Germanynaturally Travel Tips

Germany’s landscapes offer a wealth of natural options for an unforgettable vacation: long sandy beaches on the coasts and lake shores, fabled river waterways, enchanting lowland plains and the high peaks of the Alps. Whether you are looking for leisurely exploration, a spa or wellness break, or a more active vacation, Germany has it all.

A Hiker’s Paradise
Numerous hiking trails lead through Germany’s beautiful natural landscapes. One of the best areas for Alpine hiking is the Berchtesgaden National Park, bordering the Austrian province of Salzburg. A great place for walkers is the Partnachklamm Gorge, a canyon with a roaring stream at the bottom and sheer cliff walls hedging the trail. However, the most famous hiking trail is the Rennsteig, a 100-mile walk from Eisenach on the River Werra to Blankenstein on the River Saale that cuts along a sweeping ridge of the Thuringia Forest National Park.

Pedal Power
Looking to go cycling? Millions of visitors have already discovered that exploring the country cycling or mountain biking can be both relaxing and exciting. The country boasts some 200 long-distance cycle paths. They are an excellent choice for anyone who wants to enjoy Germany’s unspoiled scenery. Two of the most popular routes are the Danube Bikeway (from Donaueschingen, where the Danube River originates, via Ulm and Passau into Austria) and the Elbe Bikeway (that starts in the Czech Republic, where the Elbe River begins, and continues via Prague, Dresden and Hamburg to the North Sea).

Winter Wonderland
Germany offers compelling attractions for skiers, from a challenging alpine course to a beginner's run or a refreshing cross-country trail. In the Bavarian Alps, ski slopes begin at 8,700 feet and winter snowfalls keep the snow at six-foot depths in the ski lift areas. Bavarian Alpine favorites include Berchtesgaden with 85 miles of ski trails; Oberammergau, the leading choice among cross-country ski buffs; and Oberstdorf and Garmisch-Partenkirchen, host of the World Cup Ski Jump every New Year’s Day.

Water, Water Everywhere
Vacations on one of the country's many picturesque lakes and enchanting waterways provide the perfect setting to relax and unwind with family and friends. Visitors looking for some adventure can explore canoeing, sailing, speed boating or even windsurfing.