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Discover the Swabian Alb

July 31, 2012

The rolling, alpine hills in south-western Germany boast more castles than just about anywhere else in the country.

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The rolling, alpine hills in south-western Germany boast more castles than just about anywhere else in the country.
Image: picture alliance / DUMONT Bildarchiv

Countless palaces and manor houses are scattered across the Swabian Alb region, attesting to its rich history. The Hohenzollern Castle and Sigmaringen Palace are among the most intriguing - and anyone who feels like reliving days of yore can head to Haigerloch Castle, which has been converted into a hotel.

Historically, the Swabian Alb region was seen as rugged, too dry and almost impossible to farm. Today, the countryside is largely unspoiled and attracts energetic holidaymakers who enjoy climbing and hiking.

Castle Lichtenstein in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany
Castle Lichtenstein is just one of many scattered across the Swabian Alb regionImage: picture alliance / Arco Images GmbH

The landmark Ulm Minster testifies to the legendary Swabian pride, as its construction in the 14th century was paid for by the citizens of Ulm. Measuring 161,53 meters (530 feet), it has the tallest church steeple in the world.

Click on the video below to join Thomas Sterzing, a medical doctor from Rottweil, on a personalized tour of the Swabian Alb. Sterzing likes to spend as much time as possible outdoors and one of his tips for exploring the area is to go on a hang-gliding tour.

Recommended - Three Tips for a Trip to the Swabian Alb

From Visit Germany

Editor: Kate Bowen

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