Baden-Baden is surrounded by fantastic destinations for days out. Admire the opulent grandeur of "Favorite" Palace, take time out to visit one of the many havens of wellbeing along the Black Forest Spa Route, or treat your family to the slightly unusual safari adventure offered by the ostrich farm, where you can see hundreds of ostriches roaming around as if they were in the wild. "Favorite" Palace
Situated in Rastatt-Förch, "Favorite" Palace is the oldest "porcelain palace" in Germany, and the only one still preserved in its original condition. Sibylla Augusta, the artistically minded young widow of Margrave Ludwig Wilhelm von Baden, began the building of this summer residence in 1710. It turned out to be a spectacular example of baroque architecture, and its opulent, richly decorated interior is resplendent with furnishings and everyday objects from the 18th century. Highlights include priceless porcelain and faience earthenware garnered from all corners of the world. The palace's English-style landscaped gardens are home to the Hermitage (Eremitage) with the Chapel of St. Magdalena. Black Forest Spa Route
This 270-kilometre-long circular route takes you on a journey through the mountains and valleys of the northern Black Forest at the confluence of the Nagold and Enz rivers. No other region has as many hydrotherapy, climatic, thermal and mineral health resorts as here, many of which use the hot mineral springs in these valleys for a variety of therapeutic treatments. Passing by no end of hills and mountains, the route is lined with abbeys, castles, palaces, secluded lakes, highland moors and picture-postcard Black Forest towns characterised by their pretty medieval architecture. Mhou ostrich farm
Ostriches are about eight feet and six inches tall, with bright-red beaks, reptilian claws and inquisitive eyes framed by lashes that a Hollywood diva would be proud of. Mhou ostrich farm is the only one of its kind in Germany, and offers an insight into ostrich-keeping and breeding. Visiting these expansive grounds is a fascinating experience at any time of year, but the best time to come is from April to September when you can see the newly hatched chicks.