Between Darmstadt and the bright lights of the Frankfurt International Airport [FRA], lies Büttelborn.

You’ll find this place to be quite a contrast to its ultra glamorous, fast paced neighbors. Don’t think that because Büttelborn moves at a slower speed that it’s devoid of any culture or you won’t find anything to do here.

Quite the contrary…

During Asparagus Season, from April to June, this little town of 13,000 springs into gear; making accommodations at the few small guesthouses hard to come by. There are plenty of local growers selling their wares of vegetables, flowers, and fruit, though.

Those local grown goodies will give you the sustenance you’ll need to do everything around town. Besides a visit to wildlife filled Hessian Ried, there’s both an 18-hole and 9-hole golf course to tackle. Not only that, there are also a number of hiking and bicycling trails that wind through the Hessian countryside.

It has to be something, otherwise why would people have lived here for more than 6,000 years? ;-)

There are indoor pursuits, as well. Büttelborn is lucky enough to boast two Local History Museums; one in the small village of Klein-Gerau, the other in Büttelborn Proper.

That is also where you’ll find one of the most beautifully preserved timber-framed buildings, Büttelborn’s City Hall that was built in 1582. There are a few 17th and 18th century churches and War Memorials scattered throughout town, just for good measure.

One of the more interesting places around town is Cafe Extra. It’s the place to be for a variety of entertainment, including cabaret and comedy. Cafe Extra doesn’t exclude the kids, as it even offers programs for the younger set.

The entire family can get involved in Büttelborn’s festivals, too. Come the last week of August, when the village of Wolfelden hosts its annual City Celebration and Klein-Gerau’s is only a week later.

Sorry, you’re gonna have to wait another two weeks to enjoy Büttelborn Proper’s festival.

So… who needs the big city when you’ve got a place like this? :-)

Wolfhagen’s slogan could very well be, Once Upon A Time.

Oh, sure, many of Germany’s small towns could fit the bill of some ordinary fairy-tale land. But, this is no ordinary town, as this is the land of the Brothers Grimm. Yes, the 19th century siblings that collected the stories of Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Cinderella, and Hansel & Gretel that we all love today (sorry, Disney you can’t get all the credit ;-).

With a town’s history like this, it’s no wonder that Wolfhagen is on the tourist (but, not touristy) German Framework Road and the Fairytale Route. Which means you’re guaranteed to find the ultimate in many timber-framed buildings, as if they just jumped right out of the pages in one of Grimm’s books. Well, not entirely true as many of these beauties have stood here in town for more than 400 years, long before the days of the Grimms.

You’ll see how it is when you visit the 16th century Altes Rathaus (Old City Hall) whose special cellar that has reproduced the artwork of Ludwig Grimm, who painted here.

And, what’s a fairytale without a castle? Well, in the case of Wolfhagen there are two. First there is the 12th century Water Castle Elmarshausen, the other being the ruins of the 12th century Castle Weidelsburg. Neither of which should be missed!

For more of Wolfhagen’s medieval history, visit the Kattenturm. It’s one of eleven of the town’s original watchtowers.

Now the place for many concerts, St. Anna has stood overlooking Wolfhagen since the 13th century. Not too far from St. Anna is the Fairytale Well, symbolizing the town’s history to the Grimm Brothers. Then its Regional History Museum really does a wonderful job in highlighting the area’s unique and long history.

After all that, you’d think that this is where your fairytale ends. Well, it doesn’t because in addition to everything else, you’re able to enjoy fishing, golf, swimming, and just about everything in between. The many bicycling and hiking trails that meander through the Hessian countryside will have you just about speechless.

One of the most exciting attractions is actually a festival, the Kleinkunstfest to be exact. A 10-day Arts Festival held in May that pulls in thousands of visitors from all over coming to see some of the region’s best artists.

Looks like life is looking up in the Land of Grimm. ;-)

Germany is one of those places where history spans back to prehistoric times and much of its topography was created by melting ice of the last Ice Age.

What that means for us is that we, in today’s world, get to enjoy and appreciate a place like Pfullendorf in the beautiful state of Baden-Württemberg. The natural beauty of this place is further enhanced with its amazing history; and it has some really cool fun stuff to boot.

History lovers will appreciate that Pfullendorf lies along the Upper Swabian Baroque Route, which means you’re going to see the best of the best of 17th and 18th century period buildings.

To delve further back in history, Pfullendorf also lies along the Deutsche Fachwerkstraße or German Framework Route, a tourist route that highlights the most beautiful timber-framed buildings in Germany — some date all the way back to the 15th century.

