Zeven is one of those towns in Lower Saxony that is incredibly historic.

It was a stop over point for some 17th century Swedish Queen, that seemed to make an indelible mark in town over the last few hundred years. Besides that, it’s a fun modern place with more than enough to keep visitors, both young and old, busy.

Zeven’s most famous visitor was Queen Christina of Sweden and there’s a monument dedicated to her in town. There’s even some interesting art scattered around town, all shaped like crowns and painted the same color blue on the Swedish flag to celebrate this 17th century monarch.

She spent the night at what is now known as the Christina House. This 17th century building is the oldest within the town limits. Since the 1980’s this old guesthouse has been completely restored to its former glory. You can even enjoy the modern art sculpture garden behind the old house.

OK, Christina’s House is actually the second oldest because the stunning St. Viti was built back in 1141. St. Viti is near the Monastery Museum and its cryptic cellar was once used for storage and a prison.

Actually, the oldest of what you’ll find here are the 74 ancient hill graves with exceptionally large boulders. It’s one of the largest antiquated cemetery within the entire district of Rotenburg.

Like all of this isn’t enough, there’s more. The younger ones will no doubt love Atlanticum, a wonderful sea aquarium. Then there is Zeven’s Magic Park, the only one of its kind within all of Germany. And, there’s also a wild game park and a dinosaur park nearby.

Though it’ll probably be the grown-ups that would prefer to see the Outdoor Museum of Kiekeberg, with a live look at farming, gardening, and the cultural history of the region of Zeven.

See, there really is something for everyone. Now, enjoy! :-)

In the western Münsterland is the ultimate in medieval towns, Velen.

Most of its history that you get to see comes from the early 14th century. Of course, some of the town has changed over the years mostly with the advent of modern conveniences. Which means you get to enjoy life of the Middle Ages, only under better circumstances.

They might not have had indoor plumbing back in 1319, but they sure could build one heck of an incredible castle. Schloss Velen is, simply put, gorgeous. And, no better way to feel like nobility than being able to spend the night here, since it’s now a hotel. Oh yeah, it even has a moat.

You’ll find another castle in town (sorry, not a hotel), the Schloss Ramsdorf. Ramsdorf was built in 1425 and now some 585 years later, it houses a wonderful local and natural history collection. Don’t forget to visit the early 15th century St. Walburga Church, too.

In the heat of the summer many local residents and visitors take a dip in the popular Artesi Well. You might want to wait until after you’ve ventured out on the walking, hiking, skating, and biking trails that spoke out into the countryside. Since this area of the Münsterland sits along the “100 Schloss Route,” you’ll find many more castles and manor houses around.

It’s in the Fall when you’ll find Velen “letting its hair down” during its Kolle Kearmes Festival. Visitors from all over Westphalia come to dance, sing, eat, and shop on the first weekend in October. There is another festival held in the beginning of May, but the autumn festival is on a much grander scale.

You’ll love walking along the small winding streets of Velen, some leading along old 15th and 16th century mills and farms.

Chances are in one of our history classes you have heard about Anne of Cleves, one of King Henry VIII’s many wives. In German, it’s spelled Kleve and it’s about 4 km away from one of the most fantastic towns you’ll ever get to see, Bedburg-Hau.

This town steeped in history that dates back even further than the days of King Henry and Queen Anne. And, it has some pretty fun sporting activities to keep you busy.

Golf lovers will no doubt enjoy the 18-hole course found at the Castle Moyland Golf Resort. Just as art lovers will have plenty of 19th and 20th century art to peruse within the restored 14th century Castle Moyland.

If you want more castles (as if the stunning Moyland isn’t enough), visit the early 15th century Rosendal House. While the Eyl House is a fine example of a moated medieval Schloss.

One of the best ways of getting the most out of your visit in Bedburg-Hau is to follow along the Via Romana bicycle route. It’s a doozy going on for 260 km (approx. 200 miles) highlighting many Roman military camps and castellets. There’s a fantastic one within the neighborhood of Qualburg that dates back to the 4th century.

During excavations at the Monastic St. Markus Church, which was built in 1124, there were ancient Roman graves found. Bedburg-Hau has a beautiful mausoleum, which is the grave of Prince Moritz von Nassau and is listed as one of town’s main objects of interest.

History isn’t Bedburg-Hau’s only claim to fame. Because there are the sweet smelling Open Gardens of Kleverland. This is where you’ll find some of the prettiest narcissus, locally grown vegetables, and some very creative gardeners.

