© 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 characterized by apple orchards, tradition, a mild climate, and regional delicacies.
Big Apple Fact Check
Apples: More Than Just Sweet Fruit
The apple is the Germans’ favorite fruit. It belongs to Lake Constance just as much as the cherry cake belongs to the Black Forest. The Lake Constance region is the second-largest fruit-growing area in Germany. Apple trees have been growing here for more than 1,000 years - back then, in the gardens of the wealthy. Starting in the 18th century, the Lake Constance area transformed into a fruit-growing region. Frederick II decreed the cultivation of apple trees from above. At that time, the apple was considered a symbol of a well-governed country. If that’s still true today, the Lake Constance region can’t be doing too badly. Never.
© 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 area around Lake Constance is dedicated to apple orchards.
Around 1,400
farmers cultivate apples around Lake Constance.
In the 18th
century, the Lake Constance region transformed into the Big Apple of the era.
Roughly 1.25
billion apples are produced.
250,000 tonnes
is the typical annual apple harvest in the Lake Constance region.
"Äpfel"
In theSouthwest German vernacular, Apfel ("apple") can also mean "head". As the saying goes: "Streck dei Äpfel net so wit aus em Fenschter!"
Stories From an Apple’s Life
At One Glance
1
In Latin, the apple is called “Malus” - meaning “evil.” The apple owes this name to the biblical expulsion from the Garden of Eden.
2
The ancestors of the apple came from Asia to Southern and Eastern Europe via ancient trade routes.
3
The Greeks considered the apple to be an aphrodisiac.
4
For the Celts, the apple symbolized death and rebirth; for the Germanic peoples, it was a symbol of immortality.
5
In the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation, the apple symbolized the globe. Known as the Imperial Apple, it was held in the ruler’s left hand during coronation ceremonies.
Holidays in Lake Constance's Apple Paradise
Sun, Lake, and a Touch of Apple Bliss
Today, around 20 different apple varieties are grown in the Lake Constance region. The unique climate of the Alpine foothills provides ideal conditions for this member of the rose family. With sunshine for most of the year, the apples not only taste excellent, they are also healthy and refreshing.The Lake Constance apple harvest begins as early as August with the first summer apple varieties. September and October mark the peak harvest season for autumn apples. Around 1,400 farmers harvest approximately 250,000 tonnes of apples in the Lake Constance region each year. Thanks to storage varieties 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 stands where visitors can pick up fresh fruit. Just drop a few coins into the honesty box and enjoy nature's crispest refreshment.
© TMBW
© TMBW
© TMBW
The Apple: A Healthy Snack to Sink Your Teeth Into
"An apple a day keeps the doctor away."
Apples are made up of 85% water. The remaining 15% pack a powerful punch, containing more than 30 vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Their natural fruit acids have a beneficial effect on oral health. Regular apple consumption can help stimulate fat metabolism and contribute to overall well-being.For those who value quality and sustainability, the farm shops around Lake Constance are the perfect place to visit. Deeply rooted in the region, local growers pursue their vocation with passion, and you can taste the difference. 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 Passion for Apples
Apples are both healthy and refreshing.
Autumn of Delights at Lake Constance
Where Apples Blush with Delight
As summer gradually draws to a close, Lake Constance reveals its most fruitful side during the autumn harvest season. Amid colorful vineyards and traditional orchard meadows, gentle morning mist and golden light, relaxation and enjoyment take center stage, along with the region’s star attraction: apples. Freshly picked, richly aromatic and available in an impressive variety, they are the essence of autumn at the lake.Whether exploring picturesque orchards, browsing local farm shops or attending seasonal events, visitors can discover the full spectrum of apple flavors. From mid-September to early November, harvest time becomes a feast for the senses, offering unforgettable moments of autumnal indulgence and showcasing the region at its most delicious.A Variety of Delights for Apple Lovers
Tip
Harvest season is the perfect time to discover the region’s many charming farm cafés. While exploring the Lake Constance countryside, be sure to pause for a delicious local treat. As an added bonus, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the orchard meadows and the lake itself.
FAQ: Apple Growing at Lake Constance
Plan Your Apple Experience at Lake Constance with These Tips
