Konstanz Outdoor: Top 5 Activities You Can’t Miss

Konstanz, a charming city right on the shores of Lake Constance – or the Bodensee, as they say – offers way more than just pretty views; so, too it’s a hotspot for outdoor adventures. With its stunning location between Germany and Switzerland, you’ll find a load of things to do, whether you’re really into chilling by the lake or exploring cool trails. Let’s have a closer look at the five awesome outdoor activities that you really shouldn’t miss when you visit Konstanz.

1. Cycling Around Lake Constance

Imagine this: the sun is shining, there is this gentle breeze coming off the water, and you’re gliding along on two wheels with breathtaking views all around; so, that’s cycling around Lake Constance in a nutshell. The Bodensee-Radweg, that is, the Lake Constance Cycle Path, stretches for approximately 260 km, and it goes through Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. But don’t get all worried, yet, because you really don’t need to do the whole thing to get a good taste of it.

You could just pick a segment near Konstanz, maybe, like the stretch towards the Island of Mainau or towards Stein am Rhein in Switzerland. It’s mostly flat, which is a little plus if you are bringing kids or prefer a casual ride; basically, cycling here gives you seriously stunning views of the lake, cute little villages, and the Alps on the horizon if you get a clear day. There are loads of spots to rent a bike in Konstanz. Why not just grab one and hit the road – or, should I say, the bike path?

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2. Hiking the Bodanrück Ridge

If you’re one of those people who prefer stretching their legs on solid ground, that is, hiking the Bodanrück ridge is just for you. The Bodanrück, a wooded ridge north of Konstanz, has trails with stunning views of Lake Constance and the surrounding countryside; still, the trails range from easy strolls to pretty challenging hikes, so, too there’s something for everyone.

One trail, specifically, I like is the “Napoleonseck” trail. It takes you to a spot where Napoleon supposedly had a look at the area; really, it’s more about the views than Napoleon, let me tell you. As I was saying, the hike goes through thick woods and opens up to amazing viewpoints. On a clear day, might be, you can see all the way to the Alps! Pack a lunch, that, too find a spot with a view, and just take it all in. It’s, like your own private escape into nature, super close to the city.

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3. Exploring Mainau Island (Flower Island)

Mainau Island, which some call the Flower Island, really is more than just a garden; alright, it’s more of an experience, really. Even though it is a little island, that is, part of Konstanz, it is bursting with colorful flowers, age-old trees, and themed gardens. You can easily spend a whole day wandering around. And of course, that’s just the beginning.

The Italian Rose Garden, that is, the Butterfly House are absolute must-sees, and there’s even a petting zoo and playground if you’re traveling with kids; clearly, the island offers events all year round, so, too check the schedule before you head over. You can get to Mainau by bus, boat, or even by bike. I think, anyway, taking a boat is kind of the coolest way to arrive, with views of the island as you approach; honestly, it feels pretty magical, especially in spring when everything’s in full bloom. The entry fee is a little steep, as a matter of fact, but it’s actually worth it for the experience. Oh, yes.

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4. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) on Lake Constance

For something a little different and that’s really a test of your balance – well, kind of, because I am talking about stand-up paddleboarding. More or less, SUP on Lake Constance is getting more and more popular; really, and it’s no surprise. Can you just picture it? You’re paddling on the clear, blue water, that’s just all there is beneath your board, with views of the city and countryside all around.

There are multiple rental places around Konstanz, too it’s almost all that you have to do is rent a board, get a quick tutorial, and hit the water. Mornings tend to be calmer, might be, making it perfect for beginners. So, if you feel a bit more adventurous, anyway, you can paddle towards some of the smaller islands or along the shore; I promise you, that, too it’s a killer workout, that can also feel seriously relaxing – once you get the hang of standing up, that is. Plus, I’m pretty sure you will never forget about this experience.

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5. Relaxing at the Seeburg Park

Sometimes, there is no need to be constantly moving, yet. Sometimes, just a chill spot is a welcome, might be. If you’re one of those people, basically, Seeburg Park is perfect. This waterside park has these stunning views of the lake, plus it also offers places to just chill, have a picnic, and even a little zoo; naturally, it’s super popular with locals and tourists.

Just grab a spot on the grass, may be, read a book, or just watch the boats go by. If you’re there with kids, anyway, the petting zoo is really a winner; frankly, Seeburg is awesome at any time of day, that is, but sunsets there are spectacular. So, just grab a drink or a snack, that is, find a cozy place to sit, and enjoy the show.

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