A true paradise for nature lovers, the island of Mainau on Lake Constance is also a delight for children thanks to its many playgrounds. We invite you to discover the various attractions of this lush island, which is one of the most flowery destinations in Baden-Württemberg, in the southwest of Germany.
The island of flowers
The Island of Mainau on Lake Constance is well deserving of its nickname Flower Island. The third largest island on the lake, it offers an idyllic setting of 45 hectares where exotic species flourish.
Indeed, the mild climate allows palm trees and tropical or Mediterranean plants to grow in the island's gardens and in the park of its baroque castle.
An arboretum with over 500 different species of trees was even created in 1856 to the northwest of the castle. It houses impressive giant sequoias, cedars and tulip trees.
Every spring, tourists flock by Bridge or boat to watch the spring bulbs bloom like tulips, hyacinths and daffodils in the famous Spring Alley.
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At the same time, the tropical greenhouse is hosting a large orchid exhibition between late March and early April. From May to June, it is the Italian-style rose garden that attracts all eyes.
In autumn, too, the flowers continue to bloom on this island attached to a district of the city of Constance: visitors then flock to the South Garden to admire the blooming of 20,000 dahlias of 250 different varieties!
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The children's paradise
Accessible for free under 12, Mainau Island offers many attractions for younger children.
Children can play and let off steam freely in the Mainau-Kinderland, 'children's paradise'. Here they can explore different worlds such as the water world, the dwarf village or the world of Lake Blumi...
In the children's zoo, they can meet many animals such as goats, chickens, rabbits and alpacas, and take pony rides.
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In this kids friendly destination, kids will never be bored thanks in part to the scavenger hunt designed for them. Six riddles guide children through the island and invite them to discover its history and unlock the secret of the legendary Mainau treasure.
Since 2022, a Boby-Car-Park Track has allowed budding car racers to ride in the children's vehicle of their choice.
A magical visit for the whole family
Parents and grandparents will also find something to marvel at on the Flower Island at Lake Constance! In addition to its lush flora, the island is home to a family-friendly attraction: the butterfly greenhouse.
The 1000 square meter butterfly greenhouse on Mainau Island is the second largest of its kind in Germany.
It is open year-round and offers the opportunity to admire some 120 species of exotic butterflies from Africa, Asia, Central and South America.
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These colorful specimens are a delight for young and old alike and confirm Mainau as the perfect destination to take in the sights for a day or more.