Over forty years ago the hamlet of Birkendorf won the coveted “Unser Dorf soll schöner werden,” or Our Village is Beautiful contest.
Let me tell you something… Even though it’s now known as the town of Ühlingen-Birkendorf, it hasn’t lost any of its luster.
See, some things get better with age. Ok, maybe the fact that Ühlingen-Birkendorf lies within the gorgeous southern Black Forest has something to do with it. ;-)
That just makes it wonderful to all sorts of outdoorsy stuff, wouldn’t you say? Winter’s just a good as season as any, so be sure to wear something warm as you’re out skiing (both downhill and cross-country), snowshoeing, or just take a winter hike.
Of course if you’d prefer it a bit warmer — then you’ve got other recreational fun to have. The Naturena Badesee, for starters, is a “forested” pool, where you can jump from rocks or play some beach volleyball. Oh, and the water is purified naturally — so no harsh chemicals.
Those wishing to stay dry could try the toboggan run (super fun careening down the mountainside), give a lake cruise a whirl, or visit the animals at the nearby Black Forest Animal Park. Listen, the Rothauser Land (as it’s known around here) has lots to offer the whole family — especially if they like hiking, cycling, or a game of miniature golf.
Ühlingen-Birkendorf is also great if you love a good beer. You’re close enough to the Staatsbrauerei Rothaus, a place that’s been brewing German beer goodness for more than 200 years. Call ahead for an appointment to see how the whole modern day operation works.
And what’s beer without some kind of celebration to drink it? Ühlingen-Birkendorf has all sorts of festive events — right down to the Witches Ball, Rosenmontag Parades, the Osterfest, and the wonderful Tanz in den Mai (Dance into May) celebrations.
Yes, Ühlingen-Birkendorf, you’re still gorgeous after all these years — and I think you’ll just keep getting better and better as more time goes on.
