Adventures by the Water in SouthWest Germany

Here in SouthWest Germany, we love summer. And since our region is the sunniest in Germany, summer is perfect for spending time on our lakes and rivers. We are proud of the cleanliness and quality of our waters: they are safe and fun for the whole family. But they offer even more. Just gazing at the water soothes our senses; the sound of splashing reduces stress. We feel calmer and happier! And wherever you are in SouthWest Germany, you are never far from a place to swim or get out in a boat. Explore rivers and islands, try paddle boarding, go birdwatching in the marshes, savor the views on a classy river cruise, discover secret spots where Mother Nature rules. Here are six of our favorites for the summer time!

Flowing through the historic town of Heilbronn, the Neckar River is an oasis of green. On the riverbank, order a coffee from the stall on the beach (yes, there are beaches on the river!). Rent an SUP (stand-up paddle board), a pedalo/paddle boat, or a motorboat and get out on the water. For something funky, rent an inflatable boat, complete with a mini BBQ and sound system on board! For sheer relaxation, the beer garden has its own lawn for sunbathing. Stretch out under the weeping willows and plane trees, kick back in a deck chair, and look across to the nature reserve with its ancient oxbow lake. One hour north of Stuttgart.

*Our Summer Tip* 
Get a different perspective. On a guided canoe tour, learn about Heilbronn’s rich history as you paddle gently along the Neckar River.

Located on the famous Rhine River, Mannheim is Southwest Germany's third largest city. But it has a big surprise: a secret island called "Reissinsel". A century ago, local industrialist Carl Reiss turned its 100 ha / 250 acres island into a bird sanctuary. From July to February, locals and visitors can walk through the protected habitat for rare species. For the remaining four months of the year, the island is closed to allow the birds to breed in peace. From the parking lot, a 4.3-km / 3-mile circular path takes in lush green meadows and gnarled old trees. Woodpeckers knock on bark; geese and ducks snooze; the undergrowth rustles mysteriously; frogs leap across the path. Beyond the bushes you can see barges on the busy Rhine. This island is situated on a tributary; so close to modern life, yet so far away. 1,5 hours northwest of Stuttgart.

*Our Summer Tip* 
Spot wild grapes growing there, ancestors of the modern wine grape!

The Danube is one of the world's great rivers. And in the beautiful, ancient city of Ulm, getting out on the water is a way of life. Canoeing has long been popular, but in recent years stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) has become increasingly popular. Both provide lovely views of the Minster, with the world's tallest church spire (161.5 m / 530 ft). Beyond the greenery of the riverbank are the rooftops of the Fischerviertel, the charming old fishermen's quarter, with its half-timbered houses and footbridges. All this is on the left side of the Danube. On the opposite bank is Neu-Ulm, whose architecture dates mainly from the 19th century. 1 hour southeast of Stuttgart.

*Our Summer Tip*
To hear stories of the city's rich heritage, join a guided SUP tour, then go out and explore on your own!

Rust is home to Europa-Park, one of the world's best theme parks. Not far from the rides and entertainment is Taubergiessen, one of Europe's most important nature reserves. Situated along the mighty Rhine River, its 1,700 ha / 4,200 acres are one of Germany's last wilderness wetlands. Learn about the rich biodiversity on a two-hour tour aboard a traditional flat-bottomed punt. As you glide through the jungle-like landscape, expert guides point out kingfishers and orioles, marsh beavers, dragonflies and coots. The guides use a long paddle to propel and steer the boat, just as their fishermen ancestors have done for centuries. Except for the chirping of birds, all is still and quiet. These unforgettable tours are offered from April to October. 2 hours southwest of Stuttgart.

*Our Summer Tip* 
Be sure to visit the meadow where rare orchids bloom in the summer.

The Federsee is vast, covering 3,000 ha / 7,500 acres. Think reeds and water meadows, bogs and moors, all carefully preserved. This watery world is home to more than 270 species of birds, 600 species of butterflies, 10 species of rare orchids and 700 species of plants. It is also an important stopover for birds on their migratory journeys. No wonder nature lovers come here. As they stroll along nature trails, follow wooden boardwalks and climb observation towers, they spot rare species and add to the list of life. Unique in Europe is the 1.4-km /1-mile-long wooden boardwalk that leads from the small town of Bad Buchau to the reserve. 1.5 hours southeast of Stuttgart, one hour north of Lake Constance.

*Our Summer Tip* 
NABU, the German Association for Nature Conservation, offers excellent guided hikes.

The Neckar River has a lot to offer: locks and vineyards, lush forests and grassy meadows. And the best way to see it all is on a small Neckar-Käpt'n cruise boat. Running regularly throughout the day, most trips start and end at the Wilhelma Zoo in Bad Cannstatt, a suburb of Stuttgart. The classic excursion is the 6-hour round trip from Stuttgart to Marbach. The route from Marbach to Besigheim includes views of the spectacular Felsengärten cliffs near Besigheim. Onboard hospitality includes regional food and produce, wines from the vineyards you pass, and ice cream for the kids. The latest addition to the fleet is Electra, an electric boat that reflects the eco-friendly attitude of Southwest Germany.

*Our Summer Tip* 
Book a memorable themed event, from wine tastings and sunset cruises to live music, dancing and pirate cruises for kids!

neckar-kaeptn.de/en