© Deutsche Bodensee Tourismus GmbH
Apple Growing on Lake Constance
The Joy of a Crisp Bite
10.2.202610 min. read timeby Hirsch & Greif
Experience Lake Constance at its most fruitful - a unique cultural landscape shaped by apple orchards, tradition, a mild climate, and regional delicacies.
Big Apple Fact Check
Apples: More Than Just a Sweet Treat
Apples are Germany’s favourite fruit. They are as much a part of Lake Constance as Black Forest gateau is of the Black Forest. The Lake Constance region is Germany’s second-largest fruit-growing area. Apple trees have been growing here for more than 1,000 years – originally in the gardens of the wealthy. From the 18th century onwards, the Lake Constance region developed into a major fruit-growing area. Frederick II ordered apple trees to be planted by royal decree. At the time, the apple was considered a symbol of a well-governed country. If that still holds true today, the Lake Constance region can’t be doing too badly. Ever.
© Deutsche Bodensee Tourismus GmbH
Where great taste grows
Lake Constance apples have a long history.
SÜDEN FACTSSÜDEN FACTSSÜDEN FACTSSÜDEN FACTSSÜDEN FACTS
90%
of the fruit-growing land around Lake Constance is devoted to apple orchards.
Around 1,400
farmers grow apples around Lake Constance.
18th Century:
the Lake Constance region became a ‘Big Apple’ in its own right.
1.25 Billion
apples are produced each year.
250,000 tonnes
is the typical annual apple harvest in the Lake Constance region.
Äpfel
the German word for apples, can also mean ‘head’ in southern German dialect: ‘Don’t stick your head so far out of the window!’
Stories From an Apple’s Life
At a Glance
1
The Latin name for the apple is Malus – meaning ‘evil’. The apple owes this association to the biblical expulsion from Paradise.
2
The ancestors of today’s apples travelled from Asia along ancient trade routes to Southern and Eastern Europe.
3
The Greeks considered the apple to be an aphrodisiac.
4
For the Celts, the apple symbolised death and rebirth; for Germanic peoples, it represented immortality.
5
In the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation, the apple symbolised the globe. Known as the Imperial Orb, it was held in the ruler’s left hand during coronation ceremonies.
A Holiday in Lake Constance's Apple Paradise
Sunshine, Lake, and a Little Apple Bliss
Today, around 20 different varieties of apple are grown around Lake Constance. The unique climate in the Alpine foothills provides ideal growing conditions for this member of the rose family, with sunshine almost all year round. As a result, the apples not only taste delicious but are also healthy and wonderfully refreshing. The Lake Constance apple harvest begins in early August with the first summer varieties. September and October are the main harvest season for autumn apples. Each year, around 1,400 farmers harvest approximately 250,000 tonnes of apples around Lake Constance. Thanks to varieties that store well, such as Jonagold, Elstar, Idared and Gala, Lake Constance apples are available year-round in well-stocked supermarkets.
Tip
Blessed with abundant sunshine, the northern Lake Constance region is a top spot for hiking and cycling. Sunscreen is essential, but bringing fruit is not. That would be like carrying coals to Newcastle. Many orchard owners operate small roadside stalls where you can stock up fresh fruit. Simply leave a small contribution in the cash box provided and tuck into some crisp delights.
© TMBW
© TMBW
© TMBW
The Apple: A Healthy Snack
'An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away.'
Apples are made up of 85% water. The remaining 15% are packed with more than 30 vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Their natural fruit acids have a beneficial effect on oral health. Eating apples regularly helps stimulate fat burning and contributes to overall well-being.If quality and sustainability matter to you, the farm shops around Lake Constance are the perfect place to visit. Local farmers are deeply rooted in the region and passionate about what they do – and you can taste it. Whether enjoyed fresh from the orchard or in the form of homemade fruit brandies, apple chips, apple preserves and many other specialties, Lake Constance apples are simply delicious and make an excellent gift to take home.
© Deutsche Bodensee Tourismus GmbH
A Love of Apples
Apples are both healthy and refreshing.
A Taste of Autumn at Lake Constance
Where Apples Blush with Delight
As summer slowly draws to a close, Lake Constance reveals its fruitiest side. Amid colourful vineyards and traditional orchards, gentle mists and golden light, the focus is on relaxation and culinary delights – and, of course, apples: freshly picked, aromatic and available in a remarkable array of varieties. Discover the full spectrum of apple flavours on tours through picturesque orchards, while browsing local farm shops or at autumn events. From mid-September to early November, harvest season becomes a feast for the senses – a delicious autumn experience that showcases the region at its very best.A Variety of Delights for Apple Lovers
Tip
Lake Constance is home to numerous farm cafés, particularly during harvest season. If you are exploring the countryside around Lake Constance, be sure to stop for a delicious treat. Wonderful views of traditional orchards and Lake Constance are included.
FAQ: Apple Growing at Lake Constance
Plan Your Lake Constance Apple Experience with These Tips
