In the heart of the rolling hills east of Cologne lies the small provincial town of Waldbröl. It’s in a largely peaceful, agricultural, part of the North Rhine-Westphalia region, ideal for a relaxing visit. You can witness the strong links to farming each week at the Livestock and Krammarkt, which has been running for more than 150 years. It may not sound too exciting, but it’s one of the largest in Germany, and you’ll soon be captivated by the loud and lively atmosphere. But don’t imagine it’s all fields and nowhere to enjoy. It’s not… There are plentiful forests and numerous walks to entice you into the countryside. The Nutscheid is a forested region between the Broel and Sieg rivers, just outside the town. It’s a wonderfully picturesque place, with the dark forests opening to show you some magnificent panoramas. But the natural beauty has hidden some very unnatural secrets over the years. During World War Two it was used as a well camoflauged base for the V1 Rockets, and later, during the Cold War, as a storage for Patriot Missiles. The military remnants have long since gone, but you can still make good use of the American observation tower. Back in the town, there is another far more impressive tower. The Protestant Church still has the original spire, and the 12th Century font. The more modern square tower of the Evangelical Church shares Waldbröl’s skyline, and at certain times you can climb to the top for wonderful views. If you’re looking for something a little more energetic, there is a agreeable local swimming pool, a gymnasium, tennis courts, and riding stables. One of the strangest sights you’ll encounter is simply known as “The Wall.” It’s a substantial long wall, on the hill just above the edge of the town. Apparently it was the first part of a never built Adolf-Hitler-Schule, is now a regular meeting place, and is often marked with anti-war slogans. For you, though, think of it as the best place to go for a stunning vista over Waldbröl, and the idyllic landscape beyond.

Occupying a favorable position on the Lower Elbe River, the pretty town of Wittenberge was founded in the 13th century by the Saxon King Otto I. You won’t see much of that original settlement today, but the 17th century castle — Alte Burg — does still survive, despite the best efforts of fire and floods. Today it stands proudly overlooking the river, and is home to the town’s museum. In there you’ll learn that the town grew rapidly in the 1800’s, partly due to the river traffic, but also because of the early railway links that encouraged industry. Silk, food, and milling factories appeared, as well as the famous Singer Sewing Machine works. Sadly, most were wiped out during World War Two. For you as a visitor, though, it means the main center is now much more relaxing. You can wander comfortably through the older parts of the town, and along the peaceful riverside paths, enjoying the serenity. The river landscape is wide and green, with the calmness hiding the fact that it is actually deceptively busy. You have plenty of opportunity for activities here though. Sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, waterskiing, and even river cruises are all on hand to occupy your time. Away from the water, there are miles of clearly marked walking and cycling routes to explore. It’s a largely flat region, so it won’t tax the muscles too much! In the town itself, you can’t help but notice that the skyline is dominated by towers of every shape and size. If the huge clock tower looks a little unusual, its because it started life as the water tower of the Singer Sewing Machine Works. It now boasts the largest clock faces on mainland Europe. Nearby, the ornate spire of the impressive Evangelical Church stands proud, and the hexagonal tower of the Rathaus will also have you reaching for your camera. Wittenberge is a town littered with fine buildings, and not all of them are particularly old. The Steintor, and the House of Four Seasons are both deserving of a visit.