Tophotels in Bad Urach

There have been people residing here since the Stone Age. The many caves in the area served as shelter for early inhabitants. The area became an important castle in the Alemanni period that overlooked the Erms Valley. The castle was built in 1025. The city soon became a center of power, dominating the Middle Ages. It eventually turned into a state prison. In fact, the poet Philipp Nikodemus Frischlin was once imprisoned here. The 13th century saw it become a part of Württemberg, and it was home of the dukes until 1482. Under this rule, the town prospered, becoming a center for weaving. In 1985, the town took a turn and became a nationally recognized spa town, drawing in many tourists.

Location: At the Foot of the Swabian Alp

Bad Urach is located in the southern portion of Germany, and is part of the Reutlingen district, in Baden-Württemberg. 14 kilometers to the west, you'll find the town of Reutlingen, giving the district its name. The town sits at the foot of the majestic Swabian Alb with a mild climate. The city is broken up into five subdivisions or districts, much like the rest of the towns in the area.

Culture: Church, Castles, and Medieval Market Place

One of the most amazing things about the area is that it has practically untouched historical landmarks dating back several centuries. The first of these is the Residenzschloss (Residence Castle), the residence of the Counts of Württemberg-Urach. Eberhard the Bearded was born here, and the rooms give a look into the Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic periods. The Church of Saint Amandus was built in 1477 in the Gothic style and holds a beautifully decorated pulpit. The ruins of Castle Hohenurach are also still viewable in the city. For a real treat, head to city hall, where you will find the entire Late-Medieval marketplace intact, surrounded with houses dating back to the 15th century.

Activities: Museums and Active Lifestyles

If you have children or are a child at heart, the Klostermühle Museum is a sight to see in Bad Urach. Exhibits are constantly changing, with the toy show happening around Christmas every year. For a more unique experience, check out the Shoe Museum, dedicated to the town's history with shoe manufacturing. The museum is located within an old shoemaker's shop, and holds shoes from different decades as well as machines and other equipment. To get closer to the untouched nature, there are plenty of outdoor activities available as well. Try your hand at something new at the Nordic-Walking-Park with 35 kilometers of perfectly structured trails. Nearby at Ermstal, you can enjoy the catch of the day or catch it yourself. The ponds hold rainbow trout, char, and salmon. In wintertime, you can have the experience of a lifetime taking a sled dog ride.