admire the coastal setting as they watch out for birds whilst on a bike ride. The small inhabited Halligen islands in the middle of the mudflats are just a boat ride away. And, with a bit of luck, visitors may be able to catch a glimpse of some common seals, grey seals or porpoises there. A walk along the mudflats with an expert tour guide is a must and a great way of getting to know tiny locals, such as starfish, snails, mussels and lugworms.
Soonwald-Nahe Nature Park
The Soonwald-Nahe Nature Park extends from the heights of the Hunsrück hills, known for their harsh beauty, to the gently sloping vineyards of the sun-soaked Nahe Valley, encompassing the babbling brooks of the Soonwald.
The nature park is home to unspoiled light deciduous forests, which stand alongside blossoming forest meadows, moors, orchards, meandering streams and riverside meadows. Dry-stone walls and fallow vineyards on the slopes alongside the River Nahe provide habitat for wildlife species that thrive in warmer climes. Ancient walls hidden in the woods, castles and palaces pay homage to the Middle Ages, but the Celts and Romans once called this region their home too. The Soonwaldsteig Premium Hiking Trail and other hiking routes and cycle paths make the Soonwald-Nahe Nature Park a haven for active holidaymakers. Meanwhile, visitors to the spa resorts of Bad Kreuznach, Bad Münster am Stein-Ebernburg and Bad Sobernheim are sure to find the rest and relaxation they crave.
Siebengebirge Nature Park
The 40 volcanic peaks, vast beech forests, vineyards and views of the Rhine Valley are what gives the Siebengebirge hills their charm. And it is here that Siegfried supposedly slayed the dragon according to the Nibelung saga.
The Siebengebirge Nature Park extends from the area surrounding the city of Bonn to Bad Honnef. It may be one of the smallest nature parks in the whole of Germany, but it is home to a wide range of geological formations, flora and fauna. The largest continuous area of beech and oak woodland within the Rhineland, orchards, vineyards, cliffs and rocky outcrops make for a stunning backdrop for hikes in the great outdoors. The attractions here include Heisterbach Abbey, the Neo-Gothic Drachenburg Castle, which is also home to the Museum of German Nature Conservation, the Siebengebirge Museum, Konrad Adenauer House and the Drachenfels hill with the oldest cog railway in the world.
Southern Black Forest Nature Park
The Southern Black Forest is one of the most beautiful recreation areas in Germany, boasting spectacular views from tall peaks, traditional local farms and dense woodland. This captivating blend of nature, culture and tradition is not to be missed.
Germany’s largest nature park is situated in the area near the borders with France and Switzerland. It extends to Triberg with its famous waterfalls in the north, the High Rhine in the south, the source of the River Danube in the east and the city of Freiburg in the west. The scenery typically switches between the open countryside and dense woodland scattered with farms and villages. Natural havens, including moors and cliffs, are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The Feldberg is the highest peak (1,493 metres), providing the perfect conditions for hiking, mountain biking and walking in snowshoes. The massive lakes are a sight to behold and the dramatic Wutach Gorge is a major highlight in the area.
Spiekeroog – a lush island that dreams are made of
Spiekeroog is a lush green island in the heart of the North Sea, where visitors are treated to pristine nature, vast beaches and a view of the seemingly never-ending sea. This is the perfect place to slow down the pace and recharge those internal batteries.
Sandwiched between the neighbouring islands of Langeoog and Wangerooge, Spiekeroog in the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park is surprisingly green thanks to its abundance of oaks and black pines. During the summer months, the purple of lavender is added to the colour palette, whilst the sea buckthorn brings a splash of orange in the autumn. And all of this plays out in front of an ever-changing dune backdrop. The wellness treatments and clean air make the island a popular choice for health fanatics too. And why not enjoy an authentic North Sea experience? Take a boat trip to see the seal colonies, enjoy a delicious meal at a seafood restaurant or sip on a cup of East Frisian tea (complete with “Kluntje” rock sugar) in a cosy tea room.
Stechlin-Ruppiner Land Nature Park
The landscape at the heart of the Stechlin-Ruppiner Land Nature Park has more or less stayed the same since the Brandenburg writer and hiking enthusiast Theodor Fontane described it at the end of the 19th century.
