Germanys Exquisite Crafted Stories

Glass Art From The Harz Mountains
From magnificent Christmas decorations and glass quills to exclusive vases and lampshades - the Harzkristall factory in Derenburg is one of the few examples of glassworks in Germany that still produces hand-blown glass objects. You can experience how glassblowers and glassmakers create drinking glasses or filigree decorative objects on a guided tour of the glassworks. See at close quarters how works of art are created from one of the oldest raw materials in the world and learn all about this traditional craft and its millennia-old history. Get creative and design a colourful decorative ball or cast a handprint in glass. 

The Goldsmiths' Art From Bavaria 

Meet goldsmith and designer Florian Weidlich. From a bracelet with a Bavarian lion to a tie pin in the shape of lederhosen &ndash he draws inspiration for designs from his Bavarian homeland. Born in Rosenheim, his profession follows an old Bavarian tradition - the goldsmith's art flourished here as early as the beginning of the 19th century, when the court of Ludwig I promoted this craft through its need for crowns, diadems and royal jewellery. 

The Iconic Cuckoo Clock from the Black Forest 

Throughout the world, the cuckoo clock is inseparably associated with its home in the Black Forest. As early as 1840, there were 1,000 clock makers here every third clock in the world came from the Black Forest. Today it is a truly iconic collectible made in Germany - from mass produced clocks through to high-end premium ones. Take a trip down the German Clock Road which leads through one of the most impressive landscapes of the Black Forest and is one of the most beautiful holiday routes in Germany.

The Beach Baskets Of Mecklenburg
The sturdy wicker beach baskets of Germany are famous for their stability &ndash you can even enjoy stormy days in them, all snuggled up against the inclement weather. The success story of the robust two-piece wooden frame and wickerwork began on the white sandy beaches of Mecklenburg more than a century ago. Since then, it has been an integral part of the German bathing lifestyle. It has its origins in the wicker armchairs with high backs and sides that basket makers once made to help protect against draughts. With extendable footrests, adjustable backrests, awnings and side tables, the baskets can be found on both the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, and are as much a part of German beach holidays as seaside resorts and fish rolls.