They say God cried when Adam and Eve left paradise. One tear had fallen on the earth and thus Lake Constance came into being. Like a giant fish it stretches over the border triangle. Its head with Lindau and Bregenz points at  Bavaria and Austria, its belly is embedded into Switzerland and the silver shining tail fin divides into Unter- Zeller- Gnaden und Überlinger-See near Konstanz. With 535 km² it is the third largest lake of Central Europe in terms of surface after Lake Balaton and Lake Geneva.

Its three big islands, which are connected to the mainland through a dam, embody the cultural and civilising focal points of the region. Lindau, Bavaria's bridge head, demonstrates the middle classes having striven for independence during the medieval times. Enjoy a great view of the lake and the baroque Aold town from the light house or from a window in Diebsturm tower (1380), the former city prison.

The late neo-classical Villa Lindenhof is home to Europe's first peace museum. The monastery Reichenau is also part of the UNESCO world heritage on the island with the same name. It is not only known for its vast vegetable garden, but also as a cultural-intellectual centre. Mainau, the third in league, lies like an abundant flower boat in the south east part of Lake Überlingen.

For who takes a trip or sails on the lake on his own will pass several smaller islands. But be aware: Even if the lake mostly looks flat like silk it may quickly transform into a wild sea with waves up to 4m.

The mild and balanced temperatures promise a lush fruit and wine crop and allow the wintering of 250.000 birds. There are plenty of great hiking and cycling trails around the lake. For who wants to avoid the often halting traffic on the cycling trails will cede to the interior which is also worth a visit.

The medieval centre of the old town of Konstanz, the biggest town around the lake, is also quite an attraction. Another tip for art lovers is the "Haus zur Kunkel" at Münsterplatz. Here profane themes (the work of the weavers) were shown for the first time. Also take a side trip to the "Paradies" neighborhood with its pompous Art Nouveau villas.

Actually, Lake Constance has a lot in store in terms of culture. The world's biggest outdoor stage at the Bregenz shores hosts the prominence of the music biz. For 2008 Giacomo Puccinis opera thriller "Tosca" is scheduled. Zeppelin fans will adore the accessible replica of the "Hindenburg" at the industry museum in Friedrichshafen. Often people forget that the museum hosts the largest Otto-Dix-collection. Also writers like Annette von Droste-Hülshoff, Hermann Hesse or Martin Walser felt attracted by the lovely landscape.

Another highlight are the culinary delights. The Bodensee trout is much better than the salmon and "Knöpfle", a sort of "Spätzle", or roasted Swabian ravioli with a regional wine from Meersburg are real deal.

by Karin Nagl