Beech forests and crystal-clear lakes are the stars of the show across the Stechlin-Ruppiner Land Nature Park, which spans an area of 680 square kilometres in the north of Brandenburg, just 60 kilometres from Berlin. There are more than 150 lakes here, including many of the clear-water variety. The Great Stechlin Lake, which is up to 69 metres deep, is the largest and most important of all the lakes in the North German Plain. Visitors can enjoy canoe adventures and steamboat cruises on the nature park’s lakes, with the option of departing from places such as Rheinsberg, Fürstenberg/Havel and Neuruppin. Keen hikers can walk around the lakes or rise to the challenge of the 250-kilometre Ruppiner Land Circular Trail.
Steigerwald Nature Park
The Steigerwald Nature Park is full of forests, meadows and vineyards along with towns and villages that are home to cultural gems. The Steigerwald Panorama Tour is a quality-certified hiking trail that takes visitors on a journey to the region’s most beautiful spots.
The south of the Steigerwald is dotted with lone mountains, separated from one another by meadow valleys, where rare plants and animals can be found. Further to the north, an almost uninterrupted mountain crest extends as far as Zabelstein Mountain on the northern edge of the nature park. Here, visitors are sure to be wowed by a magnificent view of the region of Franconia. The many small ponds within the mountainous setting make it a paradise for birds and dragonflies. Vast beech forests featuring mighty trunks fill the space between the Zabelstein Mountains and Ebrach, home to a Cistercian abbey dating back to 1127 that holds artistic treasures of national significance.
Swabian-Franconian Forest Nature Park
The Swabian-Franconian Forest Nature Park has something for everyone, including meadows and vineyards with Mediterranean charm, rugged ravines in tranquil forests and the Roman Limes World Heritage Site.
Visitors are treated to all kinds of adventures out in nature and cultural experiences just outside of Stuttgart. They can roam through forests and fields, admire the beautiful blossoms in the orchards, marvel at cliffs and caves or journey back in time as they learn about history. The extensive network of hiking trails will appeal to keen walkers, with highlights including the St. James Pilgrimage Way and the Mill Trail. History buffs can discover the world of the Ancient Romans at the Roman Limes UNESCO World Heritage Site and find out more about traditional craftsmanship at the historical flour mills, sawmills and oil presses. And foodies can taste delicious dishes produced locally through the “Naturparkteller” initiative.
Szczecin Lagoon Nature Park
The Szczecin Lagoon Nature Park is situated in the north-east of Germany on the border with Poland. Vast forests, old cultural landscapes and the unspoiled coastline dotted with lagoons make this an attractive holiday destination.
At the Szczecin Lagoon Nature Park, tranquil pine forests stand in contrast to the beech-covered terminal moraine landscape of the Brohmer hills. Hidden moors and wetlands can be found in the nature park alongside lakes, peat areas and waterways. Given the diversity of the habitat here, it should come as no surprise that visitors are likely to catch sight of lesser spotted eagles, cranes, beavers and otters. As well as several hundred kilometres worth of cycle paths and hiking trails, the region can also be explored on bridle paths. Luckily, there are plenty of riding schools and stables nearby. Plus, there is a whole host of activities to be enjoyed at the marinas and landing stages found on the lagoon and the Randow, Uecker and Zarow Rivers.
Sylt – the Queen of the North Sea
The largest of the North Frisian islands is a popular destination among foodies and water sports fans. Located just off Schleswig-Holstein’s North Sea coast, Sylt has plenty to offer holidaymakers with wellness on their mind.
When you picture Sylt, imagine some 40 kilometres of sandy beaches to the west, the vast Wadden Sea to the east and vibrant spa resorts, such as Westerland and Wenningstedt, boasting no end of wellness treatments. This ‘Queen of the North Sea’ in the Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park covers 99 square kilometres, making it Germany’s fourth largest island. The Hindenburg Dam causeway provides direct links to the mainland by car or train. Sailors (including some international pros) and golfers are just as keen to visit Sylt as nature lovers, who are sure to revel in the fact that half of all of the island’s land is registered as a protected area. Foodies and night owls will also love all that Sylt has to offer, too.
