The most northerly of Germany's mountain system is the Harz Mountains, a wonderful realm with some sparkling historic treasures. One of these is the majestic Fairytale Road, a tourist route dotted with the inspirational settings for some of the most renowned children's stories. Follow the life of the Brothers Grimm past castles, towers and picturesque town squares and even see Hameln in the flesh, the town the pied piper rid of its rats.
Tour Germany to see Goslar, chosen as the site of the impressive Imperial Palace, or the historic towns bordering the slopes of the Southern Harz. Visit the copper mining town of Sangerhausen with its unique collection of roses, or take a ride on the Harzer Schmalbahn, a living museum where you can take a seat in one of the historic carriages and watch the hillsides, woodlands and valleys roll by.