Rastede is a place in which you will find much to do by visiting the various attractions.

One particularly impressive site to visit is Schloss Rastede, an ancient castle which housed the rulers of Oldenburg, which underwent changes throughout the centuries. At one time a county, then a Duchy, Grand Duchy, and then a republic, this town’s grand history is displayed at various points of interest.

The castle has a long history and was once a monastery. If you like the grandness of European castles, Schloss Rastede will not disappoint. You will also find that many events, including vibrant fireworks displays, are a part of visiting the dwelling.

If medieval churches are part of your itinerary as you traverse this quaint city, you should definitely plan a stop at St.-Ulrichs-Kirche, which is as old as the city. Parts of the church which are still standing today were constructed in 1059, which makes them nearly 1,000 years old. Imagine yourself standing in a building which has existed for a millennium!

Again, medieval is the theme of the day in Rastede. You can find a “renaissance faire” atmosphere year-round. Jousting tournaments, markets, costumed actors and more make up the amusement one can find in these Middle Ages-themed events. Pretend to be royalty for a day and attend one of these grand affairs.

A much more modern site, but still noteworthy, is the Wahnbeker Fernmeldeturm. This telecommunications tower is notable for its height. Plus, it holds a place in the Guiness Book of World Records for the largest and highest Advent wreath worldwide — with a height of 134 meters, or 455 feet. At that towering size, you will find yourself stretching your neck to sneak a peek at the zenith of this monument.

For quaint German countryside settings, medieval churches, medieval fairs, and castles, look no further than Rastede. The city will cater to you as you wander its streets enamored. Everyone will be entertained when visiting this lovely German country town.

Holzminden is a small town at the river Weser in Lower Saxony. It is more than 1,000 years old and beautiful renovated buildings bear witness of this long and rich history.

You can’t leave Holzminden without visiting at least the Tilly-Haus and the Luther Church. The Tilly-Haus is the oldest house in town and it is believed that Count Tilly, the commander of the Catholic army during the Thirty Years’ War, stayed there.

The Luther Church was originally a Roman Catholic Church, probably called Maria Church, and was built in the beginning of the thirteenth century. In 1577 it was turned into a Protestant church.

If you’re not a history buff this could hardly be the reason to visit the town. No, the main reason to visit Holzminden is its tradition as scent and flavor center of Germany. The local tourist board created a tour through the city by which you learn — and smell — what the industry is about.

A trail leads you along fifteen scent stations. At each station you can smell a specific aroma that is used in the scents that are produced locally. Smell Lavender, Anise, Peppermint but also Fried Onions… When you’ve got enough of all those smells you can refresh yourself at one of the many fountains in the center of the town.

The scent and flavor industry is about 100 years old. During these 100 years the local industry has developed into one of the main producers of ingredients for scents and flavors in the world.

Holzminden is situated in the beautiful Weserbergland area and it would be a shame to miss out on the opportunity to going walking or cycling. You could make a trip to the castle of Corvey, which was founded in 815, or the castle of Bevern, a typical example of the Weserrenaissance architecture. Another worthwhile attraction is the Solling-Vogler national park about 10 km or 6 miles east of this town.

Waren (Müritz) lies at the northern end of the Müritz lake, right in the miraculous Mecklenburg Lakes region. An attractive town set amongst some beautiful Lakeland scenery, Waren is the ideal destination if you have a love for nature and are seeking a rural break.

A great place to start is the Müritz Museum, at Friedensstraße 5, which has been open to the public since 1866. Here you can learn about the culture of the region and the local flora and fauna, and get a real feel for the area before you begin your exploration.

If you are a bit of a culture vulture you will love the town center. St. George’s Church and St. Mary’s Church are brick built early Gothic structures that date back to the 13th Century. The former is also home to a notable Triumphal cross, whilst the latter was rebuilt in 1792 after being burnt down twice in the previous century.

Wandering around the town center you can truly escape to a bygone era, at least until lunch!

You can incorporate these sites into an enjoyable walking tour, on which you can also take in the Old Town Hall, and the timber-framed Löwenapotheke — which as well as a tourist attraction is also the local pharmacy.

In such a rural area it is a travesty if you do not get out into the surrounding countryside, and the 318 square kilometer Müritz National Park is the place in which to do it. The park is divided into two distinct areas, containing around 100 lakes (!), a huge variety of wildlife, a bird museum and a zoo.

A huge variety of activities can be enjoyed in the National Park, and if you really want to get your lungs working, take your pick from cycling, hiking, walking, sailing and even swimming if you can brave the cold waters.