A little town just south of Reutlingen in Baden-Württemburg, Sonnenbühl is a lovely destination for outdoorsy travellers eager to explore the plateau of the Swabian Alb. Appealingly walkable, this red-roofed community is surrounded by verdant pastures and undulating hills criss-crossed with trails. There are some great guesthouses and small hotels in the area, many of which are family-run and very affordable. Our pick of the best places to stay in Sonnenbühl actually sits just outside of the town, promising classic charm and fabulous regional fare.

Spend your days hiking and cycling along winding paths, soaking up beautiful views as you zip through little villages and past vast stretches of farmland. Keen golfers will be delighted to play at some of the four nearby courses, whilst families can enjoy fun-filled days out at Dreamland on the Bear Cave, a popular amusement park with a petting zoo. Head out to the Hochwiesen-Pfullinger Berg nature preserve for big forests and fields full of wildflowers in the summer.

History buffs, on the other hand, will be thrilled by towering Schloss Lichtenstein, which offers regular guided tours and dazzling valley views. The region’s cave network is another highlight, with Nebelhöhle and Bärenhöhle being two very impressive sites. Whether you’re dreaming of intrepid cycling adventures or cracking cuisine, the best place to stay in Sonnenbühl is a brilliant base for a trip to remember.