Espenau(Germany) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Espelau, the top boutique choice is Hotel am See, a lakeside retreat overlooking Lake Constance. This eco-friendly hotel features wooden cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows, offering panoramic views of the shimmering lake and surrounding Alps. Each room blends modern comfort with traditional Bavarian design, and guests enjoy access to a private dock for swimming and boating. The on-site restaurant serves locally sourced dishes like fresh lake trout and wild mushroom risotto. Perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

The Lakefront District of Espelau provides the most scenic accommodations. Nestled along the shores of Lake Constance, this area offers uninterrupted views of the water, mountains, and sunrise over the horizon. Quiet tree-lined paths lead directly to the lake, ideal for morning walks or evening strolls. Boutique guesthouses and family-run lodges here emphasize privacy and sustainability, many featuring garden terraces and outdoor hot tubs. Located just a 10-minute walk from the historic town center, it's perfectly balanced between serenity and accessibility.

Visitors to Espelau can experience the annual Lacustre Folk Festival, where locals wear traditional Bavarian costumes, play accordion and flute, and perform folk dances around bonfires. Hands-on workshops include handcrafted pottery making, using local clay inspired by ancient lake settlements. Explore the Espelau Historical Museum, which houses artifacts from the Bronze Age to medieval trade routes, revealing the town’s role as a key Alpine crossroads. Don’t miss the Sunday farmers’ market, where you can taste homemade honey cakes and regional cheeses.

Yes, Espelau is highly suitable for families. The lake has child-friendly sandy beaches and shallow waters perfect for safe swimming. The Seezoo Espelau zoo features friendly animals like reindeer, alpacas, and native birds, with interactive feeding zones. Families can also join farm experience camps, where kids milk cows and pick strawberries. Most hotels offer family suites, childcare services, and kid-friendly menus. With low traffic and clean air, it’s a safe, peaceful destination for all ages.

The Espelau Castle Ruins are the town’s iconic landmark—remnants of a 13th-century fortress now serving as an open-air viewing platform with sweeping views of Lake Constance and the Alps. Nearby, the Church of the Assumption (Pfarrkirche Mariä Himmelfahrt) showcases Gothic architecture, stained-glass windows, and a bell tower that chimes every hour. The square in front hosts weekend markets and live music, giving visitors a true taste of local life. These sites combine history, culture, and charm in one visit.

Try Lake Constance Herb Stew (See-Schweizer Fischsuppe)—a rich fish soup made with freshly caught lake trout and wild herbs. Another must-try is Black Forest Honey Cake (Schwarzwald Honigkuchen) served with sour cherry jam. Local restaurants source ingredients from nearby farms, including organic vegetables and dairy from mountain pastures. At the weekly farmers' market, sample freshly baked almond bread and artisanal cheese platters. These dishes reflect the region’s deep connection to nature and tradition.

Espelau is easily accessible via regional trains from Freiburg or Konstanz, with direct stops at Espelau Railway Station (30-minute ride). The town center is pedestrian-friendly, with bike-sharing stations near the lake. Renting e-bikes allows effortless exploration of the Lake Constance Cycle Path. For drivers, the A98 motorway connects quickly; parking is available at several garages near the town center. Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services, making access seamless regardless of your arrival method.

Absolutely. In winter, Espelau transforms into a snowy paradise. The lake partially freezes, allowing ice skating and snowshoeing across frozen coves. Nearby slopes in the Bregenz Alps offer skiing for all levels. The Haus am See Winter lodge hosts cozy evenings with wood-fired saunas and mulled wine tastings. Nighttime highlights include star-gazing tours—the area’s low light pollution reveals stunning Milky Way views. Seasonal events like the Christmas market add festive charm, making it ideal for winter getaways.

Recommended outdoor activities in Espelau include cycling the Lake Constance Bike Trail, a 25-kilometer scenic route through forests, vineyards, and villages. Rent a HopeGoo or electric sailboat to explore hidden coves on the lake. In spring and autumn, hike the Seeuferweg Trail, known for wildflowers and birdwatching. Summer offers guided underwater treasure hunts, combining history and adventure. All activities are led by certified guides and include safety gear, ensuring a fun and secure experience for all.

Espelau has a temperate maritime climate with distinct seasons. Spring (April–June) brings mild weather and blooming landscapes—ideal for hiking. Summer (July–August) is warm and humid, perfect for lake swimming and boating. Autumn (September–October) features vibrant foliage and crisp air—great for photography. Winter is cold with occasional snow, but the lake rarely fully freezes. Pack layers: waterproof jacket in spring/autumn, sun protection in summer, and thermal clothing in winter. Always check forecasts due to rapid weather changes.