From forests to cathedrals
– There is always an alternative Every year, about 37 million tourists from all over the world travel to Germany. Also annually, the German National Tourist Board (GNTB) conducts a survey among international visitors asking them to name their favourite German attractions. TEXT: BARBARA GEIER
For this year’s ‘Top 100 sights and attractions in Germany’ ranking, close to 32,000 visitors from more than 60 countries cast their vote. We had a closer look at the top 15 in the list and thought we should suggest some off-the-beaten-track alternatives. Because if you like those, you might also like these. Forest bathing At number 13, it is no surprise to find the Black Forest as one of Germany’s most 40 | Issue 68 | November 2018
popular tourist attractions. Just like Neuschwanstein Castle or Munich’s Oktoberfest (at numbers three and 60, respectively), it immediately conjures up typical German scenes that international visitors associate with the country. So, if you like your forests deep and wild, why not try another one about 280 miles to the northeast: Hainich National Park, an ancient woodland in Thuringia and part of the World Heritage region of Wartburg Hainach, was once a military exclusion zone and is now the
largest mixed deciduous forest in Europe. With its ancient beeches and more than 8,600 species of animals, it provides a proper primeval forest experience right in the heart of Germany. And there is a special attraction that you will not find in the Black Forest: Hainich Canopy Walkway allows visitors to enjoy the green splendour from the treetops. 25 metres above the grounds (and wheelchair-accessible!), the views are stunning. Should you have caught the latest lifestyle bug of ‘forest bathing’ for stressed urbanites, why not give this unique bit of greenery a try. Lakeside love Up there at number four in the top 100 list, Lake Constance with Mainau Island