Whether you're into windsurfing, sailing, scuba diving or canoeing – you'll find a German youth hostel suitable for all kinds of water sports and in all the attractive regions.
Surfing on Lake Constance
Three countries – Germany, Austria and Switzerland – surround Lake Constance, one of the largest inland lakes in Europe. Tourists have come to appreciate its crystal-clear water, the snow-capped Alps in the background and the romantic towns and villages that line its shores. The town of Lindau, the historical centre of which is situated on an island in Lake Constance, is especially quaint and attractive to visitors. The same holds true for the
modern Youth Hostel, which is located in a listed manor house.
And it's not far from the youth hostel to the lake. "On your boards, get set, go!" is what you'll hear if you're windsurfing. Young and old can learn how to handle a surfboard and have fun at the same time with an intensive five-day course, with all equipment and clothing you'll need provided.
It's only 15 minutes walk from the youth hostel to the Old Town and you might also like to try out the "Limare" spa and water park directly opposite.
Peace and quiet in nature
Mirow Youth Hostel in the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern region offers water, nature, tranquillity and relaxation. It is situated directly on Lake Mirow, surrounded by romantic forests. Discover the beauty of nature up close on a canoe tour. Qualified instructors will first teach you the technique of canoeing before you'll head out on guided tours through the idyllic lake landscape and devote your undivided attention to Mother Nature herself. And you'll still have enough time to relax in the hostel's own swimming area, on the landing stage or in a hammock, as well as exploring the region.
In-house sailing school
North-western Germany is home to a popular sailing destination, the inland Lake Zwischenahn. The youth hostel not only has direct access to the lake and moorings, but also has a further unique advantage: it has its very own sailing school. There are a number of different sizes of boats available to use.
Youth Hostel guests will enjoy learning how to sail in a relaxed atmosphere under expert tuition and then they can share their experiences and adventures over the camp-fire in the evening.
Let’s dive!
The old Roman town of Xanten is home to an Archaeological Park but also has a "Leisure Centre" incorporating the "North Lake" and "South Lake".
Xanten Youth Hostel is situated directly on the lakeside, offering a wealth of opportunities to try out sailing, windsurfing and water-skiing and also offers a one-week long diving course. Under the expert guidance of professional dive instructors, you'll first get familiar with the equipment and undertake exercises in the shallow water, before heading out into the open water of the South Lake, the highlight of which is exploring a sunken yacht. The week ends with a test and qualification for a certificate.
Canoe tours
The
Youth Hostel in Ratzeburg in Northern Germany, which opened in 2012, is another paradise for keen sailors and also has a lakeside and rooftop terrace providing a magnificent view over Lake Ratzeburg. The youth hostel works closely with two sailing and windsurfing schools and offers exciting activity holidays. Pedalos and paddle boats, water bikes and even dragon boats are also available for hire. Canoe trips through the extensive network of lakes in the region are also extremely popular.
Water sports in the city
Münster Youth Hostel (North Rhine-Westphalia) is the go-to place if you'd prefer to combine water sports with a city tour. The picturesque university town has received many awards for its quality of life and the centrally-located Lake Aasee on the youth hostel's doorstep is a popular recreational area. You'll learn the ropes very quickly here, as you'll need to turn the boats very frequently.
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