Latest news with #NorthernGermany
Bloomberg
26-06-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
Germany's Largest Gas Storage Still Empty Despite Effort to Fill
Germany's largest gas storage facility failed to allocate capacity at its latest auction, raising risks that the country will struggle to meet legally binding stockpiling targets ahead of winter. The Rehden site in northern Germany remains almost empty, with only a small portion of capacity booked so far this year. Its operator, state-owned Securing Energy for Europe GmbH, didn't specify the reasons for Thursday's failed auction, but said after a previous round that offers outstripped what was allocated, signaling it may be waiting for higher prices.
Grazia USA
23-06-2025
- Grazia USA
Hamburg Rising: GRAZIA's Ultimate Travel Guide To Germany's Most Underrated Luxury Destination
Hamburg Travel Guide; Photo courtesy of The Fontenay There's a quiet elegance about Hamburg. Often overshadowed by Berlin's edge and Munich's classic charm, this Northern German city is a hidden jewel — one where green spaces outnumber skyscrapers, where digital art exhibits and historic landmarks coexist, and where luxury travelers can unwind in serene lakeside sophistication. GRAZIA USA experienced it firsthand in an unforgettable weekend with the city's crown jewel of hospitality, and we're here to give you the ultimate travel guide with all you need to know to plan the perfect German getaway. A BRIEF HISTORY OF HAMBURG WHY GRAZIA RECOMMENDS HAMBURG FOR 2025 WHAT TO DO WHERE TO EAT WHERE TO STAY FINAL THOUGHTS A BRIEF HISTORY OF HAMBURG: THE HANSEATIC HEART OF GERMANY Photo Credit: Andreas Vallbracht, courtesy of Hamburg Marketing Hamburg's roots run deep. As a historic Hanseatic trading port, it has long been Germany's 'Gateway to the World.' The city blossomed into a global maritime hub by the 12th century and still thrives on its riverfront culture today. This history is ever-present — from its meticulously preserved Speicherstadt warehouse district, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the modern HafenCity expansion. But Hamburg isn't stuck in the past. Instead, it honors tradition while embracing the future with cultural dynamism, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability that's turned it into Germany's greenest city. WHY GRAZIA RECOMMENDS HAMBURG FOR 2025 Photo courtesy of The Fontenay Sustainable & Scenic : Nearly 50% of the city is dedicated to green spaces, making it a clean, eco-conscious destination perfect for urban nature lovers. Lake Alster is at the heart of this, where water sports, running paths, and tranquility reign. Culture Capital : From the architectural marvel that is the Elbphilharmonie to the Hamburger Kunsthalle, plus 2025's major openings like TeamLab Borderless and Port des Lumières — and, of course, we can't forget to add that it's the headquarters for GRAZIA Germany — Hamburg is poised to become Europe's next big cultural hotspot. Culinary Cool : With 13 Michelin-starred restaurants, a booming locavore movement, and the debut of its Open Mouth Food Festival in September, Hamburg is a feast for the senses. Easy Access : Eco-minded travelers will appreciate that Hamburg is easily reached by train from other top cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen. WHAT TO DO: THE ULTIMATE WEEKEND IN HAMBURG Thanks to Hamburg Tourism, we embarked on a cultural journey that brought the city to life with depth, creativity, and style. Speicherstadt & HafenCity : UNESCO World Heritage Tour Photo Credit: Julia Schwendner / ThisIsJulia Photography, courtesy of Hamburg Marketing Our weekend began with a guided walking tour through the atmospheric Speicherstadt, the world's largest warehouse complex and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its neo-Gothic brick facades, narrow bridges, and emerald green canals, this area feels like stepping into a storybook. We explored its cobbled walkways and learned how this district once stored spices, coffee, and exotic carpets — remnants of Hamburg's global trade legacy. Our incredibly knowledgeable guide (a local Hambergerin herself) pointed out hidden corners that only locals know. Photo Credit: Julia Schwendner / ThisIsJulia Photography, courtesy of Hamburg Marketing From there, we walked to HafenCity, the city's boldest urban development project that fuses modern architecture with sustainable living. Here, futuristic skyscrapers reflect off the water alongside museums, restaurants, and public spaces buzzing with energy. Bunker St. Pauli : WWII History Reimagined Photo courtesy