A little riverside town just 20 minutes from popular Frankenberg, laid-back Frankenau is a lovely base for those looking to explore this striking part of rural Hesse. There are some good guest houses and hotels in the area, many of which offer very reasonable rates. Our Gurus have chosen to highlight a stunning country house hotel for those dreaming of classic elegance on a bucolic riverbank.

Take the time to stroll around Frankenau’s old town centre, admiring the red-brick church and half-timbered buildings which sit side by side on the main square. Taste regional specialities at family-run taverns, sitting out under big umbrellas in the summer months. There’s a tranquil fishing pond on the edge of town, and some lovely walking trails.

Keen adventurers will find no shortage of routes to explore in the nearby Kellerwald-Edersee National Park, a lush, UNESCO-protected area of dense forests, refreshing lakes and undulating hills. Horse riding, hiking and mountain biking all come highly recommended, and there’s excellent bird watching for patient observers. Return to the best place to stay in Frankenau for delicious dinners, and riverside sundowners in the garden.