Mecklenburg-Schwerin

Enchanted by Originality

Between the Baltic Sea, the Elbe and Lake Plauer See stretches a stretch of land whose natural diversity awakens the senses in its relaxing way, inspires the soul and is able to give the body new strength. Surprisingly close to the metropolises of Berlin and Hamburg and far away from the hustle and bustle, relaxation is waiting right outside the door.

A couple with bicycles stand on a jetty on Lake Schwerin and look at Schwerin Castle in the evening light.

A stretch of land between the Baltic Sea, Elbe and Lake Plau, surprisingly close to Hamburg and Berlin and yet so pleasantly far away from everyday life.Glide along quiet waterways Kanus there.Ospreys can be spotted on the lakes, and hikes lead through nature reserves. Between enchanted gardens and gnarled trees, there is space to breathe deeply, and castles, palaces and manor houses tell of the splendor of times gone by. From to Ludwigslust – their stories come to life and invite you to dream and linger. Charming small towns and villages are waiting to be discovered, as are regional markets, courtyards and studios. Between half-timbered houses and brickwork, there is an opportunity for a relaxed chat on every corner. Here you can find your very own personal taste of English.

The vacation experts for Mecklenburg Schwerin

Travel between castles and lakes

Schwerin

Schwerin Castle sits majestically on the lake, surrounded by idyllic gardens. The historic old town enchants visitors with its lovingly preserved half-timbered houses, museums and important cultural monuments. In summer, the castle festival transforms the town into a stage full of impressive open-air performances.

Ludwigslust

Ludwigslust, the „Versailles of the North“, impresses with its baroque splendor. The palace and park are perfect for a stroll. Cultural highlights include the small festival in the large park and the baroque Advent market.

Wittenburg

The medieval ramparts bear witness to Wittenburg's importance as a trading town. The MehlWelten Museum shows flour from a new perspective. The Alpincenter Hamburg-Wittenburg offers action-packed fun in the snow with a year-round snow slope at -1°C.

Plau am See

The climatic health resort combines a historic old town with a water experience. The listed Hubbrücke and the castle tower dominate the townscape. Cafés along the promenade invite you to linger, while Lake Plau, nature trails and forests promise active recreation.

The monastery town of Rehna

The monastery town is a place to take a deep breath. The monastery garden and the Mühlenteich pond offer quiet retreats. Art exhibitions and concerts provide cultural inspiration. Pilgrimage routes lead through unspoiled nature for extensive hiking tours.

Zarrentin am Schaalsee

Zarrentin lies on the deepest lake in northern Germany and is the gateway to the Schaalsee UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The monastery complex, half-timbered houses and natural shores characterize the townscape. The Schaalsee invites you to swim, paddle and observe nature. Hiking and cycling trails lead through unspoiled forests, moors and meadows.

Sternberg lake landscape

Numerous lakes, moors and woodlands characterize the natural paradise in the heart of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Perfect for canoe tours, hikes and swimming days. The Groäological open-air museum in Raden offers exciting insights into the life of the Slavs.

 

Castles and manor houses

in Mecklenburg-Schwerin

  1. Welcome to Woserin Manor House, © Gutshaus Woserin / Sabine Puschmann

    Gutshaus Woserin - Art on the lake

    Read more: "Gutshaus Woserin - Art on the lake"
  2. © Sönke Gill

    Schönhof Manor House

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  3. © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Landscape Park and Castle Raben Steinfeld

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  4. © vollvincent

    Kaeselow Castle

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  5. Arrival at our estate, © Gut Settin am See

    Country and vacation homes at the Settin estate on the lake

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  6. Exterior view of Wiligrad Castle from bird's eye view, © SSGK MV / Funkhaus Creative

    Wiligrad Castle

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  7. Schwartow hunting lodge

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  8. © SSGK MV / Timm Allrich

    Schwerin Palace

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  9. Goldenbow Manor

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  10. Ludwigslust Castle with reflection in the pond "Karauschen", © SSGK MV / Jörn Lehmann

    Ludwigslust Castle

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  11. © Fotostudio Kruse Neustadt-Glewe

    Neustadt-Glewe Castle

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  12. Vorbeck Manor, © Gut Vorbeck / Stefan von Stengel

    Vorbeck Manor

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  13. Experience the view of the park and the Schlosshotel Wendorf for yourself and in person, © Grand Hotel Schloss Wendorf

    Amber Castle & Amber Land Wendorf

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  14. © TMV/Gohlke

    Hotel Neustadt-Glewe Castle

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  15. Good Zahren

    Read more: "Good Zahren"
  16. The courtyard of Gadebusch Castle during an event., © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin e.V.