of Hamburg Marketing Another must-visit spot is St. Pauli, where you can see one of Hamburg's most visionary restoration projects: the repurposed WWII bunker turned cultural hub. Rising above the skyline, the Bunker St. Pauli is now home to a lush rooftop garden, contemporary art installations, and a sleek hotel and café. Standing atop the garden terrace, you're treated to panoramic views of the city while surrounded by wildflowers and sustainable landscaping — a stunning juxtaposition of history and hope. This adaptive reuse project is more than impressive architecture; it's a powerful symbol of Hamburg's progressive spirit and commitment to green living. Port des Lumières : Immersive Art Reimagined We then made our way to one of Hamburg's most anticipated cultural openings: Port des Lumières. Recently debuted this past March, this immersive art space rivals its counterparts in Paris and New York. Here, digital projections of masterpieces envelop the walls, ceilings, and floors, creating an all-encompassing art experience unlike anything else. It's a space that transcends traditional museum formats — one that you feel as much as you see. Though still in its early phases, the vision for Port des Lumières is one of inclusion, creativity, and multisensory engagement. It's bound to become a favorite among art lovers and Instagrammers alike. Elbphilharmonie Plaza : 360° Views with Classical Vibes Photo Credit: Julia Schwendner / ThisIsJulia Photography, courtesy of Hamburg Marketing Even if you don't have tickets to one of the world-class concerts inside, the Elbphilharmonie Plaza is an experience in itself. Perched high above the harbor, the viewing platform offers a sweeping 360-degree panorama of Hamburg's skyline, port, and winding waterways. We took the curved escalator up to the plaza, emerging into a space that felt like a spaceship crossed with an opera house. The modern architectural lines contrast beautifully with the old-world charm of the city below. For music lovers and design enthusiasts alike, this stop is not to be missed. Harbor Cruise : The Best Way to See Hamburg Photo Credit: Christian Brandes, courtesy of Hamburg Marketing One of the best ways to understand Hamburg is by water. We boarded a harbor cruise from Landungsbrücken and spent the next hour gliding through the city's network of canals and shipping routes. The guide shared fascinating facts about the port's operations, the mega-containers docked nearby, and the city's role in international trade. What made this cruise so unique was the perspective it offered — the city felt grand yet accessible, industrial yet peaceful. Whether sipping a hot chocolate in winter or enjoying a spritz in summer, it's a must for any Hamburg itinerary. Portuguese Quarter : Galão & Natas Tucked behind the busy harborfront, Hamburg's Portuguese Quarter is a cultural treasure that feels like a slice of Lisbon. Here, you'll find cobbled streets lined with family-run restaurants, wine bars, and pastry shops. We stopped for a traditional Galao (Portuguese coffee with milk) and a warm pastel de nata at a sunny sidewalk café and immediately understood why this area is a local favorite. It's lively yet peaceful — perfect for a late afternoon recharge between sightseeing stops. Old Elbe Tunnel : Changing Perspectives Photo Credit: Julia Schwendner / ThisIsJulia Photography, courtesy of Hamburg Marketing If you're seeking a different vantage point of Hamburg, don't miss the Old Elbe Tunnel (Alter Elbtunnel). Originally opened in 1911, this historic pedestrian tunnel runs beneath the Elbe River and offers one of the most unique ways to cross the harbor. Walking or biking through the tiled tunnel is a nostalgic experience, and emerging on the south side reveals a hidden gem: a breathtaking view back toward Hamburg's skyline and harbor mile. It's a perfect spot for a photo op, especially at golden hour. Sternschanze + Karolinenviertel : Hamburg's Trendiest Neighborhoods We closed out our weekend exploring two of Hamburg's trendiest districts. In Sternschanze, we can browse indie fashion boutiques, art bookstores, and vinyl shops, all while catching glimpses of the city's street art scene. Every corner seemed to tell a story. We grabbed coffee and vegan pastries from a Scandinavian-inspired café and sat among locals, soaking in the laid-back vibe. Just a short stroll away is Karolinenviertel — a more bohemian, artistic enclave where old buildings have been reborn as galleries, vintage stores, and multicultural eateries. It's the perfect spot to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir or discover emerging design talent. WHERE TO EAT: HAMBURG'S FLAVORFUL SIDE Photo courtesy of The Fontenay Bistro Carmagnole : A cozy, French-inspired bistro in the heart of Sternschanze with natural wines, candlelit ambiance, and one of the best steak tartares in town. Perfect for a stylish but low-key dinner among locals. : A cozy, French-inspired bistro in the heart of Sternschanze with natural wines, candlelit ambiance, and one of the best steak tartares in town. Perfect for a stylish but low-key dinner among locals. Bullerei : A beloved brasserie-meets-steakhouse in a former cattle hall. : A beloved brasserie-meets-steakhouse in a former cattle hall. Café Johanna : Minimalist café fare done right, near the harbor. : Minimalist café fare done right, near the harbor. Carls Brasserie : French flair meets Hamburg harbor views at this classic brasserie offering refined German-French fusion. : French flair meets Hamburg harbor views at this classic brasserie offering refined German-French fusion. Haco : Chic Nordic dining with seasonal menus. : Chic Nordic dining with seasonal menus. Lakeside at The Fontenay : With two Michelin stars, this is a destination unto itself. Helmed by head chef Julian Stowasser and featuring wine pairings curated by Master Sommelier Stefanie Hehn, Lakeside blends bold creativity with panoramic lake views. Highlights include unexpected vegetable-forward dishes, immaculate presentation, and a juice pairing option that rivals fine wine flights. : NENI Hamburg : A rooftop favorite blending Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with spectacular city views. : A rooftop favorite blending Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with spectacular city views. Oberhafenkantine : This quirky, crooked house serves traditional Hamburg fare in a kitschy-yet-charming atmosphere. : This quirky, crooked house serves traditional Hamburg fare in a kitschy-yet-charming atmosphere. Parkview Restaurant : Located within The Fontenay, Parkview offers refined yet approachable cuisine made with regional ingredients. Breakfast is a standout — with champagne and caviar options for those in the mood to celebrate. Pesca – Theatre of Fish : Seafood lovers will swoon over this lively, communal-style dining experience with fresh daily catches. : Seafood lovers will swoon over this lively, communal-style dining experience with fresh daily catches. Wild Scandinavian Cooking: A modern culinary gem known for its inventive Nordic dishes in a stylish setting. WHERE TO STAY: THE FONTENAY – HAMBURG'S ULTIMATE LUXURY RETREAT Photo courtesy of The Fontenay Nestled like a secret garden on the shores of Lake Alster, The Fontenay is more than just a place to stay — it's an architectural love letter to modern luxury and Hamburg's cosmopolitan spirit. Designed by the acclaimed German architect Jan Störmer, the hotel's sculptural, flowing design is made up of three overlapping circles — ensuring that there's not a single sharp angle in sight. The concept is simple yet powerful: everything in flow. And the result is a tranquil, light-filled masterpiece that reflects both the surrounding nature and the elegance of the city itself. Design & Architecture Photo courtesy of The Fontenay As soon as you arrive at the curved, tree-lined entrance, you're struck by how unique this property is. The hotel appears to float among the greenery, and its endless glass surfaces reflect the lake, trees, and sky. Inside, the 27-meter-high atrium feels like a futuristic greenhouse. A striking light sculpture dangles overhead like illuminated branches, and the semi-circular layout creates a rhythm of movement and openness that puts you instantly at ease. Photo courtesy of The Fontenay There's no traditional lobby desk here. Instead, you're welcomed by name, invited to sit in plush lounge seating, and offered a refreshment while you check in — a simple but elegant touch that sets the tone for your stay. The Rooms Photo courtesy of The Fontenay We stayed in a Deluxe Lakeview Room, and from the moment I stepped inside, I felt cocooned in serenity. Floor-to-ceiling windows framed a postcard-perfect view of the Alster Lake, and the soft, natural tones of the room's palette created an instant sense of calm. Every detail has been considered — from the Italian plaster walls and oak parquet flooring to the ultra-quiet blinds, underfloor heating, and high-tech features that blend seamlessly into the decor. The room's curved walls made it feel almost like a luxury yacht cabin, with no hard lines to disrupt the tranquility. The private balcony was