Lake Constance (German: Bodensee )

Lake Constance, or “Bodensee” as it is called in German, is not only the third largest freshwater lake in Central and Western Europe, but it is also perhaps the most beautiful and multifaceted of all of the lakes in Europe or possibly even worldwide. A local saying coins the diversity of the Bodensee region: When God created the Earth he had lots of miscellaneous parts left over so he put them all together and created the Bodensee. The lake is situated at the quadripoint between the countries of Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Lichtenstein and offers amazing panoramic views of the Alps.

Moreover, the Bodensee region is not just one of the strongest economic regions within Europe, but also a popular tourist destination for people of all ages due to its Mediterranean flair and great range of recreational and sporting activities, such as a variety of water sports on the lake, lido-esque bathing facilities/beaches, thermal baths, biking and hiking through the countryside, forests or even up and down the nearby mountains, open air concerts with international performers, numerous wine and beer festivals, great pubs/bars, discos, restaurants, cafes and countless places of interest in various towns and sites around the lake.

The Bodensee region is often light-heartedly referred to as “ Northern Italy ” or the “German Riviera”, which is, of course, due to its Mediterranean flair and mild climate. Thanks to this mild climate, the undulating landscape on the German side of the lake is opulently populated with vineyards, hop farms, fruit fields and orchards as far as the eye can see. The picture-postcard appearance is simply incredible.

The Bavarian and Austrian Alps

The Bavarian and Austrian Alps are overwhelmingly magnificent and strikingly beautiful. Tourists flow here from all around the world, all year round, because the Alps offer a range of all-season activities.

Summertime is great for hiking, bike riding, bathing in cool, alpine lakes and sightseeing excursions to some of the regal castles and historical sites of interest. The region offers lots of summer events and festivals, including the famous Oktoberfest in Munich.

Wintertime is not only popular for hiking and sightseeing, but also for a variety of winter sports, such as snowboarding, tobogganing and skiing on wonderfully prepared slopes. There are lots of traditional mountain restaurants where skiers can take a well-earned break on the sunny terraces with a selection of fine food and beverages. A perfect day on the slopes is usually rounded off with a refreshing drink or two at one of the famous après-ski bars or parties.