TERRA.vita Nature Park and Geopark
Visitors to the TERRA.vita UNESCO Global Geopark soon get to grips with the geological highlights of Germany’s northernmost highland area – no matter whether they are active holidaymakers, geology buffs or simply in need of some rest and relaxation.
This nature and geopark spanning 1,550 square kilometres boasts a wide variety of landscapes and many fascinating geological fault lines. This creates an impressively detailed geological mosaic effect that has resulted in the area being designated a UNESCO Global Geopark. Visitors have plenty of opportunities to experience nature and the earth’s history at first hand. Museums reveal all about unique geological features, whilst the treetop trail in Bad Iburg encourages adventurers to look at the park from a different angle. On top of all that, there’s plenty of chance to recharge those batteries at TERRA.vita by paying a visit to the health resorts and spas as well as culturally and historically significant attractions.
Taunus Hills Nature Park
The Taunus Hills Nature Park just outside Frankfurt is the second largest nature park in Hesse and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. This comes as no surprise given the wide range of activities on offer.
Covering almost 1,350 square kilometres in total, the park provides the perfect conditions for native flora and fauna to thrive. Visitors to the Taunus Hills Nature Park can go on hiking, climbing, cycling or canoe adventures. During the winter months, they can enjoy a spot of sledging and skiing, with plenty of ski runs and cross-country skiing trails to choose from. It’s hard to imagine an area more diverse than this one thanks to the Upper Taunus slopes, the Taunus Ridge to the north, the view of Frankfurt’s skyline, the historical fort of Saalburg and the tranquil River Lahn that flows up to it. A special train, the Taunusbahn, transports visitors directly to the nature park from Frankfurt.
Thuringian Forest Nature Park
Secluded mountain forests, meadows in bloom, mysterious moors, springs and streams are just waiting to be explored by holidaymakers at the Thuringian Forest Nature Park. The park is home to the 170-kilometre Rennsteig trail, which is the oldest long-distance hiking route in Germany.
Drivers wishing to explore can follow the 450-kilometre Thuringian Forest Nature Park Route, which passes through remarkable countryside scenes and takes in attractions such as the magnificent Wartburg Castle, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the region of Oberhof, which is known for its links with water sports. The Fairy Grottoes in Saalfeld enchant visitors with their colourful stalactites and underground lakes. And the Schwarza Valley Panorama Trail invites tourists to go on a hiking adventure and enjoy spectacular views along the way. The park is home to 13 visitor centres that explain the history of the countryside and provide information about attractions and activities, including creative pursuits.
Teutoburg Forest/Egge Hills Nature Park
The Teutoburg Forest/Egge Hills Nature Park, the largest nature park in North Rhine-Westphalia, features picturesque highlands, tranquil nature, remarkable landmarks and no end of cultural and historical highlights.
The main attractions include the Hermann monument and the legendary Externsteine rock formation rising up from the ground. Plus, visitors can set off on tours of the many historical castles, abbeys and old town centres with half-timbered buildings. The forests in the nature park contain various types of beech and spruce trees. And there are moors, dry grasslands and heathland too, along with all the vegetation that would usually be expected to grow upon them. Undisturbed areas of the countryside provide refuge for rare animals and wildlife that is sensitive to disruption, including black storks, eagle owls, peregrine falcons and wildcats.
Thuringian Slate Mountains/Upper Saale River Nature Park
Situated between the forests of the Rennsteig and the castles alongside the River Saale, the Thuringian Slate Mountains/Upper Saale River Nature Park provides a picture-perfect setting for an unforgettable holiday.
Small towns and villages dotted with blue slate houses and visitor mines are testament to the local mining tradition. Several themed routes and guided hikes allow visitors to explore the nature park with its dense wooded areas and mountains reaching heights of almost 800 metres. Some are even lucky enough to spot a rare dipper and other wildlife along the way. The “Thuringian Sea” boasting huge reservoirs in the Saale Valley is a popular destination for active holidaymakers and day-trippers, whilst the “Land of a Thousand Ponds” provides a resting point for migratory birds and a habitat for many species of aquatic birds, fish and other creatures.
