The River Fulda rises from one of Germany´s largest treasure troves: from deep underneath the protected Rhön moorlands biosphere reserve, where densely wooded peaks as well as treeless highlands allow magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. The Fulda carves its way through the Volcanic rock of the Vogelsberg, until it reaches Waldhessen, Hessen´s most densely wooded region.

On its way through the hills of the Kurhessisches Bergland  region, the Fulda provides another change of scenery, before taking its leave when it reaches the area around Kassel. The diversity of the landscape along the Fulda is matched by the diversity of its cities (see picture). The episcopal town of Fulda with its baroque cathedral and the Residence palace sets a tone which is full of splendour.

The famous Bad Hersfeld Festival takes place in Europe's largest Romanesque church ruins, with theatre, musicals, opera and concerts. Picturesque medieval half-timbered buildings await you in Rotenburg an der Fulda (see picture) and in Melsungen. And shortly after the Eder has joined the Fulda, the former residential capital, Kassel, appears. The centre of the German Fairytale Route, with the Brothers Grimm Museum and with the art exhibition Documenta, Kassel can be seen as the hub for the arts. The wild River Eder, a tributary to the Fulda, was tamed by the Eder dam and supplies the water for one of the most beautiful lakes in Hessen, the Eder lake. Embedded in a varied landscape the lake invites you to enjoy water-sports or boat trips.