BADEN-BADEN, Germany -- As one might expect of a town named
"Baths-Baths," this ritzy Black Forest burg is a top spa mecca.
But there's more to the town than mineral springs and massages,
and clients who crave culture, a night out or a break from the
sauna have many options.
Any adventure should begin in Lichetentaler Allee, a 100-acre
park that's home to the Kunsthalle, or State Art Gallery, which
hosts exhibits of modern art.
The nearby Kurhaus features a restaurant, gardens, high-end
shops and, in one wing, the lavish Spielbank, Germany's oldest
casino. The casino provides gaming lessons, and tours are available
every half-hour each morning.
Surprisingly, this town of about 53,000 is home to Europe's
second-largest concert hall, the Festspielhaus. Converted from a
railway station five years ago, the 2,560-seat hall is a popular
venue for major music and dance companies.
Performances this year include New York's Met Orchestra on Aug.
18 and 19 and the Hamburg Ballet Oct. 15 to 20; for more
information, visit www.festspielhaus.de on line.
For diversions farther afield, clients can hire cars to explore
the Rebland wine country surrounding Baden-Baden, via the B500
highway, also known as the Black Forest Scenic Road.
For more information, contact the German National Tourist Office
at (212) 661-7200 or visit www.visits-to-germany.com. Or, visit www.baden-baden.de/en/index.html.