Ummanz – Rügen’s little sister
Ummanz is home to charming fishing villages and untouched natural landscapes. Rügen’s little sister island in the Baltic Sea has a unique atmosphere of peace and tranquillity that is perfect for tourists in need of some rest and relaxation.
Spanning some 20 square kilometres, Ummanz is linked to Rügen by a long bridge. The pastures, meadows and farmland on this extremely flat island are only just more than three metres above the lagoon waters of the larger of the two neighbouring islands. Located in the Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park, Ummanz is surrounded by lots of other small islands, where visitors can happily watch herons, geese, cormorants and eagles in peace. Waase, the largest village on the island, is home to a church that is well worth a visit despite not looking at all special from the outside. Inside, you will be wowed by a beautifully carved altar that was originally created for the Hanseatic town of Stralsund in Antwerp in 1520.
UNESCO Berchtesgadener Land Biosphere Region
Germany’s only Alpine biosphere reserve is the ideal destination for action-packed holidays and restful breaks, thanks to its unspoiled natural surroundings and picturesque cultural landscape.
Boasting magnificent peaks, fragrant Alpine meadows, vast mountain and riverside forests, crystal-clear streams, lakes and moors, the UNESCO Berchtesgadener Land Biosphere Region located between Watzmann and Salzach is home to a wide range of habitats in the Alps and their foothills, where marmots, golden eagles and gentian flowers can be found. Wildlife surrounds human life, which has shaped this countryside in the south-east of Upper Bavaria. Educational trails and themed walks provide information about the region, whilst relics from the area’s rich cultural history can be admired at every turn. Farm shops and weekly markets offer visitors a wide range of regional food, drink and handicrafts.
UNESCO Hamburg Wadden Sea Biosphere Reserve
The UNESCO Hamburg Wadden Sea Biosphere Reserve – the smallest of the three Wadden Sea biosphere reserves – in the north of Germany surrounds a small group of islands located in the Elbe estuary just off the coast of Cuxhaven.
The nature reserve includes the car-free yet inhabited island of Neuwerk, the dune island of Scharhörn and the man-made island of Nigehörn. Visitors who head off to explore the mudflats can search for amber and watch large colonies of various species of tern, a seabird usually found near the sea, rivers or wetlands. Horse-drawn carriages through the mudflats are absolutely thrilling as are boat rides with guided tours dedicated to the birds, salt marshes and mudflats. Originally a sandbank, Scharhörn attracts visitors in their swathes mainly thanks to its colonies of sea birds. Much like the bird island of Nigehörn, which is closed off to visitors, Scharhörn never fails to astound people with its huge areas of untouched nature.
UNESCO Elbe Riverside Biosphere Reserve
As well as flowing through the cities of Dresden and Hamburg, the River Elbe meanders through stunning natural and cultural landscapes boasting pristine wetlands, white sandy beaches and wooded hills.
The UNESCO Elbe Riverside Biosphere Reserve has four zones stretching from Saxony-Anhalt to Schleswig-Holstein. There’s the broad glacial valley with inland dunes and steeply sloping banks in the south and the Elbe Valley wetlands with gnarled trees and vast wooded areas in the north. The wildlife in the area is just as varied – cranes, wild geese, white-tailed eagles and beavers are in their element here. Holidaymakers can best explore the natural river landscape from the water on a boat trip or canoe adventure. Back on dry land, there are plenty of cycle routes and footpaths, including the 840-kilometre Elbe Cycle Route between Bad Schandau and Cuxhaven.
UNESCO Lake Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve
The border area in the west of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania found itself in a deep sleep for a number of decades. Nature has been allowed to run wild here, making this an excellent stopping point for thousands of migratory birds every year.
The star of the show at the UNESCO Lake Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve located between Hamburg, Lübeck and Schwerin is the lake, spanning 24 square kilometres and complete with islands, peninsulas, bays and vast reedbeds. And the area surrounding the lake is just as diverse as the body of water itself. Here, 150 kilometres of hiking trails and cycle paths guide visitors through a mosaic of forests, moors and wetlands, pastures and fields, sleepy villages and idyllic little towns. The lake was the site of the border inside the country for 40 years. These days, soft tourism goes hand in hand with the protection of eagles, cranes, otters and kingfishers.