Pfullendorf also lies along the St. James Way, the famous route traveled by godly pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostella in Spain. When you’re here, know that you’re following in the footsteps of these pious pilgrims on the same cobblestone store-lined streets in the center of town.

For a great blend of culture and history, visit Castle and Kloster Salem. The castle itself was originally built in 1134 and now has an informative visitor’s program, as well as holding numerous concerts and art exhibits throughout the year.

History aside, Pfullendorf is also a really fun place packed with sports of all kinds. When the weather is warm, why not take a trip over to nearby Lake Constance. Better known as the Bodensee, here you can munch on yummy local regional cuisine, go camping, or just hang out sunbathing while scoping out the mystic Black Forest in the background.

Over at the Sea Park Linzgau, you’ll have more than enough to keep you busy for quite some time. There’s tennis, waterskiing, and a miniature golf course that is open between April to November. Come winter and you can enjoy some serious ice skating. The best part of it all? Entrance is free of charge. ;-)

Come to Pfullendorf anytime of the year. You’ll most certainly be happy you did, as you can experience all the fun and history you want, all in one place.

Some might have once considered life to be hard here within the Swabian Alb, but no one could say that it isn’t pretty. Combine the ultra beautiful Eselburger Valley countryside with some interesting history and you’ve got yourself Herbrechtingen.

Herbrechtingen is located near the Lonetal, once a prehistoric sea. Coral rock formations were once underwater and today you’re able to view them without any need for SCUBA gear. The Lonetal is also where you’ll find some of the oldest cave drawings known to man, dating back some 30-40 thousand years ago!

If you’re looking to get your heart racing, then rock climbing within the Eselsburger Tal Nature Preserve will do it. For the rest of us who’d rather not scale rock walls, then any of the walking and biking trails will do.

Look out for what’s known as the “Stone Virgins,” a stunning natural rock formation jutting out from the landscape. Sorry, there’s no climbing that one. But, there is a Walking Bus Tour that will make sure you get the most out of your trip.

Also within the Eselsburg Valley are the ruins of the 12th century Castle Falkenstein. The castle, built around 1150, has laid in ruins since the 17th century and the countryside encircling it only adds to its mysterious charm.

For more cerebral pursuits, then visiting the Cultural Center of the Monastery Herbrechtingen is in order. You might not guess that this timber framed building, that now houses a library and a school, was the site of an original 8th century monastery. Its original was destroyed during the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648) and was rebuilt in 1666 to what you see today.

A visit to both the Danube-Swabia and Herbrechtingen’s Local History Museums will really give you an idea of what life was once like here within the Alb. Of course, if you’re lucky enough to come in July for the town’s City Celebration you’ll be able to party Swabian Style, too.

Who said, life was hard here on the Alb? :-)

There is a reason that people come to this region of Middle Franconia. Some come for the natural beauty and others for the many little towns that have weathered the ages.

Hilpoltstein and its 31 villages will have you coming for its beautiful countryside, its many festivals, and its plenty of historical buildings which will have you wondering if you’ve time warped back a few centuries. ;-)

Much of the culture and places of interest here in town tell the story of the region’s history. Castle Hilpoltstein is one of the oldest buildings in town as it was built over a thousand years ago. The castle ruins are a major tourist attraction and its tourist center makes a great place to start your journey. It’s also the place to be for the 3-day Castle Celebration on the 1st weekend in August.

Hilpoltstein is so proud of its long history (and there really is a lot to take in) you might want to join in on its “Old City” organized tour. It will give you a more in-depth look at the town’s City Hall (circa 1417), the St. Johannes Village Church (1473), Choir Manor house (1491), the Jahrsdorfer House (1523) where you’ll see how the aristocracy lived quite well for its day. Last but not least is the Doederleinsturm (the last remaining medieval wall tower).

Another interesting tour offered by the town is the “Underground Tour.” Follow a guide through the old dark tunnels underneath the city streets for a different look about town.

Visitors are able to learn more at the Museum Schwarzes Ross, or the Urban History Museum. For you beer lovers, it’s here that you’ll get a look at Renaissance beer making. Sadly the brewing of the stuff stopped in 1880, but residents are still proud of its brewing history.

Hilpoltstein isn’t all old buildings, it’s a place of fun, music, and laughter. Come see for yourself at the Spring Concert in April, or the Medieval Festival in May, and the Kite Celebration on the last weekend in September.