    Renaissance castle Gadebusch

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  17. Hotel Schloss Basthorst

    Read more: "Hotel Schloss Basthorst"
  18. © TV Mecklenburg-Schwerin e.V.

    Dobbertin Abbey and church

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  19. Dreilützow Castle

    Read more: "Dreilützow Castle"
  20. Schwechower Obstbrennerei (fruit distillery)

    Read more: "Schwechower Obstbrennerei (fruit distillery)"
  21. © Archiv, Biosphärenreservatsamt Schaalsee-Elbe

    Gutshaus Volzrade - vacation in a historical ambience

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  22. Manor house Zarchlin

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  23. Kaarz Castle and Park with plenty of open space, © Schloss Kaarz / Stefan von Stengel

    Kaarz castle with park

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  24. Exterior view of Settin manor house, © Resort Gut Settin

    Manor house Settin am See

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Activities

Out and about by bike, on foot or on the water

Bike tours

&p>The diverse network of cycle paths is a relaxed way to explore Mecklenburg-Schwerin. The  combines magnificent castles with culinary stops in Schwerin and the Sternberg Lake District. In addition, the Blue Eight around Lake Schwerin, the VeloLust in Ludwigslust, the DiscoveryRoutes and the Elbe Cycle Path with tales of Enni, the water droplet,

.

Hiking trails 

Mecklenburg-Schwerin offers a variety of hiking trails through forests, lake landscapes and protected natural areas. A highlight for families are the Pilzy‘s nature experience trails in Hagenow, Brüel and Goldberg, which make it possible to experience nature in a playful way. In addition, guided tours through the Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve and the Star Park  to special nature experiences.

Lakes & rivers

The extensive water network with its countless lakes makes Mecklenburg-Schwerin a paradise for activities on and around the water. A Houseboat vacation on the Müritz-Elde-Wasserstraße is the most relaxed way to experience the region from the water. Those who like it more active will find happiness sailing, surfing and diving on Lake Plau, SUP on Lake Schwerin or on a canoe tour on the Warnow.

Culinary & Art

Mecklenburg-Schwerin is a place for connoisseurs and creatives. Lovely finds are created in manufactories and studios, while courtyards and regional markets offer culinary delights. A mixture of enjoyment and inspiration unfolds between rivers and lakes. Our tip: Für  at Pentecost ömany artists open their doors and allow guests to immerse themselves in their creative world.

169 results

  • © Gabriele Skorupski

    Beekeeping center Bantin

    • Wittenburger Straße, 19246 Bantin

    Interesting insights into the life of bees are offered by the educational and show garden of the Bantin Beekeeping Center, located between Wittenburg and Zarrentin.

    Read more: "Beekeeping center Bantin"
  • © TV Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Zarrentin Monastery

    • Kirchplatz, 19246 Zarrentin

    The former Cistercian nunnery "Himmelspforte" is located on the southern shore of the Schaalsee. The monastery complex, which is well worth seeing, can be visited. There is an exhibition on the history, as well as guided tours and audio guides.

    Read more: "Zarrentin Monastery"
  • © Brocki´s Hotel Stadt Hamburg

    Brocki's Hotel City of Hamburg

    • Lange Straße, 19370 Parchim

    Welcome to our family-run hotel in the center of the romantic district town of Parchim! Located directly at the Eldeschleuse, the traditional hotel offers cozy accommodation for 30 guests in modern and comfortable rooms. Ask about our various arrangements, there is a lot to discover in Parchim...

    Read more: "Brocki's Hotel City of Hamburg"
  • © TMV/Gohlke

    Old town hall in Parchim

    • Schuhmarkt, 19370 Parchim

    The impressive Parchim town hall with a unique town hall cellar dates back to the 14th century with its core substance.

    Read more: "Old town hall in Parchim"
  • © M.Höppner

    Plau am See post office

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • 19395 Plau

    Old post office

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  • Arsenal

    • Alexandrinenstraße, 19055 Schwerin

    The Grand Ducal Arsenal on the south-western bank of the Pfaffenteich in Schwerin, built between 1840 and 1844, is an impressive example of Tudor Gothic architecture. Today it serves as the seat of the state's Ministry of the Interior and combines historical architecture with a central location on the waterfront.

