Bad Aibling is one of the few places in the world where they actually encourage you to jump right into the local waters. In fact, they want you to swim in them, soak in them, and drink them up as much as possible. Their reasoning is simple:
The water here is good for you.
As one of Bavaria’s oldest soaking spots, the spa culture here is well developed. There are a ton of local places to check out, although the largest is unmistakably found, thanks to its distinctive dome shape. You can sign yourself up for a cure for everything from rheumatism to acne in some of southern Germany‘s best facilities.
Of course, a town does not live on spas alone, as much as it would like to do so. Thus, Bad Aibling cultivated an underground economy for many years, trading in secrets.
The town was home to one of the largest listening stations in the world, a joint effort with the Americans to do intelligence work. Although it closed down in 2004, you can still walk out and see the special listening domes that were used.
Whether you want to see the domes or not, you should still go for a hike here. Another well-kept secret of the area is the high quality of the hiking and trekking available. Bad Aibling is on the lower side of the German Alps, in a former glacial lake crater. You get good climbs as well as good vistas on the trails around the town.
Of course, you will want to be sure to hike to the Hofberg and the Castle Prantseck. Both offer excellent views.
If you are too lazy for more walking, you can then settle into one of the river boat tours of the old town. The Little Venice area is very picturesque, and you can be dropped off to tour the Marienplatz, which is the central market square. The blend of rivers, hills, and cobbled streets is almost — almost — as relaxing as a soak in the spa baths.
