Bad Urach

"Swabian Jungle", a trim little timbered town, natural orchards covered in blossom, an impressive, 37-m-high waterfall, relaxation in the AlbThermen thermal baths: a visit to Bad Urach lets you experience the UNESCO biosphere reserve at first hand.

The "Swabian Jungle" refers to the ravine forests that cover the slopes of Urach's tributary valleys. This unique type of woodland is found on dry, sunny detrital slopes or in shady, damp ravines. A prime example can be seen on a hike through the Maisen Valley.  The path along the banks of the babbling Brühlbach and through the slope forests leads to the thundering Urach waterfall. To get the full effect of its entire 37-metre drop you'll have to tilt your head back quite a way. From the ruins of Castle Hohenurach there's a good view over Urach's convergent valleys, in springtime with the Erms Valley's orchards in full bloom, and in autumn with the foliage ablaze in shades of red and gold.

While enjoying a stroll through the centre of town, visitors can admire the many smart, timbered buildings from the 15th and 16th centuries and the Late Medieval palace.