Germany

Germany's northernmost federal state Schleswig-Holstein lies between two seas and offers with its islands, the long coastline, the Wadden Sea and the green landscape behind the dikes a variety of exploration possibilities for hikers and cyclists.

Charming beaches and dunes, small fishing ports and expansive nature parks await you in Schleswig-Holstein. A trip to Fehmarn, Helgoland or the North Frisian Islands is a must. In addition, those interested in culture will discover the Hanseatic cities of Kiel, Lübeck and Flensburg with their countless sights.

Brandenburg is a worthwhile destination for all water sports enthusiasts. But the well-developed network of cycle paths also attracts visitors. Whether along the banks of the Havel and Spree rivers, the dikes of the Oder, Elbe and Neiße rivers or through the unique water labyrinth of the Spreewald rivers – nature lovers will get their money's worth.

Berlin and the state capital Potsdam are geographically located in the center of the state, but Cottbus or Frankfurt (Oder) also inspire with their cultural treasures.

A third of the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is under nature conservation and preserves deep green beech forests, wild coastal sections with chalk cliffs, quiet lakes and a species-rich flora and fauna. Cities such as Rostock, Schwerin and Stralsund, but also a multitude of castles and palaces invite visitors to discover historical sites.

In Saxony, it is not only the Elbe Cycle Route that attracts visitors to explore the most beautiful natural landscapes. No matter whether in the Erzgebirge, in the Leipzig region, in the Saxon Elbland, in Upper Lusatia or in the Vogtland – the curious outdoor athlete will find opportunities to be active everywhere.

As the most populous federal state, North Rhine-Westphalia offers a wide range of cultural activities. Away from the large centers, spas, Kneipp and climatic health resorts attract people seeking relaxation.

Despite the high density of cities, outdoor sports enthusiasts have a wide range on offer in North Rhine-Westphalia. The natural landscapes of the Teutoburg Forest and Siegerland-Wittgenstein are unique. Rare and endangered animal and plant species live in the Eifel. The Neanderland as well as today's green industrial sites and the Sauerland hiking destination are also worth a visit.

Lovely hills, dense forests, striking low mountain ranges – Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland lie where the Rhine and Moselle meander gently through the slate mountains. Some well-known routes such as the Eifelsteig, the Moselsteig or the Rheinsteig lead through the "Wander-Wunderland".

Follow the footsteps of the Romans on the well-developed network of cycle paths along historic towns such as the rivers Ahr, Lahn or Nahe. But there are also challenging climbs – those who conquer them will be rewarded with unforgettable views.

The most diverse landscape areas attract visitors to Baden-Württemberg: the Swabian Alb, the Electoral Palatinate with its castles and palaces, the region around Lake Constance with the monastery island of Reichenau, the Odenwald, the Heilbronn region with its vineyards and, of course, the state capital of Stuttgart. Ulm Cathedral and Hohenzollern Castle are just two examples of the many touring destinations in Baden-Württemberg. The "Geniesserland" is also rich in culinary specialties and top restaurants. Black Forest cherry cake, Maultaschen and Spätzle are world-famous.

In Bavaria, too, the heart of outdoor sports enthusiasts beats faster. The entire south of the Free State borders on the Alps – where everything is possible, from hiking on high-altitude trails to climbing countless peaks or descending on winding mountain bike trails. The Bavarian Forest on the border with the Czech Republic captivates especially with its rich animal world and the cultural heritage of glass production. In addition to numerous nature reserves, cities such as Munich, Nuremberg and Augsburg also attract visitors with their cultural sights. A well-known destination for families is the Legoland in Günzburg.