Fairy-tale places
Exploring the German Fairy Tale Route: five selected spots with a distinctive atmosphere.
Johannes Göbel ,
04.12.2025 
“Fairy-tale – from the Main to the sea” is the motto of the German Fairy-Tale Route, which runs through extensive areas of Germany and has offered tourist highlights for over 50 years. Castles, half-timbered houses, green landscapes and much more besides: however different the individual locations may be, they all share a connection with German fairy tales. Here we present five particularly charming places.
Trendelburg Castle
Where exactly Rapunzel is said to have let down her famously long hair is unknown. But on the edge of the Reinhardswald forest in northern Hesse stands an old fortress with a “Rapunzel tower”, and for good reason: it was in this region that the Brothers Grimm found many of their fairy tale motifs. Dating back to the early 14th century, Trendelburg Castle remains a picturesque sight to this day.
The Reinhardswald
Historic castles, idyllic streams and ancient trees make the Reinhardswald Nature Park a true “fairy-tale forest”. The Holzape stream (photo) is home to numerous animal and plant species and leads to the historic moated castle of Wülmersen.
The “Pied Piper” town of Hamelin
“The Pied Piper of Hamelin” is a dark tale: the flute player is said to have abducted the children of the ungrateful townspeople in revenge. Today the tale is re-enacted in colourful performances, and the beautiful old town and surrounding Weser Uplands are perfect for visitors to explore.
Bremen
From Hamelin, the River Weser flows northwards and, shortly before it reaches the North Sea, arrives in the city of Bremen, home to the famous “Town Musicians of Bremen”. Their terrible singing is not heard here – instead, visitors will find a bronze sculpture of the donkey, dog, cat and cockerel in the old town. They are certainly popular: the donkey’s front hooves are polished smooth, as touching them is said to bring good luck.
Frau-Holle-Land Geo-Nature Park
Like many locations linked to the world of Grimms’ fairy tales, the Frau-Holle-Land Geo-Nature Park is situated in northern Hesse. Frau Holle’s shaken feather bed is said to make the snow fall to earth: she presides over a beautiful landscape featuring nature reserves as well as the magically atmospheric Berlepsch Castle (photo).