In addition to the gardens, you’ll also be able to enjoy a game of tennis, bowling, or even go swimming. So, when you find yourself in this area close to the Netherlands, make sure you come over to Bedburg-Hau. This place really is fantastic!

Monschau will take your breath away. It’s a leading contender for one of Germany’s toughest titles: most picturesque town. With all the half-timbered treasures that dot the country, you know the town must be really something when even we Germans vote it to the top of the must-see lists!

In fact, it’s looking not too different from how it did a few centuries back — which is exactly what gives this place its eternal charm, as I find.

As a part of the renowned Aachen district, Monschau nestles up to the Belgium border. It is also on the Rur river, which cuts through a part of the old town and provides an excellent opportunity for boat rides (whitewater rafting, anyone?). You can rent your own or take a guided ride, both of which are a nice afternoon outing.

There is so much to see and do here, so adjust your schedule accordingly. But, the best way to start your journey is right at the Market Square. It’s here that you can pick up the Town Train for a 30 minute highlighted tour around town for just a handful euros a person.

It’s well worth it since it points out many of the sights around town that you can go explore more in-depth later on and passes many of the Old Town’s timber framed buildings with their flowerbox adornments, sitting right on the edge of the River Rur. You’ll also pass by many of the arts & crafts shops, cafes, and delicate bridges.

One of the major stops on the train tour is the 13th century Castle Monschau. Some of the castle is in ruins, most notably what is known as The Haller. Its West Wing has been a Youth Hostel since the First World War and its grey stones makes the perfect backdrop for the summer concerts and operas held here.

Also along the train route you’ll find some interesting museums and shops. There is the Coffee Roasting Company of Wilhelm Maassen, where visitors have watched coffee roasting since 1862. You’ll also find a glassworks factory, a 19th century Mustard Mill, a Printing Museum, a Local History & Culture Museum.

Save the best for last, making a visit to the Felsenkeller Brauereri Museum. That’s right, you guessed it — beer, which has been brewed at the Monschauer Brew House for over a 150 years.

What else could the air-health resort town of Monschau have?

Ah yeah, what about that red building over there that everyone is pointing to, right?

Well, that one is called Rotes Haus or Red House. It takes its name from the bricks on the building, and stands out sharply from the gray slate rooftops and stone of the surrounding structures. Four of the eight levels of the Red House are open to guests, and the trompe l’oeil paintings are a major draw.

You won’t want to just stay in Monschau’s old district, however. You will also want to hike out to the Eifel National Park. It has a zoo that opened in 2004 and number of hiking trails through some deeply attractive woodland.

In the spring months, you can take special advantage of the daffodil fields that are in bloom. They can give you a sunny wake up if you are still hungover after your adventures at the Monschau Carnival — the whole region is known for its incredible spring parties. ;-)

Other popular activities throughout the year center around the Rursee, one of the largest man-made lakes in Germany.

Shoppers will also want to be in town for the summer and winter sales. Since cloth mills are a traditional industry here, you can get some really interesting woven goods for souvenirs to supplement your photographs.

You see, Monschau is no ordinary town, more a place of eternal beauty, grace, and charm. A town that makes the most of its history and does it within the most stunning countryside. There is no getting any better than this.

When you think of Bavaria, and its many small towns like Vöhringen (Iller), many things come to mind. Like, the majestic Alps reaching skyward, emerald green meadows, medieval castles, and many flowerbox lined timber-framed houses.

What you don’t think of are slot machines. Yes, the Las Vegas, bell ringing, coin clanging one-armed bandit. Vöhringen was the birthplace of Mr. Charles August Fey, inventor of the modern gambling pastime.

Don’t worry, you won’t find any of those here; you’ll get the more traditional historical and outdoor experience. But, truthfully, Bavaria is one of those places that really is best experienced outdoors. Who wouldn’t love to play a game of tennis or miniature golf with the Swabian Alb painted in the background? :-)

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with taking a rafting tour down Vöhringen’s Iller River either. Plus, there are a couple lakes around that are just perfect for more of a less ambitious pursuit, like sunbathing.

For anyone who prefers to stay dry, there are numerous walking and bicycling trails that wind their way along the river. The Illerzeller Auwald forest is made for hiking with its dense flora and fauna.

Vöhringen isn’t without its historical stuff, too. Since the area has been settled for thousands of years, there’s an Archaeological Museum nearby filled with many prehistoric and early human exhibits. You’ll even find some a chateau or two within the region. Not to mention, in the neighborhood of Illerberg its St. Martin’s church is considered to be one of the most outstanding Baroque buildings in the entire area.

