Back Roads Germany (Dk Eyewitness Travel Back Roads)

Introducing Germany 9

Introducing Germany

Germany is a country of marked contrasts,

and this is nowhere more apparent than in its

geographic diversity. Modern cities of glass

and steel sit only a few minutes away from

thickly wooded forests dotted with romantic

castles. Germany’s combination of multicultural

cities, historic architecture, and charming

medieval villages set in breathtakingly

beautiful countryside make it an ideal vacation

destination. The country’s main road network

is extensive and well maintained, but it is

the smaller roads that lead into the heart of

the region. Here, through castles, villages, and

magnificent palaces, Germany’s rich history is

waiting to be discovered. Take a break to

sample some exceptional wines – the most

famous vineyards are in the western part of the

country, especially the Pfalz and Rheinhessen

regions – or take time to admire the natural

landscape, from the stunning beauty of the

German Alps to the myriad glacial lakes in

the Müritz Nationalpark.

When to Go
The itinerary for each of the drives
suggests the best times of the year
to make the trip, based on the
region. Visits to cities and historic
buildings are best made in the
spring or early fall as it can

get very hot in summer. However,
July and August are the ideal months
for a vacation by the sea or one of
the numerous lakes. Winter offers
skiing in the Alps, southern Germany,
the Black Forest, or the Harz
Mountains. The country also hosts
numerous events throughout the
year, which makes a visit worthwhile
during any seasons. In fall, visitors
can participate in traditional folkloric
festivals such as Freimarkt
in Bremen, which is held in mid-
October. In December, festive
Christmas markets are held all over

the country. They are particularly
charming in southern German cities
with historic town centers and are
good places to pick up souvenirs
and presents.

Left Panoramic view of Königstein village from
its mountain fortress, Bavaria

October (fall vacations). Roads can

get particularly busy around Easter

and national public holidays. To

enjoy a stress-free trip, it is best to

avoid driving at these times of the

year. A visit to northern and eastern

Germany between November and

late February can be unpleasant due

to harsh winter winds and low

temperatures. Ice, rain, and sleet

make it challenging to drive and

uncomfortable for sightseeing.

Festivals

Nearly every town and village hosts

a parade, street shows, concerts, and

fairs. These include folk festivals

connected to local traditions, such as

the asparagus or grape harvest. In

April and May, the first spring fairs are

held. It is also time for the solemn

observance of Easter. In June, a

Times to Avoid
In late July and August, it can get
very hot, especially in the
southwestern regions. The busiest
period is during the school breaks,
which see a great surge in traffic
levels. These are set independently

in each state and take place in early
April (Easter vacations), July and
August (summer vacations) and

Above Half-timbered buildings, Limburg an der Lahn, Hesse

Public Holidays

New Year’s Day (Jan 1)

Epiphany (Jan 6)

Easter Sunday and Monday

Liberation Day (Apr 16)

Labour Day (May 1)

Republic Day (Jun 2)

Reunification of Germany

Day (Oct 3)

All Souls Day (Nov 1)

Immaculate Conception of the

Blessed Virgin Mary (Dec 8)

Christmas (Dec 25/26)

number of classical music events take

place and July is a popular month for

lively wine and beer festivals. January

and February are the Carnival season

while December is synon ymous with

Christmas celebrations.