The charm of southern Germany ­ La Dolce Vita on the edge of the Alps

At the point where southern Germany, northern Switzerland and western Austria converge, lies Europe's third largest lake, picturesque Lake Constance. Palm trees along its waterfront promenades, vineyards and apple orchards on the gentle shorebound slopes, attractive baroque towns and the majestic Alps in the background. Experience the region's cosmopolitan diversity, exceptionally mild climate and maritime dolce vita. Mediterranean feel on Mainau Island.

Mainau, Reichenau and Lindau

The Flower Island of Mainau is known far beyond Germany's frontiers. Blessed with long hours of sunshine, it is famous for its magnificent park and gardens surrounding the baroque family residence of Count Bernadotte. In 1936 Count Lennart Bernadotte af Wisborg transformed the island into the floral paradise that we see today. Reichenau Island is one of the many cultural treasures within the German portion of Lake Constance. Its three Romanesque churches have been UNESCO World Heritage sites since 2000. A magnificent avenue of poplars connects the island to the mainland. The third island on Lake Constance is the Bavarian harbour town of Lindau ­ the perfect place to while away the hours with its promenade, pretty harbour, medieval centre, casino and other places of entertainment.

Constanz

The Celts may have been the first to settle in the town of Constance, but it was Romans who left traces that are visible today. An imposing Roman fort is one of the main landmarks of this university town. Parts of the old fortifications can also be viewed in an underground museum. For those wishing to delve deeper into the colourful history of Lake Constance's largest town, there are many fascinating attractions such as the Minster of Our Lady and the cloister of the former Dominican monastery. At the harbour, you can visit the building on stilts where the Council of Constance was held from 1414 to 1418. The only papal election north of the Alps also took place here.

Meersburg

On the opposite shores of the lake amid vineyard scenery lies the town of Meersburg. From afar, the skyline is dominated by its medieval castle ­ the oldest inhabited castle in Germany ­ and baroque palace. It's easy to see why Germany's most famous female poet, Annette von Droste-Hülshoff, chose to live here. Also of interest is the baroque pilgrimage church and abbey at Birnau.

Überlingen

The former imperial town of Überlingen is one of Germany's most southerly towns, which gives it above-average annual sunshine and a near mediterranean lakeside climate. These mild conditions favour the magnificent plant and flower displays along the pretty promenade, at the spa gardens and most notably in the municipal park with its captivating outdoor cacti. A real highlight is the town's Gartenkulturpfad (garden trail). Überlingen is Germany's southernmost Kneipp health spa with more than 50 years of tradition in this field of hydrotherapy and naturopathic medicine.

Friedrichshafen

On 2 July 2021 the very first zeppelin went airborne over Friedrichshafen making aviation history. The story of the famous airship is brought to life in the Zeppelin Museum and you can even go on a sightseeing flight around Lake Constance: a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Salem

Salem Palace is well worth a visit with nearly 900 years of history, art and wine making. Nestling in the scenic Linzgau countryside, the extensive buildings and grounds give a real impression of the wealth of the former Cistercian monastery.

Activities on Lake Constance

Whether on land or water, Lake Constance is a dream destination for active holidaymakers. Cycling and inline skating are great ways to explore the 273 kilometres of coastline in three different countries. Scaling the heights of the Pfänder and the Säntis Alps rewards you with breathtaking views of the lake. There is a wide range of water sports on offer including canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, speed boating, waterskiing and diving.

Gourmet Lake Constance

Variety is the hallmark of Lake Constance cuisine, which is hardly surprising given the influences of Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Liechtenstein and the rich array of local produce. Fish dishes are a particular speciality. Fruit of the finest quality is grown here and is used for making spirits. Award-winning wines are produced by the vineyards overlooking the lake.