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The rest of the 150 to 180-year-old trees involve much less scheming. Amateur botanists will find black alders, bald cypresses, willows and cane, water lilies and irises, as well as white water lilies which were first planted there in the 1950s. Those who prefer animals can observe various species of bird as they swim around, practices flying, build nests and, in late summer, take their grown-up family on day excursions. But you can get your own exercise in too. Comfortable walking tracks head around the Mühlenweiher and Herrenweiher lakes; you can even take a detour to the slightly higher Südbad swimming pool, with diving platforms, fountains and a children’s play area. The Südbad opens as soon as the weather becomes suitable for outdoor swimming. Those who prefer to stay on land or who visit on cooler days should visit the mini-golf course (closed Tuesdays).
A must for: Animal-watchers. Tree-taxonomists. Families and jogging groups. Minigolfers, playground visitors and outdoor-pool enthusiasts.
Physical activity: 70%
Duck-counting: 40%
Fun for kids: 70%
PSSSST! THE INSIDER TIP:
The Südbahnhof bus station marks the start of a great cycling circuit through the Altbach and Olewig Valley (with a brief detour to the Amphitheatre) and past the elevated Kernscheid district to the heart of the Mattheiser Wald nature reserve. Following the ponds and lakes here, you’ll head through the old district of Heiligkreuz, with its 11th-century chapel, before returning to the Südbahnhof. The circuit takes about 90 minutes and is 17 kilometres in length. You’ll need a bit of puff – but your efforts will be rewarded with wonderful views and a healthy mix of cultural attractions and pure nature.
A must for: Animal-watchers. Tree-taxonomists. Families and jogging groups. Minigolfers, playground visitors and outdoor-pool enthusiasts.
Physical activity: 70%
Duck-counting: 40%
Fun for kids: 70%
PSSSST! THE INSIDER TIP:
The Südbahnhof bus station marks the start of a great cycling circuit through the Altbach and Olewig Valley (with a brief detour to the Amphitheatre) and past the elevated Kernscheid district to the heart of the Mattheiser Wald nature reserve. Following the ponds and lakes here, you’ll head through the old district of Heiligkreuz, with its 11th-century chapel, before returning to the Südbahnhof. The circuit takes about 90 minutes and is 17 kilometres in length. You’ll need a bit of puff – but your efforts will be rewarded with wonderful views and a healthy mix of cultural attractions and pure nature.
