Whether in the city of Coburg as a cultural center in the south, in the picturesque surroundings of the Rodach Valley, in the former world toy city of Sonneberg or on the popular Rennsteig in the north - the region presents itself from a different perspective all around. Each of them has its charms and each is worth a trip.

Unique impressions of nature

If you are planning an active holiday and want to experience nature with all your senses at the same time, you will find fantastic excursion destinations in Coburg.Rennsteig. Hikers, winter sports enthusiasts and cyclists can immerse themselves in the silence of nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The holiday region can be explored on foot on numerous circular and adventure hiking trails: Demanding climbs for ambitious hikers await as well as exciting experiences for the whole family. Cyclists get their money's worth on numerous tours, whether leisurely through the Coburg region and the Rodachtal or actively active around the Rennsteig. Winter sports enthusiasts are attracted to the Thuringian Forest in the cold season for downhill skiing, snowboarding, tubing and cross-country skiing. With kilometers of cross-country trails and numerous downhill runs, including in the largest ski area in Thuringia, nothing is left to be desired.

Relaxation for body and soul

The Tambach Castle Wildlife Park is a real insider tip for nature lovers. Around 200 animals from 20 different native wild animal species cavort in front of a picturesque backdrop. With a bit of luck and a lot of patience, you might even catch a glimpse of the shy lynxes or wolves.

After a strenuous day of adventure or hiking, it is best to relax in one of the two thermal baths in the region. In the ThermeNatur Bad Rodach or Thuringia's Terassentherme Bad Colberg you can relax and recharge your batteries for the next excursion.

Medieval towns and imposing castles

Between endless forests and meadows, fairytale castles and imposing castles rise up and shape the landscape of Coburg.Rennsteig. The impressive fortress, also known as the "Franconian Crown", towers high above the roofs of Coburg. The ascent through the Hofgarten is rewarded with fantastic views over the city and the region. Around 15 km away, the Veste Heldburg, known as the "Franconian Light", offers impressive views over the Thuringian Forest.

Other attractive excursion destinations are Rosenau Castle in Rödental, one of Queen Victoria's favorite places for a reason. The romantic English landscape park entices you to take long walks. The small town of Seßlach, on the other hand, exudes a medieval charm. The tranquil old town of the Franconian gem enchants its visitors with beautiful half-timbered houses.

Cultural enjoyment for everyone

The rich cultural landscape of the region is shaped by a large number of festivals and celebrations, such as the traditional “Stänichä Kerwa”. The musical and cultural highlights are a regional and national magnet for visitors. The largest samba festival outside of Brazil has attracted around 200,000 visitors annually to the European city of Coburg since 1992. The teddy and doll festival in Sonneberg and the doll festival in Neustadt near Coburg invite collectors from all over the world to browse and discover. At the traditional ball market in the small town of Lauscha, the birthplace of glass Christmas tree decorations, you can marvel at regional glass art in its most beautiful form. In addition to the numerous festivals, various museums, such as the art collections of Veste Coburg or the German Toy Museum in Sonneberg, complement the cultural Coburg.Rennsteig.

The love for the art of brewing can also be felt throughout the region. Franconian-Thuringian hospitality is best enjoyed in cozy beer gardens and rustic taverns. The handmade beer specialties, often brewed directly on site according to a long family tradition and above all with a lot of passion, are best enjoyed with regional delicacies such as the Coburg and Thuringian sausages.

(Photos: Rainer Brabec, Sebastian Buff, Museum of the German Toy Industry, Therme Natur Bad Rodach)