A holiday packed with experiences
One of Europe's best-known lakes lies in three countries at once – Austria, Switzerland and Germany. Come and see how varied it is. Enjoy the clean beauty of the landscape here, the rich history of the towns around it and the endless range of things to do on the shore and on the water.
The Bodensee in summer: sparkling turquoise water, monuments and cycling
The Austrian part of the lake is in the east, where you also find Bregenz, the capital of Vorarlberg. Come here with children. The long beach and the crystal-clear water at around 26 °C will delight them and you. Boat services are busy on the lake, and so are keen sailors and windsurfers. Explore the shore by bike on the main cycle route around it, and ride further afield, for example to the Rhine Falls. Or go hiking and get to know one of the lake islands or the historic towns of the region. Do not miss the flower island of Mainau with its arboretums, butterflies and zoo, or Bregenz itself. An opera on the lake stage here is not something you forget.
The Bodensee in winter: magical winter scenery and snow-covered towns
There is plenty to do by the Bodensee in winter too. The milder weather means the lake rarely freezes, and the contrast between the moving water and the snow-covered peaks makes a fine natural spectacle. The nearby Alpine resorts are good for skiing, and winter hiking is just as rewarding. Visit Konstanz, the city of Jan Hus, or the German island of Lindau, which consists entirely of the historic town of the same name. In nearby Friedrichshafen you take to the sky: a flight in a Zeppelin airship is not on offer anywhere else, and you will want to know more about these flying giants. The remarkable Zeppelin Museum waits for you on the ground.
Accommodation in the area
Accommodation at the Bodensee matches the holiday character of the area. You will find hotels and Pensionen of both standard and top quality, as well as a wide choice of camping and campsites aimed at cyclists. There are also holiday houses and apartments to rent, including for larger groups.
Typical food in the area
Cooking around the Bodensee combines the closeness of the water with the traditions of the three countries that meet here. In Gasthöfe and Michelin restaurants alike you can eat freshly caught trout or pike-perch. Traditional cheese Spätzle made with Alpine milk and first-class sausages do not disappoint. Anyone with a sweet tooth will enjoy Riebel, made from maize flour, a well-known Vorarlberg speciality.
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