On 1 August, this system of small reservoirs, drains, tunnels and waterways joined Rammelsberg mines and Goslar's old town on the list of cultural and natural heritage sites. This system was generating power for mines over 800 years ago and today visitors can explore the system on a network of themed walking trails with information boards that explain aspects such as the fascinating workings of waterwheels.

Bonn - the city on both banks of the Rhine - resounds with sweet music in the autumn. This year, the long-established festival celebrating the musical genius of Ludwig van Beethoven runs from 10 September to 9 October 2010. The Beethoven Festival attracts a host of top-class orchestras, well-known ensembles and soloists, as well as up-and-coming young musicians. The varied programme played in atmospheric venues fills audiences with musical inspiration.

From 18 September to 4 October 2010, the Oktoberfest will be attracting crowds of visitors to Munich once more, and with 2010 marking the 200th birthday of the world's biggest beer festival, there's plenty to celebrate. This year as usual, visitors can witness the traditional barrel-tapping ceremony, party in one of the beer tents or try out some of the many fairground rides. "O'zapft is" as they say in Munich - the fun is on tap.

Lake Schluchsee is the biggest lake in the Black Forest and it offers a wide variety of leisure activities for all ages. Of course, most revolve around water, but there's also plenty to see and do on land. The Aqua Fun leisure pool is a big hit with youngsters, while their parents can enjoy the peace and quiet of the Southern Black Forest nature reserve.

The German Avenues Route, one of the longest scenic routes in Germany, runs for almost 3,000 kilometres from the island of Rügen in the north to Lake Constance in the south. Along the way, you glimpse amazing scenery in the dappled light and the route is particularly impressive when the autumn leaves start to change colour. This leafy tunnel leads to picturesque villages and famous places of interest, where there are plenty of opportunities to take a break and reflect on the journey so far .