Franconia

Known locally as the Bäderland Bayerische Rhön, this district unites five neighbouring spa towns: Bad Bocklet, Bad Kissingen, Bad Brückenau, Bad Königshofen and Bad Neustadt.

The small, idyllic spa town of Bad Berneck lies in the picturesque Ölschnitz Valley. Here you can discover more about Kneipp’s traditional teachings either during the renowned water treading exercise or along the Kneipp educational trail.

The earliest record of the small Baroque town of Allersberg dates from 1254. The market square with its impressive buildings has to this day maintained its Baroque character.

Werneck Palace was built as a summer residence for the prince-bishop by the famous master builder and architect Balthasar Neumann. It is considered a real gem among the palaces of southern Germany.

When the sound of music wafts through the evening air in the court garden in Ansbach, then one thing is certain: the festival season has begun.

The baroque town of Wiesentheid is a real treasure trove. Reflections of a grand past are chronicled by numerous townhouses and the impressive Baroque ensemble comprising Schönborn Palace, the town hall and the Church of St. Mauritius.

In Bad Brückenau with its Staatsbad or ‘State Spa’ destination, you can walk in the footsteps of the Bavarian king Ludwig I who once had his summer residence here.

Bad Steben with its casino and Staatsbad or ‘State Spa’ destination has had a long and distinguished past. Features in the town’s modern spa include a Wellness Dome and a sauna complex that features a natural pond for bathing in.

In Ansbach you can find out more about the mysterious life of the foundling Kaspar Hauser, who lived here from 1830 until his violent death in 1833. Every two years, a Kaspar Hauser Festival is held in the town.

Alzenau Castle is one of the finest late Gothic buildings in Franconia and is the town of Alzenau’s dominant landmark that can be seen from afar. It once served as the seat of administration for the Electors of Mainz.

The changing landscape and the numerous regional specialities bring together the very best of Franconia and Thuringia in the holiday region of Coburg.Rennsteig.

The monument town of Fürth certainly lives up to its name. It emerged from the Second World War relatively unscathed and today features more than 2000 preserved historical monuments.

Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the restored ruins of Thierstein Castle with its impressive tower offers wonderful views of the village of Thierstein and the Fichtel Mountains Nature Park.

Colmberg Castle is perched on top of a hill overlooking the village of the same name. It’s one of the best preserved medieval structures in Franconia. The castle has been in private hands since 1880.

The German Steam Locomotive Museum in Neuenmarkt provides an exciting insight into the history and the technology of steam engines and the history of the railways in Upper Franconia.