It was love at first sight when I set my eyes upon Lindau, a gasp-inducingly beautiful town that charmed me from the minute I visited. Located in Bavaria, Lindau is an island city best known for its harbour with the Bavarian Lion statue and the Lindau Lighthouse, which both stand proudly for all to see, with the stunning Austrian mountains serving as a jaw-dropping backdrop. I felt a wave of serenity wash over me as I walked along the promenade next to the marina. I could have spent all day watching the small boats bobbing in the sea and gazing at the mooring poles peeking out of the water, which reminded me of the times I've spent in Venice. Lindau has a very continental feel to it and boasts a wide variety of cute shops and restaurants, ensuring you won't have a shortage of things to do during your visit. I loved strolling along the streets, happily snapping away at all of the gorgeous buildings just begging to be photographed - especially the pastel buildings, which helped to make even a dreary winter's day feel cheerful. If you visit Lindau near Christmas time, then you're in for a treat as Lindau's Harbour Christmas market is one of the most magical of the German Christmas markets. On all four advent weekends, the harbour promenade is busy with Christmas shoppers who come to visit the lovingly decorated stalls. Where to stay in Lindau During our visit, we stayed at the Hotel Noris, a simple, no-frills hotel within walking distance to all of all of the sights. We found the hotel manager to be very friendly and she was always on hand with a smile to ensure that guests are well looked after. Alternatively, if you're looking for a hotel with a bit more going on, stay at the Hotel Engel, a 3-star hotel that has a rooftop patio and two restaurants, including one with a Bavarian tavern. Where to eat in Lindau If you're into top-notch fish and seafood, then there's only one place to go - Zur Fischerin. This cosy fish restaurant in the heart of the town has a wealth of well prepared dishes to sink your teeth into and is a great place to catch up with friends after exploring all the city has to offer. For more information:
Lake Constance Tourist Board Lindau Tourist Board A.A. Miln *During my visit I was hosted by the Lake Constance Tourist Board and the Hotel Noris, all views and opinions are my own
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When I first saw Konstanz, I arrived during the 'magic hour' - the time at dusk when the light is at its most magical, casting a lovely glow on the surroundings, helping to make Konstanz look all the more beautiful. Konstanz is historical town located in the Lake Constance region. From the 10th to the 14th century, this historical town located at the intersection of the main routes of commerce between Italy, France and Eastern Europe, was an important emporium for trading fur, linen and spices. Today, it retiains its historical charm but is more well known for its shopping with people coming from near and far to shop at the Lago shopping centre. What to see in Konstanz When in Konstanz, go on a walking tour of the harbour and the historic Old Town (Niederburg). When you're out and about, ensure you visit the 9th century cathedral, the largest religious building in the town, which has well preserved gallery-like tunnels in its crypt. Where to eat in Konstanz Head to Konzil Restaurant for regional specialities (e.g. local fish and meats) or if you're looking for hearty German cuisine (schnitzel and kasspatzle - basically a pimped-up version of macaroni and cheese - pop by Brauhaus, where you can wash down your meal with one of their craft beers. Where to stay in Konstanz The Steigenberger Inselhotel Once a former convent, today the five-star Steigenberger Inselhotel is a stylish, lake-front hotel on the edge of Lake Constance. The hotel's history becomes evident when one beholds the cloister painted with religious frescoes, which depict scenes from the Bible. When the building was converted into a hotel in 1875, the frescoes were in a state of disrepair, so Count Eberhard von Zeppelin, the founder of the hotel, commissioned their repair, which took six years to complete but it was worthwhile as the results are stunning. Other hotels to check out in the area include the ultra-luxurious 5.5-star Riva Hotel, which is renowned for the stunning cuisine served at its restaurant or opt for the modern and sleek Hotel 47 with its minamilist decor. The Konstanz Christmas Market One of the big draws for people visiting Konstanz during the Christmas period is the Christmas market by the lake, the largest Christmas market in the Lake Constance area, which boasts more than 10,000 lights and 170 vendor stalls, where visitors can buy everything from food to unique, handmade gifts. When visiting the stalls, ensure you try the 'dinnele' a delicious pizza-like dish featuring potatoes, cheese, ham and onions. Served piping hot, it's the perfect winter warmer. One standout feature of the Christmas market is the 'Christmas Ship', a ship decorated with lights that has a restaurant and bar that's a great place to retreat to when the temperature dips below freezing. Konstanz Mardi Gras If you happen to be in Konstanz during New Year's Eve, than you'll be in for a raucous celebration as everyone gets in the spirit of celebration during the Mardi Gras. Having been told about its charms, we definitely know when we'll be returning to Konstanz! For more information visit:
Lake Constance Tourist Board Lake Constance A.A. Miln *During my visit I was hosted by the Lake Constance Tourist Board and the Steigenberger Inselhotel
Renowned by many as the city where they make their infamous Ravensburger puzzles, Ravensburg has more to it than just puzzles and games. This small medieval town in Germany (population 50,000) is bursting with history. Located in the heart of the countryside between the Algeau and Lake Constance, this economic hub, which was once a thriving trading centre, is now Upper Swabia's primary shopping town.
While taking a leisurely stroll through the town to look at the shops, it's worth visiting the historic old town - whether on your own or via a guided tour. When walking through the city, you'll note the numerous towers and gates (17 to be exact), which give it its nickname 'the city of towers and gates'. Ravensburg has also recently welcomed four new museums over the coming years, all of which cater to a variety of interests including: Ravensburg Art Museum, Ravensburger Museum, Humpis-Quartier Museum, Ravensburger Museum of Economics. If you visit during the Christmas season, then the Ravensburg Christmas market, 'Christkindlesmarkt', is a must. With more than 100 stalls in total, this market is split in two sections; the traditional Christkindles Market (offering handmade goods and culinary delights) can be found around the City Hall, while the second market, the Reischmann Christmas Market, is only a few steps away. Whatever time of year you visit, you're certain to find plenty of activities to keep you occupied. A.A. Miln
For more information visit:
Ravensburg Tourist Information The Lake Constance Tourist Board *During my visit I was hosted by the Lake Constance Tourist Board and the Ravensburg Tourist Board |
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