Lake Constance – lovingly called “BODENSEE” by local residents – is the perfect place for your holiday. Refreshingly classic in nature, this European destination marks the crossroads of four magnificent countries – Germany, Switzerland, Austria and the Principality of Liechtenstein – for year-round retreats that awaken all human senses.

The Lake Constance region combines nostalgic cultural traditions such as ‘Fasnacht’ (carnival), dotted with baroque castles and churches, luscious gardens, fruit orchards and vineyards. The Lake glimmers in all shades of blue, green and turquoise all against the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped Alpine peaks. For a change of perspective on Lake Constance guests can enjoy the panorama from a bird’s eye view from state-of-the-art zeppelins (airships) which rise to 1000 ft. Stroll around Mainau, the island of flowers or be amazed by the masses of water thundering down the Rhine Falls.

Foodie delight; freshly caught whitefish, fresh aromatic vegetables from the UNESCO protected island of Reichenau, a savoury cheese fondue or a glass of local Müller-Thurgau wine enjoyed in the warm evening sun – and each offering is as exquisite as the next.

For the adventurist, it is possible to see all four countries in just one day: a visit to medieval Meersburg castle in Germany can be followed by cycling across the rolling landscape of the Swiss shore before admiring the spectacular view from the ‘Pfänder’ mountain in Austria, then visiting the Museum of Art in the Principality of Liechtenstein. Those wishing to spend some real, quality time discovering more about the culture in each individual country can, of course, take it a little easier.

The ‘Holiday Pass of Lake Constance’ offers a world of possibilities and is not to be missed, granting access to a great wealth of attractions; 160 in total! From museums to castles and from mountains to theme parks and swimming pools. Families with children who love to travel find joy in up-close experiences with animal life surrounding the Lake; including the Barbary Apes of Affenberg Salem (Germany) who will – tamely – take popcorn straight from your hand! Even the Lake’s transport is in a league of its own offering panoramic views along the way whilst criss-crossing the Lake by boat or exploring the shores by rail or road.

With rich cultural links and activities galore there’s never a dull moment on Lake Constance. Traditional at heart, the Lake is home to painters, poets and pioneers (such as Count von Zeppelin) akin, as well as a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites which, individually, make for privileged days out. Couple that with a great wealth of all-ability outdoor activities – from leisurely countryside walks to refreshing bike rides and canoeing across the Lake’s waters – you can do anything and everything you like!

Lake Constance is also the ideal, serene place for harmonious relaxation with offerings of slow food, professional massages, spa hopping and natural moor-baths. The thermal spas in Meersburg, Constance and Überlingen have teamed up to alleviate the stresses of daily life in order for guests to unwind and re-charge all body, mind and soul back into shape in the stunning setting that is Lake Constance.

When, eventually, the bathing season concludes and the year begins to draw in, the Lake reverts to its native peace and quiet and becomes the ideal place for winding-down. Within close proximity to magnificent snow-guaranteed pistes and spectacular valley views, guests are welcomed to relax, ski and as time progresses, visit lakeside Christmas markets, becoming emerged in the exceptional atmosphere of the Alemannic Carnival as a pre-lent tradition.

Photo: Bodenseegarten in Lindau, © Helmut Scham, Verein Bodenseegärten