3Spreewald, Brandenburg

Just an hour outside of Berlin, the Spreewald is a serene, forested biosphere reserve where time seems to slow down. Known as the “Venice of the North,” the Spreewald is crisscrossed by a network of canals that flow through dense forests and quiet villages. The best way to explore this peaceful area is by traditional wooden punts, which glide along the water. The region is famous for its gherkins, and no visit is complete without sampling the local specialty, Spreewald pickles.