UNESCO Lower Saxony Wadden Sea Biosphere Reserve
The vast expanses of the UNESCO Lower Saxony Wadden Sea Biosphere Reserve stretch along the North Sea coast and out to sea to a line just the other side of the East Frisian islands.
The unique ecosystem here is defined by the ebb and flow of the tides, with the area where land meets sea offering all kinds of habitat for many species of wildlife. Thousands of birds flock to the mudflats and salt marshes to find food, whilst common and grey seals bask on the sandbanks. Behind the dykes lies a cultural landscape shaped by man over the centuries, as revealed by the countless man-made hills, vast areas of reclaimed land, no end of water engineering systems, dykes spanning kilometres and herds of grazing sheep. Visitors can get to grips with the unique setting of the Wadden Sea by bike or on foot.
UNESCO Rhön Biosphere Reserve
The stunning highland landscape of the Rhön Mountains lies at the heart of Germany, boasting diverse scenery and offering visitors the chance to go gliding, get stuck into water sports and visit a dark sky park.
Known as the “land of endless horizons”, the natural paradise in the area where Bavaria, Hesse and Thuringia meet has no end of routes for keen hikers and cyclists to check out, taking in orchards, fields and happily grazing Rhön sheep. Keen gliders head up Mount Wasserkuppe, Hesse’s highest mountain and the birthplace of gliding activities, whilst kayaking fans can admire the scenery from flowing rivers untouched by human influences. Star spotters and astronomy fans will be in their element here too, as the Rhön conditions are perfect for a clear view up into space.
UNESCO Palatinate Forest-North Vosges Biosphere Reserve
Mighty pinnacles and romantic castle ruins, not to mention the contrast between vast forests and sprawling vineyards, are what make this biosphere reserve along the border between Germany and France unique.
The UNESCO Palatinate Forest-North Vosges Biosphere Reserve is home to a wide range of plant and animal species amongst its light-flooded pine forests, chestnut trees, imposing sandstone cliffs and almost 150 castles and ruins. Germany’s largest continuous woodland area is the perfect habitat for the likes of the lynx, wildcat and peregrine falcon. The mild climate here, in which wine, almonds and (tropical) fruits thrive, sets the scene for no end of activities guaranteed to make any holiday fun. More than 1,000 kilometres of quality-certified hiking trails, climbing routes on the red sandstone formations of the Wasgau hills and the Palatinate Forest mountain bike park hold the promise of outdoor adventures galore.
UNESCO Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea and Halligen Islands Biosphere Reserve
UNESCO recognised the Wadden Sea National Park on the west coast of Schleswig-Holstein as a biosphere reserve back in 1990. The five inhabited Halligen islands were added as a development zone in 2005.
The ebb and flow of the tides define the Wadden Sea and the small marsh islands (which can’t be found anywhere else in the world), with large mudflat areas being flooded twice a day and the water often then disappearing again. Visitors can explore this fascinating habitat on guided tours of the mudflats, giving them the chance to wander about on the seabed and spot lugworms, cockles and crabs. Ships are also on hand to transport people to visit the seal colonies. It’s business as usual on the traditional Halligen islands of Gröde, Hooge, Langeness, Nordstrandischmoor and Oland. The flooding process is totally normal for the residents of the Halligen islands (of whom there are just under 300), who live in houses on man-made mounds of earth shaped like hills to be safe.
UNESCO Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve
When the glaciers melted 10,000 to 15,000 years ago, Brandenburg’s Schorfheide was left behind with a richly segmented terrain that could be used as a textbook for the Ice Age.
The sparsely populated land, vast forests juxtaposed with open countryside and countless bodies of water provide habitats for rare flora and fauna. Beavers, otters and 16 of the 22 species of bat found in Germany live in the Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve along with white-tailed and lesser-spotted eagles, ospreys, black storks and cranes. Plus, white storks can be spotted in almost every village in the local area. The countryside has also been shaped by centuries of human cultivation. The fortified enclosures of former places of worship, stately homes and forest villages with half-timbered houses delight visitors just as much as Chorin Abbey, a landmark of the Brick Gothic style.