    Read more: "Arsenal"
  • Good Zahren

    • Dorfstraße, 19386 Zahren

    Space for ideas - that is the motto of the spacious estate with French flair. There are vacation apartments, lounges, seminar rooms and an estate kitchen.

    Read more: "Good Zahren"
  • © Jonas Kurverwaltung

    Playground Burghof Plau am See

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • Burgplatz, 19395 Plau am See

    The Burghof Plau am See playground is located in the historic old town. The facility has swings, a climbing tower, slide, suspension bridge, swing and wine press scaffolding,

    Read more: "Playground Burghof Plau am See"
  • From the observation tower you can look far over the Elbe landscape., © Gabriele Skorupski

    Observation tower "Elwkieker" Boizenburg

    • Temporarily closed
    • Am Elbberg, 19258 Boizenburg/ OT Vier

    NOTE: Due to the danger of landslides in the area of the Elbe slope, the Elwkieker observation tower and its apron are currently closed!

    Read more: "Observation tower "Elwkieker" Boizenburg"
  • Rocks of various sizes are found in the Warnow breakthrough valley, © TMV

    Erratic blocks in the Warnow breakthrough valley near Groß Görnow

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • 19406 Groß Görnow

    The glacial nature reserve Durchbruchstal der Warnow und Mildenitz impresses with its varied and unspoiled beauty. This also includes erratic blocks and smaller bedloads.

    Read more: "Erratic blocks in the Warnow breakthrough valley near Groß Görnow"
  • Restaurant and boarding house "Zum Eichenkrug

    • Hauptstraße, 19374 Domsühl

    Our restaurant captivates with its rural ambience and its "good home cooking". In the pension with its cozy interior, the guest can relax and feel comfortable.

    Read more: "Restaurant and boarding house "Zum Eichenkrug"
  • Open-air museum Schwerin-Mueß

    • Closed today
    • Alte Crivitzer Landstraße, 19063 Schwerin

    Immerse yourself in a bygone world - the world of the Mueß villagers. Here - in this place - farmers, shepherds, cottagers and craftsmen once lived with their families. Several generations under one roof together with the animals.

    Read more: "Open-air museum Schwerin-Mueß"
  • © Welterbeverein Schwerin

    Schwerin State Archives

    • Graf-Schack-Allee, 19053 Schwerin

    The Schwerin State Archives on the Burgsee, built in the early 20th century, preserve the unique collection of documents and files of the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. With an impressive mixture of historical style and modern construction technology, it is one of the most important Grand Ducal buildings in Schwerin and has been preserved almost unchanged.

    Read more: "Schwerin State Archives"
  • Garwitz lock gate

    • 19372 Matzlow-Garwitz

    The historic upper gate of the lock in Garwitz bears witness to the technical architecture of bygone times.

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  • Escape from everyday life on the farm Silberweide, © Hof Silberweide/ Alrun Romanus

    Silver Willow Farm

    • Ziegeleiweg, 19399 Wendisch Waren

    Away from the roads lies in solitude Hof Silberweide. For a fulfilling vacation, inexpensive packages are offered for the whole family, combined with horseback riding, canoe tours or sailing trips on Lake Plauer.

    Read more: "Silver Willow Farm"
  • © Tourist-Info der Stadt Sternberg / M. Bouvier

    City wall with mill gate Sternberg

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • Mühlenstraße, 19406 Sternberg

    The city wall with the mill gate in Sternberg enclosed the old town of Sternberg in the Middle Ages.

    Read more: "City wall with mill gate Sternberg"
  • State Museum Schwerin

    • Open today
    • Alter Garten, 19055 Schwerin

    In a prominent location on Schwerin Lake, visitors will find a top collection of Dutch paintings, as well as paintings from the 16th to the 21st century and works of handicrafts and graphic art.

    Read more: "State Museum Schwerin"
  • © Mercure Hotel Schwerin Altstadt

    BOULEVARD Hotel Old Town Schwerin

    • Klosterstraße, 19053 Schwerin

    The BOULEVARD Hotel Schwerin Altstadt is located in a central yet quiet city center location. In just a few minutes walk you can reach the Schwerin Castle, theaters and museums, state parliament, cathedral, as well as the business and shopping centers.

    Read more: "BOULEVARD Hotel Old Town Schwerin"
  • © TMV/Tiemann

    Wangelin garden

    • Nachtkoppelweg, 19395 Wangelin

    Observe - grasp - marvel - enjoy in the largest medicinal herb garden in Mecklenburg. In addition to medicinal herbs, you will also find aromatic, magical and dyeing plants, as well as a butterfly garden and a typical North German farm garden. The garden's harvest can be tasted in the garden café and children can let off steam in the playscape.

