Days out in Germany
1. Glasbläser Hof
This amazing glass blowing factory, museum, restaurant and shop are situated in Todtnau-Aftersteg. Learn the traditional methods of glassblowing and the modern methods too! Watch the daily demonstrations and then wander around the shop at the end where you have the chance to purchase some of the amazing glasswork.
2. Eifelpark - Bitburg
This theme park is divided into two sections, the extended playground and the zoo. The playground has a great number of attractions; there are roller coasters, water rides, a maze, inflatables and also the usual playground equipment such as swings and slides etc. The zoo has many different animals and also puts on a falconry show. This is a day out which appeals greatly to children.
www.eifelpark.de/3. Schiltach
Schiltach is a very old, quaint, typically German village. Some of the buildings date from as far back as the 13th century. Previous Canvas holidaymakers in this area have highly recommended Café Bachbeck for the best 'Black Forest Gateaux' around. Worth a visit.
4. Europa Park
Europa Park is a huge theme park near Freiberg which has everything to keep you entertained for days! There are, of course, the rides, some fast and exciting, others slow and relaxing. Then there are many other attractions including 'Mykanos' the Greek village, the Europa Park Dome, the Magical Garden, the Beer Garden and 'Nobbis Aqua Scooter'. Europa Park is also the starting point of the Tour de Suisse and is one of the largest solar plants in Europe.
www.europapark.de/5. Triberg - Waterfalls
Germany's highest waterfalls attract many visitors each year. You can choose from three different paths to walk along through the woods by the waterfall, look out for the tame red squirrels! The greenery and fresh clear water tumbling down the rocks really are breathtaking.
6. The Moselle River
A drive down the Moselle River is definitely not to be missed. Following the river south will see you at the medieval castle Bury Eltz and then you will come across five very picturesque towns; Cochem, Traben-Trarbach, Zell, Bernkastel-Kues and Bad-Biertich. All along the river there are places for wine tasting and scenic cycle routes.
7. Trier
Trier is the oldest city in Germany. For a potted version of the sights you can take the children's train around the old town. Sights include a very well preserved Roman gate, Roman amphitheatre, gothic church and cathedral with beautiful stone angels in the central courtyard. There is a pink walled gothic palace which belonged to a local Prince, a Roman basilica and lots of shops including bookshops with English books. Ask at the local Tourist Office for a guide for evening entertainment as there are usually lots of concerts on.
www.trier.de/8. Puppenmuseum
This doll museum in the little town of Nordrach has over 1000 dolls on show. The dolls have been arranged into around thirty different scenes; from working on the farm to picnics in the summer, with exotic dolls from many countries of the world this is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
www.nordrach.de/9. Black Forest Open Air Museum
In the Black Forest Open Air Museum you will find impressive Black Forest farms from the 16th century, which impart a living picture of life and toil in the past centuries. Sawmills and hammer mills are on display. Don't miss the beautiful gardens when you visit the Open Air Museum.
www.vogtsbauernhof.org/