Active Pursuits in Lindau

For decades it was possible to rent bikes at the train station, but no more. Today, rentals are available at Unger's Fahrradverleih, Inselgraben 14 (tel. 08382/943688; www.fahrrad-unger.de), close to the train station. The price ranges from 6€ to 18€ per day. The outfitter is open Monday to Friday 9am to 1pm and 3 to 6pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am to 1pm. Lindenhofpark is the most scenic area (it's also ideal for a picnic).

The town has three lakeside beaches, all open in summer Monday to Friday 10:30am to 7:30pm and Saturday and Sunday 10am to 8pm. The biggest beach is Eichwald, about a half-hour walk away along Uferweg (to the right if you're facing the harbor); or take bus no. 1 or 2 to Anheggerstrasse, then bus no. 3 to Karmelbuckel. Admission is 3€ for adults, 2€ for children. To reach Lindenhofbad (tel. 08382/6637; www.seebad-lindenhof.de), take bus no. 1 or 2 to Anheggerstrasse, then bus no. 4 to Alwind. Admission is 3€ for adults and 2€ for children. If you're driving, follow the signs to B31; stay on B31 until you see the exit marked Schachen.