While it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the schoolwork, don’t forget that Germany doesn’t run out of beautiful places where you can stop by and relax. National parks dot the country’s 16 federal states, some mountainous, some coastal, and they all preserve landscapes and wildlife for our enjoyment. There are so many breathtaking sites you can visit during your time in Germany as a student. Sit back and ready your travel bucket list, as here are some of Germany’s most gorgeous national parks you can go to when you feel like taking a break from academics.
1. Eifel National Park
This 27,000-acre expanse of beech, wildflower-speckled plateaus wild, cherry trees, ash, and dark blue volcanic lakes, is one of Germany’s few wild areas remaining. Rare orchid species bloom in woodland clearings in the park’s south, and uncommon birds of prey such as eagle owls and kites can be spotted circling on the thermals. “Sense benches are” hidden amid the trees in some places of the park, inviting you to relax, lie down, and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of this magnificent location.
2. Harz National Park
Although virtually uninhabited, the Harz National Park in north-central Germany stretches to 62,000 acres of woodland, rivers, and mountain peaks. A tiny but stable population of lynx, European wildcat, roe, and red deer roam within these woods, as well as a small population of capercaillie.
3. Berchtesgaden National Park
A vast area of jagged limestone peaks, rising over a gem-blue glacial lake, covering 52,000 acres gives you scenery of the Alps, unlike others. All this, while experiencing this view without any other person in sight. Unless you’re in the National Park Centre’s architectural glass box or exploring the park with one of the site rangers. On the other hand, you have a patchwork of Alpine pastures all to yourself, with breathtaking views of glittering lakes, and cloud-towering peaks. Keep an eye out for golden eagles, horned ibex, and a variety of butterfly species that flutter around to pollinate wild orchids.
4. Saxon Switzerland National Park
In Germany’s far eastern region you will find The Saxon Switzerland National Park, which covers more than 89,000 acres of the Elbe Sandstone Massif, and unusual rock formations dating way back to the Cretaceous Period. There, you can witness a unique and dynamic landscape, ranging from sandstone cliffs to deeply carved valleys, gorges, and table mountains.
5. Lower Oder Valley National Park
This corner of the world is a popular resting and wintering spot for birds, and twitchers, with other wildlife enthusiasts going here in droves every year. The breathtaking view of over 13,000 cranes dropping to their migration roosts makes it an unforgettable spot for tourists and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The Lower Oder Valley National Park is special because it is Germany’s first riverfront meadow national park, spanning 60 kilometers (37 miles) on both the German and Polish sides of the Oder River. While you’re here, try to fit in a visit to the old tobacco barns near Friedrichsthal.
Browse through our other articles to explore more about Germany.
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