In our fast-paced world, we're always chasing the perfect Instagram photo, traveling to the most exotic destinations, checking off every sight on our to-do list, and striving for the perfect scene—but is that really relaxing?
A delightful countertrend has emerged: Slow Travel. It's about traveling at a slower pace, letting yourself simply drift, and finding tranquility. Here, you'll learn what Slow Travel is all about and where you can enjoy the art of leisurely cycling in Germany and Italy.
Slow travel is about consciously embracing a slower pace, immersing yourself in the present moment, and giving yourself the time to fully experience the life around you. It's about noticing the subtle, often overlooked details off the beaten path. Slow travel also means living in tune with your own rhythm—lingering in a place that speaks to you, taking an unplanned swim in a cool mountain lake, and then basking in the sun on the jetty. It's about accepting an invitation for a glass of wine at a welcoming vineyard, where the winemaker passionately shares the journey of the grape from vine to fine wine.
With this type of travel, the journey to and from the destination is just as important as the journey itself. From the start, opt for a slower pace by traveling by bus or train. Not only is this more sustainable, but it also helps you break out of your usual routine. Watching the changing landscape and letting your thoughts wander—now that's pure relaxation.
Exploring Germany's largest mixed deciduous forest by bicycle is an experience like no other. Anyone who has cycled through the Spessart understands the allure of its medieval towns and mystical forests. Cycling in the Spessart is an immersive journey into nature. Ride along rivers and streams, breathe in the spicy, resinous scent of the forest, and take in the fragrance of lush, blooming meadows. Rustic inns with inviting beer gardens beckon you, or you can enjoy a well-earned break by a babbling brook. This is pure relaxation at its finest.
The Spessart is also home to the famous fairy tale collectors, the Brothers Grimm. The two brothers were born in Hanau and grew up in Steinau. The former Grimm family residence is now a museum dedicated to the brothers' work and the enchanting world of their fairy tales.
In Lohr am Rhein, the world of Snow White comes to life. The Spessart Museum in Lohr Castle houses the ornately decorated magic mirror of the Queen. But it wasn't just nobles, foresters, and miners who lived in the forests of Lohr. You should still be on guard against robbers and highwaymen today!
What comes to mind when you think of the Black Forest? Cuckoo clocks, Black Forest gateau, or perhaps the iconic Bollenhut? But the region in Southern Germany is much more than that. The Black Forest is Germany's largest mountain range, stretching over 11,100 square kilometers. The natural landscapes vary from the long forested mountains in the north to the wide meadow valleys in the central Black Forest, and the high, snow-capped Alpine peaks with breathtaking views in the south.
Discover hidden gorges, mystical forests, wild mountain rivers, charming villages, and vibrant cities. One such city is Freiburg im Breisgau. This lively university town skillfully blends its rich history with contemporary architecture. In the Old Town, you can admire historic landmarks such as the medieval Schwabentor, ornate building facades, and the Freiburg Minster. A special highlight on warm days is the Freiburg Bächle. The gently flowing water runs through countless alleys of the Old Town, inviting visitors to dip their toes.
Another architectural marvel in the Black Forest is located in Bad Säckingen. Here, you can visit Europe's longest covered wooden bridge. Spanning nearly 204 meters, this bridge connects Bad Säckingen with the Swiss town of Stein.
For those looking to try Slow Travel, a cycling journey through South Tyrol is a must. In the mountains, people's lives have always been guided by nature and its rhythms. This diverse region is one of the most beautiful in Europe and has long captivated its visitors. The unique blend of traditional rural life and Italian Dolce Vita makes South Tyrol truly special.
A city that should definitely be on your itinerary is Merano. This picturesque spa town is a year-round destination. Nestled in a stunning mountain setting within a valley, it boasts a Mediterranean climate. Stroll through the charming streets or along the Passer River. Be sure to visit the Merano Kurhaus, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau, or the botanical gardens at Trauttmansdorff Castle.
What would Slow Travel be without delightful culinary experiences? In South Tyrol, you'll find a wide range of alpine and Mediterranean cuisine. What ties these two together is the use of local ingredients. With a growing awareness of sustainability, there’s a focus on the origins of food. A return to traditional preparation methods and a passion for the product transform even the simplest dishes into true gastronomic delights.
You don't have to travel far from the Spessart to immerse yourself in the world of fairy tales. In Tuscany, you can follow in the footsteps of Pinocchio—both by foot and by bike. Who doesn’t know the story of Pinocchio, the wooden puppet who dreams of becoming a real boy? The author Carlo Lorenzini, who wrote under the pseudonym "Carlo Collodi," was inspired by his childhood in Tuscany. Growing up in the village of Collodi, he later adopted it as his pen name. This picturesque mountain village is famous primarily for Pinocchio and the old Geppetto. A visit to the themed park is a must for fans of the wooden puppet.
Nearby is Montecatini Terme, renowned for its famous thermal baths. This city is the largest spa resort in Tuscany. The expansive park is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Additionally, a cable car ride up to Montecatini Alto, which overlooks the town, offers stunning views. On the hill, you can enjoy a fantastic panorama of the area and spend a delightful afternoon at Piazza Giuseppe Giusti, with its charming cafés.
The Tuscan metropolises of Florence and Pisa are also within easy reach. Explore the rich cultural treasures of Tuscany, deeply intertwined with the legacy of the Medici family.
