When most people imagine Germany, they think beer, schnitzel, pretzels and castles. In addition to a great food and cultural scene, the nation also boasts some of the most stunning scenery in Europe. Whether you live in Germany or are visiting, here are seven of the most breathtaking national parks in Germany.
Most Breathtaking National Parks In Germany
1. Saxon Switzerland National Park
Smack dab on the border of Germany and the Czech Republic, you’ll find one of the most beautiful areas in Germany – Saxon Switzerland National Park. Made up of unique rock formations, picturesque bridges, plunging canyons and rolling hills, its beauty is unrivalled. Stroll one of the hiking trails or set up for a picnic at one of the many stunning lookouts.
2. Berchtesgaden National Park
Berchtesgaden National Park in southern Germany is a mountain-lovers dream. Never-ending snowy peaks tower over the massive lake, Kongssee and dense forests blanket the area. It checks all the boxes for a mountain adventure with peaceful flowery meadows, crystal clear streams, wildlife, mile-high trees and an abundance of trails.
3. Bavarian Forest National Park
In south-east Germany, you’ll find Bavaria, home to lush forests, untouched wilderness and the countries first national park. Bavarian Forest National Park is one of the best in the nation and has more than 300 kilometres of walking trails that wind through the parks dense forest. The forest is the main attraction and accounts for 95% of the park, but there is also a wildlife enclosure for animal lovers who wish to observe the local species.
4. Jasmund National Park
Jasmund National Park is situated in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and is known for its stunning cliffs. Chalky white walls stand against the sparkling blue waters of the Baltic Sea below and make it one of the nations most visited areas. In addition to the stunning cliffsides, the area is full of thick woods and hiking trails.
5. Hainich National Park
The Hainich Forest in Thuringia is Europe’s largest untouched area of forest. The Hainich Forest National Park is home to pristine woods rich with wildlife, unique trees and peaceful rivers. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some local wildlife such as black storks and wildcats.
6. Western-Pomerania Boddenlandschaft National Park
The Western-Pomerania Boddenlandschaft National Park is on the Baltic Coast in northeast Germany. It is the perfect mash-up of the brisk Baltic coast and fairytale woodlands. In addition to a charming lighthouse and accessible viewpoints, it comes complete with tonnes of cliffs, dunes and lagoons.
7. Harz National Park
History and nature go hand in hand at Harz National Park which sits on the former border of East and West Germany. In addition to the areas rich history, the majority of the landscape is untouched, raw wilderness covered nearly entirely in forest. It is also home to some pretty interesting animals such as the racoon dog (you read that correctly), swirly horned mouflons and the ever-elusive lynx.
