Outdoor Recreation

Baumholder

Baumholder Outdoor Recreation, Smith Barracks, Bldg. 816, 485-7182 or 06783-6-7182

Black Forest Snowboard & Ski Express

Jan. 11

Cost: $65 per person,
$45 per child under 12 years

7 ski-areas. 31 lifts. 55 kilometers of ski-slopes. The highest mountain in Baden-Württemberg rises to 1.493m above sea-level. The Feldberg is not only the cradle of German skiing, it also occupies the first place in Black Forest ski-sports with its international competitions and as the coaching center of the German Ski Association. A closely linked network of 31 ski-lifts, which can all be used with just one ticket, offer the winter-sports lover an extraordinary variety of descents. The lifts are in use for 100 days a year on average, proof that a sufficient amount of snow can be guaranteed. In addition, the artificial snow-making facilities ensure an adequate covering of snow. In all 6 km of slopes can be covered with artificial snow. Lovers of cross-country skiing can choose from a closely linked network of a total of 60 km with all levels of difficulty. The Feldberg Snowpark! The Funpark is situated at Seebuck with a total length of just under 900m. It is equipped with materials for snow such as kickers, scooters, and hips as well as a first-class selection of rails and boxes, which means that the complex is attractive for families and beginners, although advanced riders and professionals will also obtain their money’s worth.

Kaiserslautern

Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation, Pulaski Barracks, Bldg. 2905, 493-4117 or 0631-3406-4117. Mon. to Fri. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on federal holidays. https://kaiserslautern.armymwr.com

Croatia – All-Inclusive Beach Weekend

May 21-25

Thursday: Kaiserslautern to Croatia You will know you have arrived at a beachfront paradise when you check into your four-star hotel, just steps away from both paved and sandy beaches.  All your meals are included at the hotel with your all-inclusive package and the only thing you will need to worry about is how to spend your free time in Croatia! Fortunately for you, the Sol Aurora Hotel offers information about the countless activities which make up the Istrian experience.

Friday: Pula Spending the day Pula will give you the chance to see ancient Roman buildings, including the Temple of Augustus, the Gate of Hercules and Pula Arena, one of the world’s best-preserved Roman amphitheaters. The lively fish market and Aquarium Pula highlight Croatia’s connection to the sea. Returning to the hotel in the afternoon will give you time to enjoy the beach, play in the water, visit the city of Umag, or use the four-star facilities in the hotel.

Saturday/Sunday: Free Days How will you spend your free time in Croatia? Umag has 9 beaches including some of the best beaches in Istria, one of which is Aurora beach which is just a few steps from your hotel. Your all-inclusive hotel offers free bicycle rentals allowing you to reach the city of Umag in just 15 pedal-powered minutes or a 45-minute walk along the coast.  In the area around the hotel, you will find tennis, mini-golf, bowling, and riding, while the areas watersports centers offer diving, sailing, parasailing, banana boats, pedal boats, sailing, motorboat rentals and more. You will only be bored in Croatia if you choose to be.

Monday: Return to Kaiserslautern Your return flight doesn’t take off until tonight, so you will still be able to use your day to enjoy the Istrian beaches and coastline.  With a short flight connecting Croatia and Germany, you will have more time on the ground in Croatia and less time in transit.

Ramstein

Ramstein Outdoor Recreation, KMC Center, Bldg. 3336, 480-5705 or 06371-47-5705. Mon. to Fri. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sat., Sun., holidays and training days 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. https://www.86fss.com/sports-and-recreation/outdoor-recreation

Dahn rock hike

Dec. 29

Towering red sandstone walls surround the village of Dahn south of us in the Palatinate Forest. Lace-up your hiking boots and stretch out your legs in the fresh air of the Pfalz with Ramstein Outdoor Recreation. An ~12 km loop leads us to some of the highlights of the region including sandstone spires, arches, and sheer walls framed with dense coniferous forest. A restaurant is nicely positioned along the route for a refueling stop (and a Hefe-Weizen?) to boost your energy for the terrein ahead. Dress for the forecast and bring snacks and water to suit your needs as well as cash Euro for the restaurant along route.