So, come time warp yourself to Hilpoltstein — you’ll be more than happy you did.

In Brandenburg you’ll find Berlin‘s next door neighbor Mühlenbecker Land. There are four villages that make up the town, Mühlenbeck, Schildow, Schönfließ and Zühlsdorf. In a country with such a lengthy history it is only natural that there are many architectural landmarks to visit about town.

Each village has its own Village Church and each are considered to be their landmark, respectively. Schönfließ’s church is the most historic; a medieval wonder that was built in 1375. Its interior was redone in the ornate Baroque style in the 18th century, so be prepared to see some fabulous artwork.

Really, the area surrounding Mühlenbecker Land is much older than many of its buildings. In the village of Zühlsdorf there was evidence found that people of the Stone Age lived here. Look closely and you’ll find the town’s monument dedicated to those early settlers. And in Mühlenbeck there were ancient Bronze Age grave hills found.

Speaking of graves, there is an interesting piece of history that can be found nearby. As morbid as it might seem, many visitors to the area come see what is known as the Südwestkirchhof Stahnsdorf. This cemetery is the final resting place of some of the greatest minds in 19th and 20th century German history. It is more than just an old cemetery with many trails throughout its forest, more than peaceful, and has many sculptures and wells scattered throughout.

There is more 20th century history throughout the region of the Mühlenbecker Land. You’ll find a “honor” cemetery (military cemetery) dedicated to Soviet soldiers in Zühlsdorf. On Berlin Road you’ll find a memorial stone dedicated to anti-fascist resistance fighters.

Mühlenbecker Land isn’t all old churches, gravestones, and memorial monuments. It can also throw a seriously fun festival. The most popular is a three day event known as the Heath Celebration which is held every summer.

When you come to Berlin, make sure you put aside some time to visit the area of Mühlenbecker Land. Better yet, stay here altogether, you won’t be sorry.

Lovers of nature and flat lands flock to the German state of Lower Saxony every year. More specifically, they like to travel to the town of Wiesmoor because once the flowers start to bloom they paint this East Frisian landscape in beautiful pastels and bright colors.

Beyond that it is one of the best natural vacation spots Germany has to offer. Here’s your chance to either charter a boat or hop on one of the many tour boats that explore the channels which will take you out towards the nearby North Sea.

Much of daily life revolves around the water so it’s no wonder that Wiesmoor hosts not one, but two Port Festivals in June.

Festivals also bring people to the town nearly year round. In March there is the Wiesmoor Spring Celebration; the flower and plant market attracts people every Spring, as well. Like every good German town there is a lively Oktoberfest. Don’t let the name fool you, the festival is held in September — not October.

Many associate Oktoberfest with German beer. Well, you won’t have to wait for September for that since Wiesmoor is close to the Jever Brewing House. Come try the Jever Pilsner or the Jever Light and there’s even a non-alcoholic version of the stuff available. Or, just come see how this beverage of the ages is made.

Really, beer is not the only beverage that is drunk (no pun intended) around here. Since Wiesmoor sits within East Frisia, this is tea country and quite the contrary to the rest of the coffee drinking country. Tea is serious business and served with Kluntje, a rock candy to sweeten it. On weekends and special occasions tea is served with little cookies or a bit of cake.

Just when you think you’ve seen it all, there’s more. Wiesmoor has a wonderful Art Center with exhibits on 20th century art, an Ocean Wave Water Park, and a Peat Museum.

It’s not going to be hard choosing whether to come to Wiesmoor. More like whether to have a beer or a spot of tea.

Ahhh, have both and enjoy. :-)

It’s well known that life in the Swabian Alb isn’t easy. But, you have to hand it to Bavaria on this one. Pretty is too mild a word for the town of Weißenhorn — it’s just simply stunning and there is plenty to satisfy a visitor’s curiosity.

The best place to start is along the Church Square which you’ll see when you enter through the 15th century Upper Gate. Also along the square is the 18th century City Hall. The Schranne is the Old City Hall (or, Altes Rathaus) that was built in 1390 and still stands today.

There’s also the Neuffenschloss (the old castle built in 1460), its neighbor the Fuggerschloss (the new castle built in 1513), and guardian of them all — the Mariä Himmelfahrt Kirche (Mariä Ascension Church).

When you’re done at the Church Square head off towards the Lower Gate (built 1470) which will lead you towards Prügelturm or Flogging Tower. Yes, that’s EXACTLY what it was used for — a city prison for 15th century minor offenders!

