Roth, Germany Cruises

For a river cruise, the port of Roth, Germany definitely has some treasures to offer. Located within the German state of Bavaria, Roth is also the district capital and has a written history that dates back almost 1000 years. Known as a place that was able to grant asylum during the Middle Ages, this practice eventually saw Huguenot refugees enter the city after fleeing France from religious persecution. Thanks to these freedom-seekers, the residents of Roth gained knowledge of winemaking, an industry which still exists today. Most of the area's tourist attractions are related to its old architecture, with structures in place that were originally built in the 1530s. This part of Germany is also popular for its Franconian Lake District, where weekend getaways among the Bavarians (and tourists from around the world) during warmer weather. Listed below are a handful of our favorite experiences when cruising to Roth, Germany:

• Roth's main attraction is the castle and museum called Schloss Ratibor. Originally a hunting lodge, it was built between 1535 and 1538, fell into neglect, and purchased in 1792 as a court and factory, before getting refurbished as a residence. It's a remarkable sight for its various styles of decor, ranging from German Renaissance to Louis XVI.
   
• The late Gothic Protestant Church was originally erected between 1511 and 1513 and renovated in 1738 where it was completely redone in Baroque fashion. Between these two architectural approaches and the Neo-Gothic tower built after a fire in 1878, it's another eclectic-looking piece of architecture within the city walls.
   
• The Marktplatz (Market Square) is a charming area full of shops and restaurants. Surrounded by cheerfully-painted buildings and a cobblestone walk, it's like stepping back into time as you take a break from the hustle and bustle of life.
   
• The Lake District, which isn't terribly far south of the city, is a great place to spend if you have several days; if time is an issue, you can always visit the designated Nature Reserve at the northwest corner of Roth Lake, where you can see protected birds and other wildlife who call this home.