    Read more: "Wangelin garden"
  • © Axel Schott

    Parchim City Museum

    • Fischerdamm, 19370 Parchim

    The Parchim City Museum presents impressive collections on the city's history. You can also discover the diversity of historical crafts in the museum courtyard and vaulted cellar.

    Read more: "Parchim City Museum"
  • © Andrea Hauser

    Our little Burderei

    • Gartenstraße, 19075 Mühlenbeck

    "Unsere kleine Burderei" is a privately run farm that is home to numerous animals (donkeys, goats, dogs and chickens, many of them from animal welfare organisations). The offer includes various projects as well as donkey and goat walks for individuals, small groups and families.

    Read more: "Our little Burderei"
  • © Hotel Stadtkrug

    Hotel Stadtkrug

    • Apothekenstraße, 19370 Parchim

    Directly in the center of the historic old town is our family-run hotel since 1939.

    Read more: "Hotel Stadtkrug"
  • © Welterbeverein Schwerin

    Grand ducal linen and bed chamber

    • Großer Moor, 19055 Schwerin

    On behalf of the Grand Duke, architect Hermann Willebrand created the designs for a linen room. In 1878, after the demolition of the previous building, this was supplemented by the construction of a "bed chamber". Willebrand unified both components with a uniform design and a simple classical plaster façade.

    Read more: "Grand ducal linen and bed chamber"
  • Vacation resort Zum See

    • Quetziner Straße, 19395 Plau am See

    Our vacation resort "Zum See" is located directly on the northern shore of Lake Plau in the beautiful and quiet district of Heidenholz. Embedded in meadows, surrounded by almost untouched nature, you will find an idyllic place to relax and unwind.

    Read more: "Vacation resort Zum See"
  • © Gasthof & Pension "Zum Fäßchen" / Wilken

    Gasthof & Pension "Zum Fäßchen

    • Consrader Strasse, 19086 Plate Ortsteil Consrade

    Our guesthouse and pension is surrounded by lakes and forests in the middle of the beautiful Lewitz. Here you can enjoy the countryside and are still not far from the State capital Schwerin, where many excursion opportunities await you. Especially popular are our bicycle, hiking and boat tours.

    Read more: "Gasthof & Pension "Zum Fäßchen"
  • © TV Mecklenburg-Schwerin e.V.

    Mecklenburg Forest Glass Museum

    • Hauptstraße, 19067 Langen-Brütz

    Who knows that glass is made of sand? A small museum in Langen Brütz deals with the subject of glass and its production.

    Read more: "Mecklenburg Forest Glass Museum"
  • © Thorsten Falk, Seehotel Plau am See

    Seehotel Plau am See

    • Hermann-Niemann-Str., 19395 Plau am See

    Make friends out of guests - Leave everyday life behind and immerse yourself in the hospitable atmosphere of our beautifully situated lakeside hotel. The idyllic 4-star hotel, located directly on Lake Plauer See, awaits you in its family atmosphere. Discover the wonderful area around Lake Plauer See.

    Read more: "Seehotel Plau am See"
  • © Trend Hotel Banzkow

    Trend HOTEL

    • Plater Straße, 19079 Banzkow

    The Trend Hotel is located on the edge of a tranquil village in the middle of a landscape rich in forests and lakes. Schwerin, one of the most beautiful cities in northern Germany, can be reached in a few minutes by car. The surrounding area offers many activities and nature experiences for you.

    Read more: "Trend HOTEL"
  • © M.Höppner

    Parish Church of St. Mary Plau am See

    • Kirchplatz, 19395 Plau am See

    The parish church St. Marien Plau am See was built in the 12th century as a three-nave and three-bay hall church.

    Read more: "Parish Church of St. Mary Plau am See"
  • The courtyard of Gadebusch Castle during an event., © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin e.V.

    Renaissance castle Gadebusch

    • Johann-Stelling-Straße, 19205 Gadebusch

    The Renaissance castle from 1573 is especially known for the detailed terracotta decorations on the facade. Currently, the 16th century building is undergoing extensive renovation. The castle can be visited on guided tours during events such as the Open Monument Day.

