Beyond Germany’s vibrant cities, you’ll discover a deep-seated passion among Germans for outdoor activities and sports throughout the year. The country boasts stunning hiking trails and varied landscapes, providing opportunities to connect with unspoiled nature while immersing yourself in local culture.
One notable route is the Harz Witches’ Trail, a 61-mile path that traverses Harz National Park, leading to the historic mines of Rammelsberg and the charming town of Goslar. Other incredible trail options include the 66 Lakes Trail surrounding Berlin, the scenic Baltic Sea Coast Hiking Trail, and the beautiful Bergisch Panorama Trail.
Germany’s extensive forests, covering roughly a third of the country, are remarkable given its population density. The Bavarian Forest National Park is particularly noteworthy, as it has been allowed to develop naturally for decades. Following a storm in the 1980s, an important decision was made to leave fallen trees in place, creating a forest where nature is allowed to flourish.
Within these lush landscapes, you can find one of Germany’s 25,000 historic palaces. Notable examples include Wernigerode Castle in Saxony-Anhalt, the picturesque Moritzburg Castle near Dresden, and the stunning Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam. Saxony is a focal point for castles, while the Swabian Alb region in southwest Germany features striking fortresses. In the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, over 40 well-preserved castles dot a breathtaking 37-mile stretch between Bingen and Koblenz.