It would be a shame to miss out on a performance at the Municipal Theater, considered to be one of the smallest theaters in Germany. But, certainly not small on its history. Residents and visitors have been enjoying a number of performances here since 1876.

However, people have been enjoying beer around these parts for a lot longer. It’s Germany and Bavaria so it would be a colossal mistake not to enjoy a drink over at the town’s Fuggersches Bräuhaus; which has been brewing great “suds” since 1565.

Of course, the area of Weißenhorn is really much older than her buildings let on. You’ll see just how old the area really is over at the Local History Museum, with not only exhibits on Swabian and Bavarian culture but, with a huge archaeological collection of prehistoric and early-history finds.

If you have any energy left, go try your hand (or, legs in this case) at the Waldseilgarten. This tightrope “garden” has a variety of ropes tied at different heights amongst the trees. No doubt, the kids are gonna love this! :-)

They’ll also love the Old Town Celebration held in the old town section on the 2nd weekend in July. Actually, it’s a great time to be had by all.

Now, come see for yourself how stunning Weißenhorn really is.

Not too far from the soothing Emsland region is a sleepy little place known as Löningen. Well, sleepy might not be the right word — tranquil would be a better fit. But, don’t let the word fool you as there’s plenty to see and do here nonetheless. It just does it with a quiet grace instead of the hustle and bustle of a large city.

Town leaders are proud of the beautiful countryside and work to make sure that visitors have a memorable experience. Guests are often taken on organized trips around town that really delve deep into the area’s history.

Another way to view what life was like around these parts is over at the Local History Museum.

The one site you must see, which is known as the town’s landmark, has been here for centuries: St. Vitus Catholic Church. It is considered to be the largest columnless church in all of Germany. It’s a source of considerable pride for local residents.

Another popular place to visit is the 250 year old Schutenmühle. There is no better place to get a real feel of the people and culture of the area. Locals are especially fond of it and it’s the place of countless wedding ceremonies. You’ll also find a little café and it hosts artsy exhibitions of various kinds.

After a busy day of rafting, canoeing, jogging, and sightseeing (not to mention swimming, fishing, horseback riding, tennis) there are more than enough places to satisfy your appetite since the local townsfolk are quite proud of their culinary talents. In the local pedestrian district there are more than enough options to choose from. Everything from a trendy Mediterranean kitchen to some of the best gourmet around.

Remember, Löningen is a quiet town, so don’t go around making a lot of noise. Alright… you can go on shouting the town’s praises from the rooftops! ;-)

Like many communities in Germany, Schwabmünchen has a long and interesting history.

Well, just about any place within Bavaria has more than one story to tell, but the region’s natural beauty usually steals the show. In this case, it is Schwabmünchen’s annual festivals that manage to do that.

There is evidence found that Celtic, Roman and Alemannic people lived in the area centuries before the town was officially recognized in 954 A.D.

The best place to learn more about this region of Swabia is to look no further than the Local Art Gallery and Local History Museum. Conveniently located all under one roof (on 4 floors), you’ll find a look into daily life here, as well as modern day art exhibitions from local artists.

You would think that that would be Schwabmünchen’s landmark, but it isn’t, it’s the Hexentürmchen. These 16th century “Witches Turrets” are dazzling white, having stood guard over town since the 16th century.

If a castle is what you’re looking for, head over into the neighborhood of Schwabegg where you’ll find the remainders of one from the 10th century.

Another place where you’ll get a look at Schwabmünchen’s culture is during any number of the town’s festivals. The Spring Celebration is held on the 2nd Sunday before Easter. There’s no better way to bring in the warmer weather and say goodbye to winter, I’d say!

Of course, you might forget about snowy winters, if only for a day, during the town’s Mardi Gras Festival in February.

The best of all of Schwabmünchen’s festivals is the 3 day event known as Michaelimarkt, an annual fair held at the end of September since 1562. Visitors and residents alike are treated to a variety of music, entertainment, crafts, and local culinary delights. A few weeks later is the town’s Wine Celebration, for another chance to enjoy some locally fermented treats.

Another site to see that’s steeped in history and legend is the Strickerbrunnen located on the Schrannenplatz. According to legend, if two people sit on the lamb and goat underneath the sculpture at the same time they’ll become lifelong friends.

Don’t worry if no one sits next to you at the Strickerbrunnen. Once you’re here, you’ll know that the town of Schwabmünchen itself will forever be your friend. ;-)