Bad Urach on the Swabian Alb is remarkable, if anything. There is so much to see and do in this “bath” air-health resort town, that a month of Sundays isn’t enough time to see and do it all.
Historical old sites on the Alb are plenty, but under no circumstances should anyone miss the 15th century church of St. Amandus; which many believe is a true testament to the ingenuity of German stone masons. Over at the Klostermühle or Monastery Mill (a former corn mill), is a wonderful City Museum with special exhibits added throughout the year.
But, in this magnificent area of Baden-Württemberg it’s the castles (or, the ruins of castles) that many come to see. At Hohenurach Castle, built in 1443, you can have a tour by a period garb wearing guide. It helps in keeping with the Renaissance feel.
Other castles to see, albeit in ruins, is the 12th century Castle Baldeck, the 11th century Hohenwittlingen, and the 12th century Burg Seeburg. But, for all those ruins it’s the Burg Runderberg that you really need to see. It’s not just that this castle was built as far back as the 7th century, but it’s on the walking trail that takes you over to the Urach Waterfall.
The natural countryside in the area is incredibly beautiful (as to be expected — again, this is the Swabian Alb!). One of the more popular “sports” is the exploration of caves. Whether you call it caving or spelunking — it doesn’t matter cause many of the caves were created by long extinct volcanoes.
If cave diving isn’t your idea of a good time, then maybe you’ll enjoy a balloon ride over the countryside. Or, golf, paddle boating, Nordic Walking (many levels of difficulty if you’re a beginner), tennis, skating, walks through the Alb, or relaxing in the thermal mineral baths. Plenty for everyone of all ages to be equally engaged — have some fun or just plain old relax.
If you come in the summer of an odd-numbered year then you’re in for a real special treat. The Shepard’s Run (Schäferlauf, held in July) is the ultimate of a city celebration with traditional clothing, food, music, and everything else you need to have a jolly good time.
Bad Urach holds the Music Days Festival annually, though. Held at the end of September/beginning of October, be prepared to enjoy numerous concerts for all types of music lovers.
Whoever said that life is hard here on the Alb, certainly never visited Bad Urach. ;-)