Lake Constance

Affectionately known as the lake without a nation, freshwater Lake Constance, Bodensee in German, was formed in the ice age by glaciers and is Europe's third largest lake, named after the Roman town of Constance (Konstanz) which, today, sits on its western shoreline. Germany, Switzerland, and Austria flank Lake Constance and it lies on the Rhine River at the foot of the Alps. Lake Constance’s size is considerable, spanning about 63 kilometres in length and 14 kilometres at its widest point, covering an area of approximately 536 square kilometres (207 square miles) with a maximum depth of 252 meters.

Lake Constance is picturesque and calm, with the Alps, orchards, vineyards, dense forests and meadow flatlands skirting the shoreline, not forgetting the dramatic steep mountainsides, particularly on the southern, Swiss side. It is no surprise that Bodensee is popular for bird watchers (migratory birds), nature lovers, and outdoor adventurists for wild swimming, boating, sailing and paddleboarding, especially in summer. Its shoreline charts pathways and trails for hikers; those who like a challenge can ascend up into the Pfänder in Bregenz or the Säntis over the Schwägalp Pass, where views stretch to six countries on a clear day. The Lake Constance Cycle Path (Bodensee-Radweg) is one of the most popular cycling routes in Europe, circling the lake and offering spectacular views along its 260 km (162 miles) of paved paths. Many are drawn to the water itself and the islands, including the northerly Reichenau Island, which showcases early medieval Romanesque churches; Mainau Island is known for its colourful gardens and blossom. The German island town of Lindau is an attractive spot, with its atmospheric old town, lighthouse and views framed by the Alps.

The famous lakeside town of Bregenz, on the eastern shoreline, is the capital of the state of Vorarlberg in Austria and hosts the world-famous open-air Bregenz Festival. Performed on a dramatic floating stage, this is an epic annual affair of open-air opera, theatrical and musical performances to the backdrop of Lake Constance. 

The shore of southern Germany includes the lively hub of Friedrichshafen, which is full of aviation heritage. The Zeppelin Museum shines a light on the intriguing history of airship travel. Up in the north is the historic haunt Konstanz, which played a central role in European history, especially during the Council of Constance (1414–1418), a significant ecclesiastical meeting that resolved the Western Schism within the Catholic Church and also saw the trial and execution of the reformer Jan Hus. Today the university town is brimming with a buzz against the imposing Gothic cathedral that dates back to the 11th century. Meanwhile, on the Swiss side, the canton of St Gallen bumps up alongside the shore; inland is the UNESCO-designated 8th-century Abbey of St. Gall with its historic library containing 1,000-year-old texts.

Officially one of the only places on Earth without any borders, Lake Constance is a sweet melange of natural beauty, heritage, culture, excellent food and regional wines.