If your family has all these different personalities, everyone will want to do something different on the family vacation. And that’s with the assumption that you’ve all agreed on Germany. Of course you have, otherwise you wouldn’t be reading this. ;-)
Well, do I have a town for you. Karstädt in Brandenburg is lucky enough to have both historical sites and outdoorsy things to do — perfect for the most finicky or seasoned traveler.
Karstädt lies within the Biosphärenreservats Flusslandschaft Elbe-Brandenburg. That’s just a long-winded German name for, Holy cow — look at all the local plants and birds.
The Elbe Cycle Path comes through the Biosphere, and it truly is one of the best ways to experience it. I don’t wanna hear you don’t remember how to ride a bike — once you learn, you don’t forget.
Suppose you never learned how to ride a bike? It’s all right, you can always head to Karstädt’s villages to see many of its Village Churches. You’ll find one in Garlin, one in Laaslich, one in Pinnow, and one in Mesekow.
However, it’s the Patronatskirche Stavernow that steals the show. OK, that’s my opinion — but maybe because I see the former glory of the church that was built in 1726 amidst the crumbly brick.
Nah, I’m not the only one since many weddings are held in the ruins.
I like the church in Reckenzin too, with its little windows and imposing tower. The one in Pröttlin is another stunner with its brick and grey stone.
Just as beautiful are Karstädt’s castles. Burg Stavernow doesn’t look like it came from the Middle Ages, but you can stay here since it’s now a guesthouse with a winter garden.
What stands out about Schloss Birkholz are all its windows, and you’ll find Schloss Dallmin right on the Marktplatz.
Last stop is Karstädt’s outdoor pool. They’re totally into the whole family thing, hosting events like the Neptune Festival, the Children Festival, and the Family Festival.
See, didn’t I tell you that you’d find something for every personality in your family? :-)