UNESCO South-East Rügen Biosphere Reserve
At the UNESCO South-East Rügen Biosphere Reserve, visitors are greeted by a diverse coastal landscape boasting sandy beaches for as far as the eye can see, lagoons cutting deep inland, cliffs, salt marshes and beech forests.
Visitors to the biosphere reserve in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania are sure to be wowed by the diversity of the landscapes here, with the coastline featuring white sandy beaches and steep banks. Huge boulders – relics from the Ice Age – and fossilised mussels and sea urchins offer fascinating insights into the earth’s history. As a cultural landscape, the biosphere reserve has been shaped by people since the Mesolithic period. Nature lovers will surely appreciate how pristine the island of Vilm is. And if they want to explore, they’ll have to go on a guided hike. The biosphere reserve is also making its mark when it comes to biodiversity, with rare bee species making a home here alongside grey seals and orchids.
UNESCO Spree Forest Biosphere Reserve
A landscape unique to Central Europe can be found 100 kilometres to the south-east of Berlin – the Spree Forest, a water meadow setting that has managed to stay largely natural despite centuries of human intervention.
The charm of the UNESCO Spree Forest Biosphere Reserve comes down to its landscape, reminiscent of a park and featuring a mosaic of meadows, fields and forests with an impressive network of waterways. This diversity created throughout generations of cultivation gives rise to a varied wildlife kingdom and provides habitats for rare creatures like black storks, otters and beavers. The customs and traditional costumes of the Slavic Sorbs/Wends living here are fascinating and the villages are not to be missed with their typical log cabins and kitchen gardens. Visitors can really get to grips with their surroundings here on a one-day or multiple-day trip on a bike, in a canoe or on a traditional Spree Forest barge.
UNESCO Swabian Alb Biosphere Reserve
Imposing natural beauty, cultural heritage, distinctive geological features and historical sites await visitors at the UNESCO Swabian Alb Biosphere Reserve.
Around 40 kilometres south-east of Stuttgart, the capital of the state of Baden-Württemberg, the biosphere reserve stretches from the foothills of the Swabian Alb to the Danube in the south, encompassing the steep Albtrauf escarpment and the Alb plateau. Protected natural oases, cultural and historical treasures and distinctive geological features are amongst the highlights of the biosphere reserve. The best way to explore the region is by bike, on foot or on a guided tour led by one of the biosphere ambassadors. Plus, long canoe trips are available in the winding Lauter Valley. Local restaurants serve up regional culinary specialities with a focus on Swabian haute cuisine.
UNESCO Thuringian Forest Biosphere Reserve
From hiking and skiing along the mountain ridges, peaceful strolls and sporty Nordic walking to culture-focused holidays and wellness breaks, there is something to keep everyone entertained in the Thuringian Forest.
All year round, the UNESCO Thuringian Forest Biosphere Reserve has so much to offer. Active holidaymakers are sure to be excited by the option of climbing up Thuringia’s tallest tower, setting off on a mountain bike adventure or getting stuck into some winter sports at the heart of the Thuringian Forest. In the meantime, culture vultures will delight in walking in the footsteps of August Trinius, Herbert Roth and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Traditional craftsmanship and customs are on display in the small museums and glassblowing studios throughout the mountainous area. And the Schwarze Crux and Volle Rose visitor mines take explorers underground to check out relics of times gone by. The comprehensive package of wellness treatments for health and relaxation makes holidays in the area complete!
Upper Danube Nature Park
The highland scenery of the Upper Danube Nature Park is characterised by its rugged limestone cliffs dating back to the Jurassic period, mixed woodland and the vast Alb plateau.
The nature park covers an area of around 1,600 square kilometres along the transverse valley. The Danube Sink is a remarkable geological phenomenon located between Immendingen and Tuttlingen-Möhringen. Here, the waters of the Danube flow through the limestone underground, whilst the river bed itself remains partially dry for up to 200 days of the year. Boasting some wonderfully unique habitats, the nature park is home to a wide range of rare flora and fauna. The lynx is one species that has been living here for many years now. Visitors can be at one with nature and explore on hikes, bike rides, climbing adventures and canoe trips.