the ideal spot for a morning coffee or golden-hour glass of wine. Photo courtesy of The Fontenay The Fontenay also offers 17 suites for travelers seeking a more elevated experience. The most opulent of them all — the Fontenay Suite — spans 200 square meters and includes two bedrooms, a full kitchen, a dining table for 10, and panoramic lake views. There's even a grand piano in the Alster Suite. It's no wonder celebrities and dignitaries regularly check in here when passing through Hamburg. Wellness at Fontenay Spa Photo courtesy of The Fontenay The 1,000-square-meter spa is a retreat within a retreat. Located on the hotel's top floor, it features a stunning 20-meter indoor-outdoor infinity pool that visually merges with the lake. We can quite literally spend hours here — floating, relaxing in the panoramic sauna, and sipping herbal tea on the sun terrace. The spa also includes steam rooms, experience showers, an ice well, and a fully equipped Technogym fitness center. Guests looking for an even more exclusive experience can book the Private Spa Suite, which includes a whirlpool, sauna, steam bath, and lounge area with a TV. Treatments use cutting-edge clean beauty brands like La Biosthétique and TetCode4®, and every therapist you encounter is professional, warm, and intuitive. Culinary Excellence Photo courtesy of The Fontenay Lakeside : Perched on the top floor, Lakeside is Hamburg's two-Michelin-starred culinary jewel. Chef Julian Stowasser's dishes are daring, refined, and visually stunning, while Master Sommelier Stefanie Hehn's wine and non-alcoholic pairings elevate the entire experience. From the amuse-bouche to dessert, every bite is a revelation. The atmosphere is equally dazzling, with sweeping views of the city skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows. Photo courtesy of The Fontenay Parkview : This sun-drenched restaurant serves one of the best hotel breakfasts you'll find in Hamburg. The buffet features local cheeses, fresh charcuterie, organic jams, and warm croissants, while the à la carte menu includes specialties like buttermilk waffles with berry compote and the signature Hanseatic slice (topped with beef tartare and caviar). At lunch and dinner, the menu leans into seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with a creative twist. During the evenings, as the sun dips over Lake Alster, the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lake and gardens turn the space into a romantic setting for a dinner reservation. Here you can enjoy a tranquil, refined atmosphere with flawless service. The chef's seasonal asparagus menu, a celebration of northern Germany's beloved white asparagus, features dishes like delicately poached asparagus with hollandaise paired with Wiener Schnitzel. Each course is beautifully plated and bursting with flavor, offering a fresh and elegant interpretation of a classic local tradition. The wine pairing is equally thoughtful, enhancing the depth of flavor in each course. With its tranquil ambiance and impeccable service, dining at Parkview feels like slipping into a quiet moment of luxury — elevated, effortless, and distinctly Hamburg. Photo courtesy of The Fontenay Atrium Lounge : For afternoon tea or a sweet pick-me-up, the Atrium Lounge offers exquisite pastries crafted by Marco D'Andrea, the hotel's award-winning pâtissier. Try a seasonal macaron while surrounded by the atrium's dramatic architecture. Photo courtesy of The Fontenay Fontenay Bar : With a 320° terrace view, this bar is a local favorite as well as a guest must-visit. We loved the showmanship of the 'Wormwood Wagon' — a rolling bar cart where bespoke vermouth drinks are mixed tableside using rare bitters, essences, and fruit-infused spirits. The drink menu blends heritage with innovation, and the ambiance is glamorous without being pretentious. Hospitality: The Fontenay Experience Photo courtesy of The Fontenay What sets The Fontenay apart is the sincerity and warmth of its staff, and what truly makes The Fontenay unforgettable is its service. General Manager Thies Sponholz' philosophy — hospitality that's heartfelt and unforced — is felt in every interaction. Every staff member we encountered, from the concierge to the sommelier, embodied quiet confidence, warmth, and genuine care. No request felt too big or too small. Photo courtesy of The Fontenay By the end of our stay, we felt known, welcomed, and utterly relaxed. From the seamless check-in (no front desk — just a sit-down conversation) to personalized recommendations, the service is unmatched. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a cultural city break, or a luxury wellness escape, The Fontenay isn't just a recommendation — it's a reason to visit Hamburg. FINAL THOUGHTS Photo Credit: Andreas Vallbracht, courtesy of Hamburg Marketing Hamburg may be a well-kept secret, but not for long. With its blend of cultural depth, eco-conscious innovation, world-class food, and lakeside luxury, it's the ideal city for modern travelers looking to be inspired — and rejuvenated. Book your escape. Let Hamburg surprise you. Let The Fontenay spoil you. topics: travel guide, TRAVEL, Luxury Travel, Germany, Hamburg, europe