When you’re looking for more culture around Vöhringen, then its Culture Center is exactly the place to go. Many concerts, comedy, art exhibits, and a variety of other artistic talents are held within its walls.

Well, you might not be gambling during your stay in Vöhringen. You most definitely won’t mind, considering there’s more than enough to keep you busy otherwise.

Some places are known for their history or some watershed moment in time. The municipality of Lengede is known, not only for its close proximity to the city of Peine, but for its outstanding natural beauty.

Oh, you’ll find some beautiful historic timber framed buildings around town. But, it is its lush forests that run along the River Fuhse that really stand out. The large protected nature park that surrounds the Lengeder Ponds is just perfect for bird watching, checking out local wildlife, and appreciate all the indigenous flora and fauna.

Within the forest and along the mountains there are numerous walking, hiking, and biking trails for all fitness levels. There are also plenty of grill huts scattered along the way; so don’t forget to pack a lunch for your journeys.

However, one of the most fun places in town is the Naturbad Lengede. This is not just your ordinary swimming pool that can be found in any number of towns in Germany. You’ll find everything here from its own beach, waterslide, waterfall, table tennis, a children’s pool, playground, and beach volleyball. If you don’t mind working the brain cells, get in on a game of chess since there are a number of chess sets within the complex.

If you get hungry there’s no need to leave the Freibad Lengede as you’ll find a snack bar and luncheonette there. Before you get too excited, food isn’t included in the nominal handful euro entrance fee. But, where else can you do all that for only a few bucks? This is some serious fun without breaking the family’s bank.

Come to Lengede if you’re looking for something a bit different from the big city experience. You’ll find inexpensive, yet more than decent, overnight accommodations and a spectacular countryside.

The best part is that you’re able to enjoy it without overspending and that’s bound to make any traveler happy, I guess.

It’s a fine balancing act to incorporate the old and the modern together. Jüterbog, which is located less than an hour south of Berlin, seems to have it right. A place where 20th century roads run right under medieval tower gates and along its old Ringmauer (military fortification wall).

Gate Towers aren’t the only medieval historic sites around Jüterbog. Nikolaikirche is a smashing example of a 14th century church with ornately decorated naves. Don’t miss the Franziskaner Mönchenkirche or Liebenfrauenkirche, either.

One of the most historical buildings in all of Jüterbog is the Monastery Zinna, which was built sometime in the late 12th century. Kloster Zinna’s Kaltenhausen, or guesthouse, is a fine example of a New Baroque style that was added to the monastery’s farming area at the turn of the last century.

Monastery Zinna’s museum has a wealth of information on the lives of medieval nuns and monks. You’ll be exceptionally lucky if you manage to get in on one of Zinna’s Monastery culinary classes that are held here throughout the year.

Only a century younger than Monastery Zinna is Jüterbog’s City Hall (circa 1285), considered to be one of the most beautiful town halls in all of Brandenburg. The mayor’s office is on the second floor and what a view they have, as the Rathaus overlooks Jüterbog’s Market Place.

If you visit Jüterbog between April and October, there’s a fabulous city guided tour on the first Saturday of the month. For only a handful euros, this city run tour is more than worth it with an in-depth look into the town’s history and folklore. There’s another city tour that runs approximately 90 minutes and is dedicated to the town’s 20th century military history.

So, if you find yourself near Berlin, come visit Jüterbog. All you have to do is hop on the modern Bundesstraße B101 and follow it until you’ve come back in history a few centuries.

Close to the German-French border in the Saarland is the historic town of Tholey. People have lived in this neck of the woods for better part of 6000 years. Today, it’s a modern town that embraces its past and sits within some gorgeous countryside in what is considered to be an air health resort is an extra added bonus.

Tholey’s abbey was the center of life around town for countless centuries. The artwork that can be found within the abbey is simply outstanding. Actually, that’s an understatement.

If you want to stay close-by, the charming Hotel St. Lioba is located right across the street. Who wouldn’t mind overlooking a smashing 9th century church while having some morning coffee? ;-)

But, the best way to ensure that you see everything, follow Tholey’s city walking tour. You’ll get a deeper history of the Abbey, as well as visiting the early 16th century Johann Adam Mill farm, and everything in between.

There are quite a few other buildings around town that just have to be seen. Technically not a building, don’t miss the German-French Peace Memorial. This area of Germany was once under French occupation and you’ll find little nuances of French influence all over.

For a different type of religious history, Tholey had a large Jewish population that went all the way back to the 18th century. Since the 20th century, it has no Jewish presence and its 19th century synagogue are gone, but the Jewish cemetery remains.

