Frolic around Freiburg, Germany

Freiburg is probably best known as Germany’s sunniest city, boasting over 2,000 hours of sunshine annually. But it’s also a historic university city that dates back to 1120 and is peppered with medieval houses and Gothic cathedrals. And just outside the city limits you’ll find the Black Forest – making this a destination with something for every kind of traveller.

Dip your toes into Freiburg’s Bächle

As you wander the streets of Freiburg, you’ll come across the iconic Freiburg Bächle, which is a collection of small water-filled runnels (small streams) that trickle fresh water from the Dreisam River throughout the city. They were originally designed to provide water for cattle and to be used as a fire precaution but these days, you’ll see kids playing with toy boats or people dipping their feet into the water to cool off. Stay in the Old Town’s Hotel Oberkirch am Münsterplatz to see the streams upclose.

Buy fresh produce at Münstermarkt

Situated in the old historic quarter is Münstermarkt, the city’s most popular market. Here, vendors tout fresh produce, including cheeses and seasonal vegetables – asparagus in spring, berries in summer, freshly picked mushrooms in autumn and roasted chestnuts in winter. Throughout the year, you’ll see locals and travellers rummaging through the goods buying ingredients to whip up a delicious meal. To enjoy the hustle and bustle of the market, stay close by at Park Hotel Post.

Explore The Black Forest

After exploring the historic quarter’s cobblestone lanes, it’s time to venture slightly outside the city to the enchanted-esque Black Forest. This vast woodland of thick pine, fir, beech and oak trees blankets the rolling hills separated by serene lakes. During the warmer months, hikers roam the grassy meadows. And in winter, avid skiers zip down the region’s snow-covered mountain, Feldberg. Whether you’re visiting during winter or summer, stay at the Hotel Sleep & Spa and end your day with a relaxing full body massage.

Toast at Freiburg

For those in search of beer and views, pop into Feierling, a beer garden which can hold up to 700 people. Tables are heavily laden with the Inselhopf beer that’s brewed on-site (a refreshing and light number). And don’t miss out on the food here, too – crispy schnitzel with freshly baked bread or spaetzle with a creamy sauce are a few of the options to quell any hunger pangs. Tuck in, drink up and eventually make your way to the traditional Hotel Oberkirch.

Sip and savour local wines

Due to the warm and sunny climate, the region around Freiburg is known for its delicious wines, which are comparable to those produced in France’s Loire Valley or the Alsace. The diversity of the soil means there’s a wide range of grapes and styles, so prepare to sample plenty during your visit. After a day in the sunny vineyards, the comfy rooms of Park Hotel Post invite a good night’s sleep.