Swabian Alb

The Swabian Alb offers 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 Alb experience.

Schloss Lichtenstein steht auf einem Felsvorsprung. Im Hintergrund sind viele Bäume.

Lichstenstein Castle © Susi Maier, www.blackdotswhitespots.com

| © Susi Maier
Hinter einer Brücke verläuft ein Fluß. Am Geländer hängen viele Blumen. Im Hintergrund reihen sich mehrere Häuser aneinander.
Auf einem langen Stab ist ein Knochen von früheren Ausgrabungen festgeschraubt. Der Stab steht in der Mitte des Raumes. Der Boden ist weiß und der Hintergrund schwarz.

Unspoiled nature: the Swabian Alb

The green, unspoiled Swabian Alb is so important that it has been recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and, in 2015, as the UNESCO Global Geopark Swabian Alb. In 2017, Swabia’s Caves and Ice Age Art were added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Site lists. Some of the world’s oldest carvings, found in the Lonetal (valley of the River Lone) and the Achtal (valley of the Ach), are now in museums. However, you can still explore half a dozen of these remote, atmospheric caves. Other great adventures here include hiking 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 Alb 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 Alb is known for its 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.

Attractions on the Swabian Alb

Attractions on the Swabian Alb