Protected nature
More than 100 national parks, biosphere reserves, geoparks and nature parks in Germany are home to impressive natural treasures that visitors can explore sustainably on foot or by bike, by bus and train, by boat or even by wagon. Unspoilt landscapes, rare animal and plant species and fascinating views by day and by night: welcome to Germany's nature!
All of the regions presented here have been recognised as sustainable travel destinations by TourCert thanks to their extensive measures.
Picturesque cliffs in Saxon Switzerland
With bizarre rock formations, deep gorges and the perfect balance of nature conservation and leisure, the Saxon Switzerland National Park region invites you to enjoy a sustainable holiday. Climbers conquer rock towers without the use of artificial aids (in line with Saxon climbing regulations), and hikers are drawn to the impressive Bastei Bridge – or take the historic Kirnitzsch Valley Tramway down into the romantic valley. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy the mystical landscape of the Oberen Schleuse , for example. Lichens and trees cling to the steep rocky banks here.
24-hour panoramic views in the Rhön
During the day, the Rhön boasts panoramic views over raised bogs, boulder heaps and windswept trees. The HOCHRHÖNER® premium hiking trail connects many of this region's highlights and is the perfect way to experience the landscape.
If anything, it gets even more beautiful at night: parts of the UNESCO biosphere reserve are a dark sky reserve. The Milky Way and cosmic nebulae can be seen here with the naked eye, away from artificial light. The "Green Belt"offers a glimpse into the past: nowadays, natural biotopes along the former inner-German border can be explored by bike or on foot.
500 lakes in the Uckermark by caravan
Just 80 kilometres from Berlin, the Uckermark is a paradise for rare animal and plant species with its forest moors, floodplains and more than 500 lakes. Over half of this sparsely-populated region consists of protected landscapes, including the Lower Oder Valley National Park, the Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve and the Uckermark Lakes Nature Park.
The region, which won the first national competition as a sustainable tourism destination in 2013, offers a wide range of opportunities for nature-based relaxation: from paddling tours through the lakes to holiday apartments in historic buildings and stays in traditional caravans.
Hiking taxi in Siegen-Wittgenstein
Siegen-Wittgenstein, part of the Sauerland Rothaargebirge Nature Park, is the most densely wooded district in Germany – almost three quarters of the area is forested. Nestled inside, idyllic villages with lovingly restored half-timbered houses invite you to immerse yourself in local traditions and culture. The premium hiking resort of Bad Berleburgis the perfect starting point for an exploratory tour. Many hiking routes intersect in the surrounding area, and a hiking taxi is available to take you to the starting points of more distant destinations. Further south, the 17th century Alte Vogtei in Burbach , with its accessible history museum, is a popular destination.
Natural treasures and sites for the soul in the Sauerland
With its dense forests, expansive meadows and clear lakes, the low mountain range landscape of the Sauerland offers a variety of natural experiences. The renaturalised Lippe floodplains with their rich fauna are a popular cycling area, while lovers of geology are drawn to the imposing Bruchhauser Steine rock formation. Eleven hiking villagesare a special highlight and, with more than 4,000 kilometres of uniformly signposted hiking trails linking them, help form the largest German quality hiking region. What's more, each village has its own favourite spots, ranging from 100-year-old abandoned farmhouses to monasteries – perfect for holistic relaxation.
Get up and go in the northern Black Forest
The "boot trips" in the northern Black Forest are the perfect introduction to long-distance hiking – with diverse landscapes, dedicated hosts and delicious regional cuisine. The "wellness hike" starting in Bad Liebenzell combines the healing powers of the springs with healthy exercise. The "culinary delights" route from Calw attracts visitors with regional delicacies along the Nagold river, and "Gäu meets Black Forest" leads from the fertile Gäu landscape to the tree-covered heights of the northern Black Forest. All tours can be booked as packages to include accommodation and breakfast.