Spend a Day on Insel Mainau, Germany
Visit Konstanz's Island of Flowers in Spring or Summer
Insel Mainau, known also as the Island of Flowers, is the perfect place to spend a couple of hours when vacationing in the Konstanz area. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Lake Constance (known in Germany as the Bodensee), this colorful island is an ideal destination in the spring or summer. Full of exotic plants and flowers, it has the feel of a tropical paradise.
History of Insel Mainau
In 1827, nobleman Nikolaus von Esterházy bought the island and began planting gardens there. Since then it has been home to an assortment of plants not usually found in Germany, or in any temperate climate in general. Decades after von Esterházy's purchase of the island, bridges were built to connect the gardens to the mainland. The botanical garden has been a popular attraction ever since.
Flowers and Plants as Art on the Island
From bizarre hedges shaped like gnomes to beautiful arrangements in the greenhouse, there is a creative assortment of colorful flora on the island. A giant stone waterfall dominates one section of the island and is a popular photo opportunity. Pathways that snake under a canopy of trees, lined with flowerbeds, are ideal for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
Attractions Worth Seeing on Mainau
Plenty of grassy space, picnic tables, and benches allow for a picnic lunch. There is also a small palace on the island, as well as a butterfly house. As far as dining options go, there are several cafes and restaurants for guests to choose from. Throughout the year, various events also take place on Mainau, such as exhibitions and concerts.
Getting to Insel Mainau
Mainau is easy to reach, as it is accessible by car, bus, or boat. The most direct bus route is from the Konstanz train station (Hauptbahnhof). Take the number four bus in the direction of Litzelstetten/Wallhausen, and hop off at Insel Mainau.
Further Information About the Park
The gardens are open from March through November, and park hours are sunrise to sunset. For adults, admission to the park is Euro 14.90. The park offers special family, travel group, and student rates, and admission for children under 12 is free. More information about pricing, hours, and things to do can be found on the official website for Insel Mainau.
Konstanz's Insel Mainau, the Island of Flowers, is a tropical paradise in the middle of Lake Constance. Regardless of a visitor's level of enthusiasm for exotic flora, it is a fantastic place to spend a couple of hours on a beautiful spring or summer day.
Flowers on Mainau
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