    Read more: "Renaissance castle Gadebusch"

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Discover Mecklenburg-Schwerin

Inspiration to read more in the vacation magazine

  1. Schwerin: UNESCO World Heritage Site

    Read more: "Schwerin: UNESCO World Heritage Site"
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    5

    Country holiday tips for the fall

    Read more: "Country holiday tips for the fall"
  3. The Nature Park Trail

    Read more: "The Nature Park Trail"
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    Tiny Houses in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

    Read more: "Tiny Houses in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern"
  5. Wiligrad Castle: A park awakens from its slumber

    Read more: "Wiligrad Castle: A park awakens from its slumber"
  6. From castle to castle with pleasure

    Read more: "From castle to castle with pleasure"
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    Seven unique filming locations in MV

    Read more: "Seven unique filming locations in MV"
  8. Culture in Schwerin: Mecklenburg State Theater

    Read more: "Culture in Schwerin: Mecklenburg State Theater"
  9. Guided tour of Schwerin Castle

    Read more: "Guided tour of Schwerin Castle"
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    Excursion destinations in fall with children

    Read more: "Excursion destinations in fall with children"
  11. River of fun

    Read more: "River of fun"
  12. The adventure gardens in Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Read more: "The adventure gardens in Mecklenburg-Schwerin"
  13. Picnic in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

    Read more: "Picnic in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern"
  14. Puppet theater at Schwerin Castle: a family trip into the past

    Read more: "Puppet theater at Schwerin Castle: a family trip into the past"
  15. Organized cycle tours between the Baltic Sea and lakes

    Read more: "Organized cycle tours between the Baltic Sea and lakes"
  16. Outdoor adventures in spring

    Read more: "Outdoor adventures in spring"
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    5

    Special animal tours in the nature experience centers

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Perfectly prepared for your vacation in Mecklenburg-Schwerin

Where is Mecklenburg-Schwerin located?

In the west of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern – between the Elbe, Schaalsee, Plauer See and Schweriner See. The region includes the state capital Schwerin as well as the districts of Ludwigslust-Parchim and parts of Northwest Mecklenburg.

What makes Mecklenburg-Schwerin special as a travel destination?

The diversity: magnificent canyons, tranquil lakes, dense forests and quaint villages are all close together here. Ideal for anyone who enjoys culture and nature and is looking for peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle.

Is the Schwerin Residence Ensemble a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Yes! Since July 2024, the residential ensemble with the palace, cathedral and neoclassical villas has officially been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Which castles and historical sites are worth seeing?

In addition to Schwerin Palace, Ludwigslust Palace, the „Versailles of the North“, is well worth a visit. The monasteries in Rehna and Zarrentin, the medieval castle in Neustadt-Glewe and the Slavic village in Groß Raden near Sternberg are also worth a detour.

Which parks and gardens should you have seen?

The palace gardens in Schwerin, Ludwigslust, Wiligrad and Kaarz impress with their stately splendor. If you prefer something a little more rural, the monastery garden in Rehna, the Pingelhof Alt Damerow in the Lewitz region or the ecological Wangeliner Garten near Plau am See are perfect for you.

How many lakes are there in the region?

Many! From Lake Schaalsee to Lake Schwerin and Lake Plau, countless bathing spots, canoe routes and lakeside paths invite you to relax. Many places can also be discovered by boat via waterways such as the Müritz-Elde-Wasserstraße, the Störkanal or the Warnow - a paradise for nature lovers.

Is the region suitable for cycling?

In any case! Tours such as the Schloss & Genuss-Erlebnisradtour combine imposing castles and manor houses with courtyards, cafés and manufactories. Interactive augmented reality stations make the experiences along the way even more tangible – an exciting mix of culture, culinary delights and technology.

Which excursions are suitable for families with children?

Whether it's the Bärenwald forest, Alpine center, swimming lakes or museums, Mecklenburg-Schwerin offers many destinations for families. One highlight is the interactive nature trails in Hagenow, Brüel and Goldberg – where „Pilzy“, a talking mushroom, accompanies children and parents through nature in a playful way, with rock climbing, art and hands-on stations.

What can you experience in Schwerin apart from the castles?

Discover the charming old town with its historic half-timbered houses, the diverse cultural offerings, listen to the bells in the cathedral or relax on Zippendorf beach – city & nature hand in hand.

How do you get to Mecklenburg-Schwerin?

Located between Hamburg and Berlin, Mecklenburg-Schwerin is easily accessible via the A24. There are ICE train stops in Schwerin and Ludwigslust, and other towns are well connected by regional train. Within the region, buses and the on-call bus service also connect smaller towns – ideal for anyone who wants to travel flexibly and sustainably.