UNESCO Upper Lusatian Moorland Biosphere Reserve
The UNESCO Upper Lusatian Moorland Biosphere Reserve is the only biosphere reserve in Saxony and one of the largest areas of pondland in Germany.
The nature reserve at the heart of an ancient cultural landscape in the east of Saxony covers more than 350 ponds in total, which are nestled amongst dune forests, river meadows, stark farmland, floodplains and heathland. The biosphere reserve features a remarkably diverse range of habitats for rare flora and fauna, such as otters, white storks and white-tailed eagles. Visitors can happily explore the heathland and ponds by taking to the network of cycle routes, footpaths and long-distance hiking trails. Organic markets encourage visitors to fall in love with the local area, with regional producers on hand to sell their fresh produce. What’s more, visitors can gain an insight into the culture of the Sorbian folk living locally.
Usedom Island Nature Park
At the Usedom Island Nature Park, popular seaside resorts on wide sandy beaches are juxtaposed with mighty steep banks, lakes surrounded by hill ranges, flat moorland and dunes.
The nature park is known for its wide variety of habitats within a restricted space. Whilst the east of the island features hills towering up to 70 metres high, lakes, the largest lowland moor in the area known as the “Switzerland of Usedom” and around ten kilometres of cliffs, visitors in the north are treated to flatter terrain with marshy lowlands and vast areas of dunes covered in pine trees. There are also lagoons with tranquil bays and traditional old fishing villages just waiting to be explored in the nature park. Reeds stretch out for kilometres along the bank of the Peenestrom strait, which separates the island from the mainland. Fish and birds make the most of this habitat for breeding, eating and resting.
Usedom – a sun-drenched island in the Baltic Sea
Usedom combines the traditional spa resort feel with stunning nature. To be precise, holidaymakers can expect to find 42 kilometres of fine white sandy beaches and beautiful natural landscapes featuring footpaths and cycle paths covering several hundred kilometres.
Usedom in the Baltic Sea is Germany’s second largest island and it is treated to a surprising amount of sunshine. Some visitors come to the island to enjoy the sea and sand, whilst others prefer the Achterland outback and choose to explore it on long hikes or bike rides. The historical seaside resorts of Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf and Bansin boast a special charm with their piers and spectacular coastal architecture. There is plenty of accommodation to choose from, including luxury hotels right by the sea, friendly guest houses and barges. Culture vultures are in for a treat, as the island has a calendar packed with classical music, cabaret, literature and theatre.
Vulkaneifel Geopark and Nature Park
Under the towering heights, dense forests, crystal-clear streams, round lakes, fragrant meadows and pretty little villages standing nicely above the surface, mighty forces bubble away in the Volcanic Eifel.
The Volcanic Eifel has been shaped by fire and water and is now the site of around 350 volcanoes of all shapes and sizes, volcanic craters, lava flows and no end of mineral and carbonated springs. Sandstones, tropical reefs and mighty marine deposits tell tales of the earth’s history that date back even further. All of this has earned the Volcanic Eifel a reputation as a valuable area of natural heritage. It has even been designated a European Geopark, making it part of the Global Geopark Network supported by UNESCO. Geological museums explain the scientific phenomena at play, whilst carefully selected cycle paths and hiking trails reveal the treasures of this fascinating landscape.
Wangerooge – a spa resort in the Wadden Sea
Wangerooge is a health resort and spa in the North Sea. Situated at the heart of Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park, the island’s landscape features beaches, dunes and salt marshes. Tourists can rest assured that relaxation is par for the course here.
Wangerooge is the second smallest of the seven East Frisian islands and the most easterly of them all. There are no cars on the island, which can be explored on a boat at the harbour or on a train at the village train station, with the railway dating back more than 100 years. The long beach is dotted with brightly coloured beach chairs for relaxing during the summer months and there are plenty of shops, hotels and restaurants to check out, too. The island is ideal for families, active tourists and anyone looking to relax. Take your pick from beach volleyball, windsurfing, sandcastle building or health and wellness treatments at the spa facilities, where visitors can recharge their batteries and restore their inner peace.
Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park
The Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park is the largest nature reserve on the Baltic coast. The landscape of cliffs, dunes, spits and lagoons stretches from the Darss-Zingst peninsula to the island of Rügen.
The national park is named after the lagoons, or shallow bays cut off from the Baltic Sea, that provide a unique habitat. Visitors can explore them on boat trips and discover the coastline, forests, important historical salt marshes and vantage points, such as Pramort and Hohe Düne, when they are walking around the park. The Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park is known the world over as the largest roosting spot for cranes in all of Europe, with some 30,000 cranes arriving here in the autumn each year. The National Park Centre on Hiddensee is a wonderful mine of information on the conservation area.
Weserbergland Nature Park
Nestled in the northern highlands of Lower Saxony, the Weserbergland Nature Park is shaped by the course of the River Weser, vast forests and spectacular views.
Peaks towering up to 440 metres and steep, craggy cliffs are covered with rare lichens, mosses and flowering plants. The best way to explore the natural landscape at the Weserbergland Nature Park is on a hike, bike ride or water tour. Daring climbers will be in their element here too. The quality-certified Weserbergland Hills Trail and Ith Hils Trail are exceptional routes and themed trails are available too. Visitors can embark on plenty of adventures on the water too by hopping on a passenger ship or in a canoe. The main attractions along the River Weser include the Buildings from the Weser Renaissance period.
Westhavelland Nature Park
The Westhavelland Nature Park to the west of Berlin is defined by its waters, especially those of the River Havel with its distinctive lowlands. The night sky here is nothing short of impressive either, as it doesn’t get much darker anywhere else in Germany.
Boasting meadows, forests and lakes, the Westhavelland acts as an important resting point for Nordic migratory birds and a habitat for endangered flora and fauna. Wading and aquatic birds, beavers, otters, white-tailed eagles and red kites are likely to be spotted here alongside rare great bustards. The brightly blooming wetlands and boggy lowlands of the Lower Havel Lowlands define the picturesque riverside landscape, which provides the perfect setting for a canoe trip, houseboat holiday or passenger ship cruise. The Havel region’s idyllic villages are well worth a visit. Milow also just so happens to be home to the nature park’s visitor centre. A trip to Rathenow’s Old Town also comes highly recommended. At Germany’s first dark sky park, visitors can admire the remarkable sights of the dark starry sky above.
Wildeshauser Geest Nature Park
The Wildeshauser Geest Nature Park near the cities of Bremen and Oldenburg is the largest nature park in Lower Saxony and home to a diverse range of culture and countryside settings.
The best way for active holidaymakers to explore the biodiverse mixed woodland, avenues, fields lined with hedgerows, sand dunes, moors and heathland is by bike or on foot. Multi-day tours for cyclists reveal all that the landscape has to offer, including the Ahlhorn fish ponds (a major European conservation area) and the ancient forest of Herrenholz. The Goldenstedt Moor nature sanctuary and information centre is not to be missed, thanks to its educational trail, moorland tunnel and railway – and nor is the Museum of Straw Crafts in Twistringen. When it comes to the water, the Wilde Geest is best explored on a canoe trip on the idyllic little River Hunte.
Zittau Mountains Nature Park
The Zittau Mountains Nature Park is a scenic gem in the area near the German borders with Poland and the Czech Republic. A cultural landscape dating back 1,000 years has developed alongside the deep-blue waters of the River Mandau.
The irresistible charm of Germany’s smallest highland area lies in its various rock formations, sandstone mountains, volcanic peaks and picturesque valleys. Nature lovers will be in their element as they discover exquisite plants including marsh marigolds, martagon lilies and carline thistles or watch roe deer, badgers, eagle owls and peregrine falcons in the wild. Hiking trails, cycle paths, ski runs, bridle paths and educational trails cover hundreds of kilometres through the natural landscape. It is well worth climbing to the top of the mountain peaks offering spectacular views and visiting villages that are home to traditional rural houses. The nature park visitor centre in the 600-year-old Niederkretscham building in Waltersdorf is a veritable treasure trove of information about the natural habitat, geology and culture.
