The Swabian Mountains

The Swabian Mountains offer plenty of cultural and recreational opportunities, as well as local dishes and spa resorts that refresh and revive. Think of a vacation that might include hiking, visiting a fairy-tale castle, exploring underground caves, and eating classic local dishes. That’s all part of the Swabian Mountain experience.

Unspoiled nature: the Swabian Mountains

The green, unspoiled Swabian Mountains are so important that they have been recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. But you can also have great adventures here: explore more than 2,000 underground caves, such as Charlotte’s Cave (Charlottenhöhle), near Giengen an der Brenz. Stretching for 2,000 ft/587 m, this is full of impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Hike along the 8,000 miles/13,000 km long network of trails in the Upper Danube. Or go climbing and canoeing in the Danube Valley.

From fossils and castles to grand palaces

When it comes to castles and fortresses, this is one of Germany’s richest regions, with the impressive Hohenzollern Castle, the oh-so-romantic Lichtenstein Castle, and the medieval Staufen Castle. And, you can go back even further into the past. The geology museums are crammed with local finds dating back to the dawn of man.

Swabian Mountain dishes

The rolling uplands are perfect for raising sheep, so lamb is a major ingredient in popular local dishes.

Well-being and relaxation

The Swabian Mountains are known for their thermal baths, wellness hotels and hydrotherapy facilities. The thermal baths in Bad Urach and Beuren are perfect for keeping the body and soul in balance.