Planning a trip to Munich? Beer gardens, cultural sites, and marvelous Bavarian scenery make Munich one of the most interesting cities in Germany, and it has many natural wonders, as well. Munich has many opportunities for strolling and relaxing within the city itself but also close to the city along the Isar River and several city parks including the Englischer Garten. For those who are lucky to get the Germany Visa, these natural beauties can be an exciting and a relaxing angle to your tour. Germany’s love for green and lush lawns makes Munich a perfect place for nature lovers and tourists.
Germany Visa lets you explore the Munich’s varied terrains and surrounding areas that represent Germany’s amazing bio-diversity. People can see beautiful botanical gardens and the palace parks, lakes, forest and much more. From a relaxing walk, a meal in green areas, or hiking, the nature scenes in Munich are a great way to have fun in beautiful surroundings. Therefore, the following nature attractions should not be missed as you plan your trip to Germany.
Below is a comprehensive guide to the finest nature attractions that visitors should not miss in Munich.
1. English Garden
The Englischer Garten is a very large park area in Munich and is considered one of the biggest urban parks of the world. Stretching over 900 acres, it comprises beautiful meadow and woods, beautiful lakes, and shady paths. Both residents and tourists come here for the green grass that would make a perfect ground for a picnic, or sunbathing, especially during the warm summer. It also has the Japanese Tea House, Eisbach wave where river surfers practice, and many areas that include woods to have a nice walk. You should also visit Chinese Tower beer garden for the true Bavarian atmosphere in the center of the green area.
2. Olympiapark
Olympiapark is relatively a new park that was constructed to host the 1972 Summer Olympics and is a combination of structures and garden. This is so evident in its design with hilly terrains, lakes and areas of large open green land just like those of Bavaria. Tourists can climb the Olympic Hill (Olympiaberg) to look out for the city skyline and the Alps in the distance in the event the weather is clear. The park also features a year-round events including concerts, sporting activities, which make the park to be busy throughout the year with people from all over the world.
3. Nymphenburg Palace Gardens
However, what is impressive about Nymphenburg Palace is the palace gardens which surround the entire palace. Such well-groomed territories consist of parterre gardens, natural lawns, still-water ponds, and a miniature canal. Perfect for a summer stroll, or boat ride through the palace park – baroque statues and fountains, as well as adorable pavilions can be found throughout the green area. During the autumn, the gardens are a riot of the fall colors and many photographers use the area for sessions.
4. Munich Botanical Garden
Right next to Nymphenburg Palace are situated the Munich Botanical Garden, which is a treasure trove for any plant enthusiast. It sprawls over an area of over 21 hectares and contains over 19000 species of plant from different parts of the world. It’s possible to stroll around various gardens, for example, the Alpine Garden, Rose Garden, and tropical greenhouses. The fair is highly frequented during the tulip bloom in the spring, as well as during the exhibition of exotic butterflies. This is a quiet garden and I believe anyone who visits it will not feel the presence of the busy city life around them.
5. Isar Riverbanks
The Isar River flows through Munich and there are plenty of places to have a good time at the waterside. People go there to sunbathe, swim or barbecue during the warmer months of the year. Especially for picnicking and coming together for social events, the Flaucher area is well known. Take a walk along the river to find the hidden gems such as sandy shores, forests, and fields of flowers. The flows of Isar River certainly contributes to the wild side of Munich and that is why the river is a popular place for people to visit.
6. Tierpark Hellabrunn (Hellabrunn Zoo)
Located in the nature preserve of the Isar River, Hellabrunn Zoo presents something more than just the tour. Founded in 1911, it is credited as the first “geo-zoo” where animals are arranged according to their provenance in landscaped biomes. Due to its large green areas, beautiful pathways and river frontage, the zoo is a nature oasis. Guests can walk through animal compounds at the same time feel the atmosphere of the forest and vast meadows. For families with kids, and nature and animals lovers, it is an excellent opportunity to observe the nature of Munich.
7. The lakes near Munich
Both Ammersee and Starnberger See, are just a short drive from Munich and provide the spectacular views of the water against the Alps. Ammersee is famous for its secluded sandy shores, sail boating, and picturesque villages on the shore. At Starnberger See one can swim, sunbathe, have a barbecue, rent a boat to sail through this place and to see the beautiful villas and historical places. Both lakes are ideal for a day trip from Munich; they are serene and surrounded by stunning views ideal for the lovers of nature.
8. Hofgarten (Court Garden)
Hofgarten is a renaissance garden in proximity to the city center with mirror imaging pathways, fountains and an Italianate built structure. This historic garden was developed in the early part of the seventeenth century and is a very pleasant place to take a leisurely walk, or to sit and read on the benches. The garden is next to the Residenz and is often decorated with flowers in spring and summer. This gives people a relaxing feel within the heart of the city, and most people prefer it due to its classy and strategic location.
9. Westpark
However, there is another park in Sendling district of Munich that is not as famous as English Garden, but still as delightful – Westpark. This park has a blend of nature and culture such as Asian inspired courts, rose garden, and a man made pond. One of them is Thai Sala which is a beautifully decorated pavilion which gives a Thai touch to the park. Featuring barbecue areas, play structures and a network of walking trails, Westpark is a favourite for residents for a leisurely afternoon, picnics, and family outings.
Conclusion
The nature attractions provide a much needed break from the bustling city and relevant history of Munich. Those include parks and lakes where people can have a close look at the nature within the framework of Bavarian landscape. No matter how brief or lengthy your trip to Munich is, the following outdoor spots should not be missed when in Munich.
