Baden-Baden is a popular spa town in Germany, situated in the valley of the Black Forest mountains. It is only a few kilometres away from the Rhine, the country’s natural border with France. Aside from relaxation, there are plenty of sports on offer, such as tennis, golf, hiking and seasonal skiing.
Listed among UNESCO’s handful of ‘Great Spa Towns of Europe’, it’s no surprise that Baden-Baden’s biggest draw is its mineral-rich thermal springs. To experience their healing properties, you can head to the stylish Caracalla Spa, which offers outdoor and indoor pools, grottoes with hot and cold water and a variety of saunas. These include log cabin saunas in the picturesque gardens that give a rustic feel. There are also waterfalls, whirlpools and steam baths to round off the rejuvenation. If you prefer old-world charm, opt for the neighbouring Friedrichsbad instead – a Roman-Irish bath that dates back to the 19th century. Here, you can indulge in a 17-step wellness journey in a Renaissance setting, the highlight of which is a beautifully frescoed dome.
The Hohenbaden Castle in Baden-Baden was built in 1102 and is locally known as Altes Schloss, meaning ‘old castle’. Its ruins are free to visit, and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the forested countryside from the tower. Elsewhere, the casino in Kurhaus is as much a cultural venue as an entertainment one – opulent chandeliers, oil paintings and gilt lend a touch of belle époque to the card tables, unlike any other casino in the world.
Tourist Information Office Baden-Baden | Center Kaiserallee 1, 76530 Baden-Baden