Aerial view of Mainau island on Lake Constance, Germany

The flower island of Lake Constance

From this height, it's not immediately obvious why this island in Lake Constance, at the northern foot of the Alps, is nicknamed the “flower island”. But even from up here, you can see that Mainau has much to offer nature lovers. Millions of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths bloom there in spring while rhododendrons, azaleas and roses can be admired in summer, dahlias bloom in autumn and, in the cold months, the island is transformed into a winter garden.

Lake Constance is Europe’s third largest freshwater lake, found where Germany, Switzerland and Austria meet. Due to its mild temperatures, palm trees and other Mediterranean plants can be found growing on Mainau. No wonder its gardens and parks are such a popular destination.