SouthWest Germany: Where Santa goes for his hols
There is nowhere better to rekindle the spirit of Christmas than SouthWest Germany, the federal state of Baden-Württemberg. From the end of November, the start of Advent, think magical Christmas markets, the delicious smell of gingerbread, great one-of-a-kind gifts and uplifting music. New for 2018 is Stuttgart’s spectacular light show. Europa-Park goes all Christmassy, but the famous rides still provide the thrills. As well as its Christmas market, Heidelberg offers the perfect romantic break throughout the winter months. Most atmospheric? 900-year-old Maulbronn Monastery. And all are just a hop away from airports across the UK via Stuttgart’s international airport.
Heidelberg: So romantic in winter
From late November to Christmas Eve, Heidelberg’s Christmas Market fills the streets of the Old Town. But the winter months add an extra dimension for romantic city breaks. To the east, the world-famous castle stands guard, offering views along the Neckar valley. To the west is the mystical Heiligenberg hill, with the "Philosopher's Path" at its feet. Stroll along this riverside walk; enjoy grand city views; warm up afterwards in one of the ancient student pubs along Heidelberg’s main street. www.heidelberg-marketing.de/en.html
A Taste of History: SouthWest Germany's palaces, castles and monasteries
It’s not just SouthWest Germany’s towns and cities that glitter during the Advent season. The region’s impressive palaces, castles and monasteries also host Christmas markets, and the setting could not be more atmospheric: elegant spires set against clear skies; sparkling trees silhouetted against ancient stonework; stalls selling locally-made soaps and liqueurs, honey and cakes. 300-year-old Schwetzingen Palace, a mini-Versailles, opens its courtyard for festively-lit tents (Dec 1-2, 8-9 and 15-16). UNESCO-listed Maulbronn Monastery is equally atmospheric. www.schloesser-und-gaerten.de/en/home/
Europa-Park: Merry Christmas everywhere
Rated “world’s best theme park” for the past four years, winter sees Europa-Park transformed into a wonderland, with 3,000 Christmas trees covered in snow, baubles and twinkling lights. Hurtle through Paris on the brand-new Eurosat - CanCan Coaster and ride Bellevue, the 55-m/180-ft-high Ferris wheel with fabulous views. Enjoy the Circus Revue, just one of the top-class shows, or shop in the Christmas market. One day is never enough, so stay in the park’s five 4* themed hotels. Open Nov 24 – Jan 6; Jan 12-13; closed Dec 24-25. www.europapark.de/en/
Stuttgart: all lit up!
New for 2018 is Stuttgart’s spectacular light show (Nov 28 - Dec 29) on the Schlossplatz, the main square, as well as atmospheric lighting all along Königstrasse, the main street. For four weeks, the historic old inner city will glitter, adding extra sparkle to the 300 tempting market stalls. The big draw? The 3-ft tall “light sculptures” on the Schlossplatz. Each will represent a city icon: the Mercedes-Benz Museum, the Porsche Museum, the TV Tower, the Wilhelma Zoo and Stuttgart’s Beer Festival! www.stuttgart-tourist.de/en/
For further information please get in touch with us directly:
TourComm Germany GmbH & Co. KG
Olbrichtstraße 21
69469 Weinheim, Germany
T +49 (0)6201 / 60208 - 13
F +49 (0)6201 / 60208 - 29
southwestgermany@tourcomm-germany.com
State Tourist Board Baden-Württemberg
Esslinger Strasse 8
70182 Stuttgart, Germany
T +49 (0)711 / 23858 - 0
F +49 (0)711 / 23858 - 99
www.tourism-bw.com
info@tourismus-bw.de
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