Yahoo
21-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
German camp memorial offers Russian tour to mark 'forgotten victims'
A memorial for the Nazi-era concentration camp of Bergen-Belsen in northern Germany is set to offer a guided tour in Russian on Sunday to commemorate the site's "forgotten victims" from the Soviet Union. The camp, which was liberated by the British Army in April 1945, is well known as the place where Jewish schoolgirl Anne Frank died during World War II. However, it also included some 20,000 Soviet prisoners of war who were forced to work in the camp after July 1941. With insufficient accommodation available, the men lived in open fields and sought shelter in makeshift huts and caves. More than 14,000 of them died of cold, hunger and disease in the winter of 1941-42 alone. To mark the 84th anniversary of Nazi Germany's invasion of the Soviet Union, a 90-minute tour is to be offered in German and Russian, leading from the memorial site to the nearby prisoner of war cemetery. There are 19,580 people buried in the cemetery, with historian Katja Seybold working on creating a list of the names of those who died. Almost 13,000 of the names have been identified, the researcher said. Interviews with surviving prisoners of war can be listened to at the Bergen-Belsen Documentation Centre. Interest in the fate of the prisoners of war is growing, said Seybold. Many Ukrainians who have fled to Germany in recent years have also visited the memorial and the cemetery. The prisoner of war camp closed three months before the site's liberation by the British Army. According to Seybold, this may explain why the fate of the prisoners of war was left untold for so long. A total of some 70,000 people lost their lives at Bergen-Belsen. Around 120,000 men, women and children were interned in the concentration camp between 1943 and 1945, around 52,000 of whom died.
The Guardian
09-06-2025
- The Guardian
Denmark's adventure playground: why the Aarhus region is a must-visit for outdoor-lovers
Whether you're a seasoned adventurer ready to take a multi-day canoe trip through Denmark's varied landscapes, or you just want to find some peace in nature on an afternoon hike, the diverse outdoor attractions of Aarhus and the surrounding region offer everyone a chance to explore at their leisure. Located in Jutland, the mainland peninsula of Denmark that borders northern Germany, this area is full of spectacular nature experiences, from glorious sandy beaches to ancient landscapes shaped by the ice age. Can you be outdoorsy in a city? Aarhus says you can. From its numerous biking routes to its royal hunting forest, not to mention its harbour, Denmark's second city has a lot to offer. The city's harbour baths, floating swimming pools in the clear, clean harbour, are a great place to start. Opened in 2018, they quickly became a popular hangout on a sunny day, and incorporate a range of different pools, sundecks and diving platforms. It's all free – just bring a swimsuit and a towel. There are plenty of other water-based activities to try in Aarhus, too. At La Sauna, you can try the Danish tradition of saunagus. It's a combination of sweat, scent oils, music and low lighting, with a saunagus master on hand to guide you through three intense sessions over the course of about an hour. Surf Agency, also in the city, offers paddleboard trips and kiteboarding options, led by certified teachers. You don't have to have any experience of these sports as there are courses suitable for all levels. The calm waters around the Aarhus coastline offer ideal conditions for paddleboarding in particular, so it makes for an unforgettable day out that the whole family can share. Beyond the water, head to Marselisborg Forests just outside the city centre for walks under beech trees and a 16-mile mountain bike trail. The 550-hectare forest has a deer park, campsites, old watermills and even an amusement park among the trees. Locals love the True Forest, a favourite picnic