A holiday with a difference: cycling in Munster, Germany

Few people know of or have even heard of Munster in North Germany but this University city is actually the cycling capital of Germany and is packed to the rafters with culture and history. Despite there being more cyclists here than anywhere else in Germany you don't need to be fit as a fiddle to make the most of its flat, cycle-friendly terrain. I don't even own a bike at home but I still found peddling along with my group a sedate and incredibly relaxing experience.

As well as cycle lanes in abundance there are many sights to take in in Munster. Join a bike tour and take in the baroque architecture of the old town, much of which was rebuilt in its original style after 92% of the city was bombed during the war. You can also stroll through the many cathedrals in the city centre famed for the story of the three Anabaptists who tried to take over the city only to be captured and hung in cages from the clock tower - the cages still hang there today. After all that history, enjoy a leisurely lunch while watching the thoroughly modern sailing boats on the harbour.

Then get back on your bike to visit the Graphik Museum Pablo Picasso which is the only Picasso museum in Germany and definitely worth a look whether you're a fan of the artist or not. The museum is currently celebrating its 10 year anniversary and the idyllic courtyard area in front has been redesigned with coloured tiles to look like a portrait of Picasso from a distance which can be admired while sipping on a coffee from one of the many chic cafes surrounding it.

The hotel

The huge array of culture that Munster has to offer attracts many arty types to the city which has resulted in a wide variety of hotels available to suit all tastes and desires. We stayed at the Factory hotel which used to serve as a brewery and still retains many of its original features and structure.

Exposed concrete walls in both the exterior and interior are juxtaposed with vivid stained glass windows and modern luxurious touches in each of the rooms. Despite the expanses of dramatic looking grey concrete, the hotel has still been careful to provide everything needed for a relaxing and incredibly comfortable stay, from huge fatboy beanbags in reception and rooms (great for nodding off in) to an expansive chic bar serving cocktails and dining area to enjoy breakfast in. 

All of the staff are incredibly attentive and from hiring bikes to ensuring your room is adequate they will go that extra mile that turns a city break from being good to great. If you can bear to drag yourself away from the hotel, the square outside also offers a great selection of restaurants and bar serving traditional German sausage and beer making for a great evening a stone's throw from your bedroom.

What to take

A camera to snap all of the great architecture and scenery in Munster. The clock tower is especially worth visiting with camera in hand and, if you time it right, you'll hear the watchman blowing his horn at the very top of the tower every 30 minutes between 9pm and midnight.

People tend to dress down during the day and evening due to everyone mainly being on bikes or foot so take plenty of comfortable clothing and a waterproof jacket just in case.

Getting there

Flying to Munster is quick and easy, making it a great destination for a long weekend or whistlestop tour.

Fly with Air Berlin the second largest German airline to Münster. Prices from London Stansted to Münster start from £48 return.

Experience one of Germany's vibrant cities and book now with Air Berlin at www.airberlin.com or by calling the 24 hours service centre 0871 500 0737 or via travel agents.