You’ll also find that Tholey takes its sports quite serious here. If you’ve never taken a stab at Nordic Walking, you might as well try it along some this fabulous countryside. Don’t worry, beginners are welcome. You’ll also find a multitude of just regular walking and bicycling trails.

When you’re done all that, relax those tired muscles in Tholey’s indoor swimming pool. The entire place is enclosed under glass allowing for a fantastic view of the night sky.

So, when you’re done with Saarbrücken, which is only about 45 minutes away, come enjoy Tholey. You’ll be glad you did.

There are three villages that make up Wadersloh: Diestedde, Liesborn, and Wadersloh proper. Each has more than enough to keep you busy for a few days. If you can manage to break it down to spend a day in each village, you’ll be sure to experience everything.

Diestedde is one of those medieval villages and it has the tree to prove it. You’re probably asking yourself, what? Yeah, in the forest close to Burg Crassenstein, a privately owned 12th century castle, is a magnificent Oak tree that has stood here for 900 years. It was once the place where medieval justice was served (hangings), but in our modern times we just get to enjoy its grandeur.

Many of the other walking paths found around here will give you different glimpses of Burg Crassenstein’s beauty, including its moat. It’s also where you’ll find a wonderful nature park and the gardens at the church of St. Nikolaus.

When in Wadersloh Proper, there’s one place that really needs to be seen. It’s the 15th century Parish Church of St. Margareta. St. Margareta’s tower stands a whopping 86 meters (approx 282 feet) high into the sky.

But, it is Liesborn that really steals the show. The site of an 8th century monastery where you’ll find a beautiful Baroque building that houses the Abbey Museum. Oh sure, Germany’s full of old abbeys but this one houses a collection of over 500 crucifixes from many periods of history (Baroque, Roccco, medieval, etc.).

You’ll also find pieces created by none other than renowned artists Marc Chagall and, my favorite, Salvador Dali. Liesborn’s Abbey also holds many concerts throughout the year, but most are held in the late Spring.

After there, take a walk over to the Sense Park, located by the St. Josef House. This interactive museum will delight both adults and kiddies with exhibits that get all your senses involved. The best part is that it’s free. And don’t let a darker evening stop you from visiting, as it’s brightly lit so it can be enjoyed anytime of day.

With that kind of consideration to its visitors, you really will get to see everything.

It’s funny how things come full circle.

In the feudal times of the Middle Ages, much of daily life revolved around a village’s castle. Now, a few centuries later a lot of life centers around Treuchtlingen Castle. OK, that’s not all that goes on around this village that was founded in the days of Charlemagne. But, it does add a bit of romance.

Castle Treuchtlingen was once a formidable 12th century stone castle that overlooked the town. It’s Upper Castle dates from that time, with other areas added through the centuries.

The castle today may lie in ruins, but its donjon (or, tower) that overlooks the town, is open only on the weekends. So be sure to plan accordingly. Come the last weekend in June, Burg Treuchtlingen hosts an elaborate Castle Celebration complete with some in period costume.

Don’t confuse the Castle Celebration with Treuchtlingen’s Folk Festival (2nd Friday in July) — a party that goes on for a whopping 10 days.

Across the street from the Burg is Treuchtlingen’s Local History Museum filled with artifacts found from excavations of the castle. That’s not the only exhibits you’ll find here, as residents have made their mark in the area for a lot longer than twenty centuries.

Romans used to walk these grounds and there’s a fine example of Roman architecture that can be found at the Mansion Rustica. Many centuries later residents built the Lambertus Chapel. Don’t miss it, as it’s the oldest church in town.

For 20th century history, Treuchtlingen has one of the few remaining Jewish cemeteries in the region. The town’s Jewish population dates back to the mid-14th century, but today you’ll only find a memorial stone where the town’s synagogue used to stand. There is an entire collection of Jewish families listed from the town archived in Treuchtlingen’s library, for genealogy reasons.

While you’re walking around getting to know Treuchtlingen, look out for the town’s War Memorial. Which is dedicated to the town’s soldiers and civilians killed during air raids in February 1945. As if the charred remains of a bombed train engine (housed in the Railway Museum in Nördlingen) doesn’t tell the tale, without ever saying a word.

Artwork found in Treuchtlingen’s city parks don’t ever say a word either. They’re so interestingly beautiful, they don’t need to say anything to touch your heart.

Really, this entire Middle Franconian town is so beautiful — it’ll touch your heart. You can’t get more romantic than that.