Formerly the capital of Württemberg, Bad Urach is a charming heritage town, known particularly for its spa and thermal baths. Set in the foothills of the German Alps, the town has become a favourite of outdoorsy travellers, who can hike and mountain bike in beautiful surroundings. With a growing range of accommodation options on offer in the area, our Gurus have recommended one of the old town’s boutique boltholes as the best place to stay in Bad Urach.

Just 40 minutes’ drive from Stuttgart, Bad Urach is a popular weekend destination for urban dwellers looking to escape the city. Follow marked trails into the alpine foothills, clambering up to admire the 100-foot-tall Urach Waterfall, or spotting 11th-century castle ruins through the undergrowth. Part of the Swabian Alb, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, this region is full of fascinating flora and bird life. Mountain biking and horse riding routes are also great fun.

Wander back into town for healing soaks in thermal baths fed by deep volcanic waters bubbling beneath the earth’s surface, or pick a perch in the cobbled market square for a cold beer or two. The best place to stay in Bad Urach has a great little restaurant, but you’ll find lively eateries in the pretty old town, too, specialising in hearty regional cuisine.

The Best Places to Stay in Bad Urach

For Boutique Chic

• Bischoffs Hotel is a chic, 18-bedroom hotel in the heart of Bad Urach's old town. Expect comfortable contemporary interiors with deep navy-blue walls and bedspreads, pale wooden floors and furnishings, and lots of light. The modern restaurant is hugely popular, and the casual beer bar has its own bowling alley. A great little boutique bolthole.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Stuttgart Airport and travel to Bad Urach by road in around 40 minutes, and rail in just over an hour. Alternatively, arrive in Stuttgart by train from other regional hubs; Germany's extensive railway network makes journeys swift and simple.
• Baden-Wurttemburg is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit during the summer months, with temperatures averaging around 23°C between May and early September. You'll find fewer crowds and great hotel deals outside the school holidays.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Stuttgart.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Baden-Württemburg.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.