spot and hiking and running area. Funny you should ask: Djursland, 40 minutes' drive north-east of Aarhus, happens to be the area's unofficial adventure playground. Much of it is given over to Mols Bjerge national park, a beautiful, diverse area of landscape that includes forests of ancient trees, little harbours, swathes of sandy beaches and pastures. It's also home to the very pretty town of Ebeltoft, where you can pick up the ingredients you need for a picnic. Mols Bjerge is renowned as a great place to go hiking – the 50-mile Mols Bjerge mountain trail is one of the best known – and you'll find everything from castle ruins to troll forests in the ice-age scenery along its route. Beyond the national park, there are some lovely coastal cycling routes in this gentle scenery. As well as paths that wind in and out of woodlands and small villages, there are a number of routes along old railway lines and, near Ebeltoft, an established mountain bike route. Much of the scenery in this area is harmonious and gentle – rolling hills that sink down to gently shelving beaches. Karlby and Sangstrup Cliffs are a neat counterpoint to all of this: two rather unusual sandstone cliffs three miles long and 17 metres high on the northern part of Djursland. On the rocky beaches beneath them, you're likely to find fossils, including petrified sea urchins, and even stone-age flints. Look out for porpoises just offshore. An hour's drive to the north-west of Aarhus, Viborg offers more adventures in Danish nature. It's the starting point for one of Denmark's most ancient routes: the Hærvejen, or the ancient road, which runs down the spine of Jutland. The full 620-mile route can be done on foot or by bike, staying at little hostels along the way. A bit like the South West Coast Path in the UK, it can be broken up into distinct sections so you do it over multiple trips, exploring forests and lakes and towns established by the Vikings. The main stage is from Viborg to Jelling, along which you can discover some of Jutland's most beautiful scenery, from heather-clad hills to quiet paths winding past large dolmen and burial mounds. You'll end your journey at the Jelling Stone, one of Denmark's most significant Viking sights. Viborg may be inland, almost equidistant from Jutland's east and west coasts, but there's still lots of water to enjoy. At the Viborg lakes Nørresø and Søndersø, you can swim, fish for carp or go paddleboarding. A bike ride around the lakes shows the town off from all its angles. It's also a good place for a troll hunt: scrapwood artist Thomas Dambo has hidden one of his many trolls in the Viborg area. The river delta at Randers, 45 minutes' drive north of Aarhus, is the ideal location if you like to canoe. The country's longest river, the Gudenåen, flows through the city and from there you can pick up a number of extraordinary canoeing adventures, suitable for all abilities, where you can travel across broad lakes, paddle past old mill villages and explore the natural wildlife as you go. Kingfishers flit across the water and the peace and quiet you'll discover is magical. It's easy to do it as a day trip from the city. Beyond the river, Randers offers plenty of space to breathe, notably along the Randers Fjord, where reed beds grow, ready to be used in thatched roofs, and yachts sail gently by. For wildlife lovers, Naturpark Randers Fjord is not to be missed. This stunning nature reserve encompasses the area where the fjord meets the saltwater of the Kattegat, the strait joining the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, and tidal flats and salt meadows fringe the water. It's a lovely area for hiking and birdwatching – eagles have been spotted – as well as boating. In the summer, the area's many shelters offer a chance to sleep out under Denmark's wide, starry skies. Discover the outdoor soul of Denmark in the Aarhus region
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Yahoo
Suspect in Hamburg station attack to be placed in psychiatric clinic
A magistrate has ordered the 39-year-old suspect in the knife attack at Hamburg's central train station to be placed in a psychiatric institution, police said on Saturday. The stabbing on Friday saw 18 people injured in the northern German city. The 39-year-old suspect, who was detained shortly after the incident, is accused of 15 cases of attempted manslaughter combined with grievous bodily harm. According to earlier police reports, the act was not politically motivated. "On the contrary, there are now very concrete indications that the suspect is mentally ill," police said.
