Germany is on the green list in more ways than one: from Baltic coastline to the Alps, it has plenty to offer those who like to spend their holidays outdoors
Baden-Württemberg is a popular destination thanks to its university towns (Tübingen, Freiburg, Heidelberg), impressive spread of historic castles and palaces, luxurious spas and cultural scene. Its major natural draw is the sprawling Schwarzwald (Black Forest), which spans about 6,0000 sq km (2,000 sq miles) from the refined spa town of Baden-Baden in the north right down to the border with Switzerland. Dotted with lakes, waterfalls, ravines and moorlands, and threaded with rivers and 18,000 miles of trails, it’s a great place to get lost in, and a paradise for hikers, cyclists, cross-country skiers, kayakers and climbers. There are lots of wonderful towns and villages with cultural offerings throughout the region too, plus wine festivals in autumn and Christmas markets in winter.
Foodies can make a longer trip to Baiersbronn, which has the highest concentration of Michelin stars in the world
Take a bike ride along the Isar river to explore villages like Krün and Wallgau
Related: 10 of the best novels set in Germany – that will take you there
Related: A Rhine romance: following the mighty river
For a splurge, Freustil in Binz is one of the region’s top restaurants
South of Berlin, the photogenic wetlands, forests and canals of the Spreewald are a paradise for canoe and kayak fans
Related: Summer in Germany: Three regions for a laid-back, crowd-free holiday
If you’re not a hiker or biker, a train circles the mountain regularly, and there are mellower activities
Continue reading...