Spring awakens at Lake Constance: outdoor escapes & water adventure

Why visit Lake Constance in spring?

Nestled on the border of four countries, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, Lake Constance (or Bodensee in German) is a destination that is loved all year round. But in spring, when nature reawakens, this natural gem transforms into a vibrant outdoor paradise. It becomes the perfect setting for hiking, cycling and boat tours, offering unforgettable moments amid blossoms, clear blue waters and panoramic mountain views. From April onwards, the region awakens with colour: fruit trees blossom, flowers bloom and the landscape becomes a canvas of pinks and whites. Explore the Bodenseegärten or stroll through the floral wonderland of Mainau Island, where spring truly comes to life. Whether you're a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast or simply in need of a peaceful escape, Lake Constance invites you to discover its beauty by foot, bike or boat.

^{Photo: Frederick Sams}

Hiking at Lake Constance

Spring brings soft sunshine, fresh air and blooming fruit trees, making it the ideal season to hike the panoramic trails around Lake Constance. Around the lake you’ll find hiking trails for all levels, from pleasant beginner- and family-friendly routes along the shore to more challenging trails through the mountains. Walk through vineyards, orchards and picturesque lakeside villages, always with a view of the shimmering lake and snow-dusted Alps. To inspire you to discover the hiking trails around Lake Constance, we listed some of our favourite trails:

• Hiking along the lakeshore: this beginner-friendly trail is a great way to explore the beauty of Lake Constance while enjoying gentle footpaths without much elevation gain. Wander through historic towns, discover natural beaches and take a break at picnic areas. You’re free to choose your own length, because at the end of the day you can take the boat back to your starting point. Are you in for a challenge? You can also walk all the way around the lake, covering around 270 kilometres.
• Hiking the wine trail in Weinfelden: why not combine your hike with a wine tour? The Thurgau Lake Constance region is well known for its high class wine and with this 9 kilometre hiking trail you get to know more about the local wine culture. Walk through the vineyards, passing various wineries and enjoy the panoramic view of the village Alpstein.
• Hiking around the Pfänder mountain in Bregenz: this one is for hikers who love the mountains, but also want a bit of comfort. The 1064 meter high Pfänder is accessible by cable car and offers breathtaking views and alpine trails.
• Hiking in the mountains of Liechtenstein: experienced hikers can head to Liechtenstein, enjoying more than 400 kilometers of mountain trails with 32 peaks that rise above 2.000 metres. On top of the highest mountain, Vordere Grauspitz (2.599 metres), hikers are treated to stunning views over the Rätikon mountain range and the neighboring countries.

^{Photo: Liechtenstein Marketing}

Lake Constance cycling routes

Lake Constance is a great destination for cycling fans who love nature, culture and culinary delights. From historical villages to lakeside cafés with local delicacies and smooth paved cycling paths along the shore to more challenging cycling paths through the hills or mountains, with various cycling routes around Lake Constance there is something for everyone.

The Lake Constance Cycle Path (or Bodenseeradweg) is one of Europe’s most beloved bike routes, looping over 260 kilometres around the lake. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual explorer, it’s an ideal route to explore the region. You can do the whole route in multiple days or choose individual stages that are short enough to cover in one day. The cycling path offers flat, well-marked roads, countless charming stops in picturesque towns like Meersburg, Lindau and Stein am Rhein, flower-filled meadows and blossoming orchards that line the shores in spring. You can also rent an e-bike or slow down and enjoy the lakeside cafés with fresh local produce along the way.

^{Photo: Liechtenstein Marketing}

Explore Lake Constance by boat

As the temperatures rise and the water warms, Lake Constance becomes a gateway to springtime adventure on the water. Boat tours resume for a new season, offering an unique view on the lake. Explore the lake on a classic sailboat or hop on a modern ferry to cross the lake in a comfortable way.

But at Lake Constance boat tours are not only for leisure, it’s also used as public transport. The catamaran connects Constance and Friedrichshafen at high speed every hour, making it easy to explore different sides of the lake in a short time. There is also a car ferry connecting Constance, Meersburg, Friedrichshafen and Romanshorn.

With fewer crowds than summer, the boat tours at Lake Constance during spring feel personal and serene. Let a light breeze stroke your face, breath in fresh air and enjoy a peaceful time on the water.

^{Photo: Überlingen Marketing und Tourismus}

This article was written in collaboration with the Tourist Board of Lake Constance. Discover more about the region on their website or in our travel guide.