Set on the meandering River Main and surrounded by dense forests, imposing mountain ranges and shimmering lakes, Frankfurt’s urban vibrancy is elegantly juxtaposed with bucolic bliss. Ideal for an escape from the city, these are the most beautiful excursions easily reached from Villa Kennedy.
Frankfurt City Forest
10-minute drive
Frankfurt is remarkably verdant, but the City Forest is Germany’s largest inner-city forest covering almost 5,000 hectares. Once owned by the Kaiser, today it’s a communal retreat from the summer heat, with clearly marked nature trails suitable for walking, jogging and cycling in the cool under the emerald canopy. Start at the Stadtwaldhaus wildlife reserve to catch a glimpse of rescued deer, boar and birds of prey recuperating, before taking a relaxing wander through the woods, spotting the species which call them home.
Großkrotzenburg Lake
30-minute drive
Set just to the east of Frankfurt in the lower Spessart Hills, this vast lake is fringed by trees and over 300 meters of sandy beach, ideal for sunbathing or relaxing. To keep the water crystal-clear and ensure it adheres to the highest standards, only swimming is allowed – no other water sports. Stronger swimmers can even use diving boards, or swim out to reach one of three idyllic miniature islands. Around the lake, find volleyball, badminton grounds and a children’s playground, for a real beach feel.
Taunus Mountains
1-hour drive
North of Frankfurt, this mountain range is home to fragrant pine forests, ancient ruins, therapeutic hot springs and panoramic views. Set between the Rhine, Main and Lahn rivers, the region comprises two nature parks criss-crossed by a network of hiking and cycling routes, from which visitors can enjoy spectacular vistas over the Frankfurt skyline and the river valleys. Follow the Limes Hiking Trail to discover the former frontier of the Roman Empire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you’ll come across ancient watchtowers, forts and a number of castles and palaces. Stop for refreshment at one of many quaint spa towns, once the regular haunts of the German aristocracy.
The Rhine Valley
1-hour drive
A blend of sweeping hillsides, terraced vineyards and rustic villages set along the eponymous river, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is so picturesque it’s inspired poetry by Goethe and Heinrich Heine. Immerse yourself in its poetic beauty on a chauffeured car tour or aboard a direct boat from Frankfurt. Admire its riverside settlements and visit charming, family-owned wineries, renowned for their Riesling. Discover the 40 majestic, mediaeval castles commanding the riverbanks from atop rolling hills, and take a cable car for a bird’s-eye-view. If you’ve come by boat, be sure to pass the Siren’s Rocks, a steep, slate formation named for the legendary mermaid Lorelei.
The Black Forest
2-hour drive
Named for the tall conifers which block light to the undergrowth and stretching from the spa town of Baden-Baden all the way to the Swiss border, this vast forest has a definite aura of mystery. Said to have inspired the Brothers Grimm’s legendary fairy tales, including Hansel and Gretel, as well as being the inspiration for traditional cuckoo clocks and the eponymous gateau, it’s well worth a visit for lovers of nature, culture and history. Take in the beauty of its unspoiled landscapes on an atmospheric drive, hike or cycle, stopping to admire shimmering alpine lakes, flowing waterfalls, historic castles and quaint spa towns and villages.
Our Concierge team at Villa Kennedy is always delighted to arrange excursions in and around Frankfurt. We look forward to welcoming you back soon; to enquire about your next stay, please email reservations.villakennedy@roccofortehotels.com.
Paris is always a good idea. Except, perhaps, when it’s hosting the Olympic Summer Games, and the usual tourist throng looks set to multiply almost prohibitively. Of course, the Games are exciting, but if wading through crowds feels like a marathon effort, try a cultural relay around one of these stunning European cities instead.
As the gentle glow of each ornate chandelier begins to dim, a hush descends upon the audience before an all-consuming world of tragedy and triumph unfolds. Both exhilarating and deeply moving, a night at the opera has the distinct power to evoke emotion, while offering a unique insight into a perhaps unfamiliar city.
Journey through Europe’s symphony of unmissable opera houses, each steeped in history and grandeur.
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