Campingplatz am Zwenzower Ufer

If thoughts of Germany conjure up images of looming castles, stays round here won’t disappoint. Starting in the town of Neustrelitz 15 minutes’ drive away, explore the grounds of Schlossgarten Neustrelitz – though technically Schloss-less, visits to the garden’s orangery and temple should fulfil architectural cravings. Also within 15 minutes is Schloss Mirow, an early 18th-century island castle with a spectacular ballroom, pretty gardens and suitably royal connections – it was the birthplace of the Queen consort Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, wife to Britain's King George III. A little further afield is Schloss Hohenzieritz (25 minutes), famed as the deathplace of Queen Louise of Prussia, and for its fab landscaped gardens. When lakeside adventures are preferable, there are plenty of options hereabouts. At Schlossgarten Neustrelitz, wander to the edge of Zierker lake to embark on the 12-kilometre walk around its edge, or head instead to Müritz lake – the largest body of water fully within Germany – for boat rental, fishing and hikes. Try something a little different with a trip to Glasmanufaktur Dalmsdorf half an hour away, for glassworks courses and workshops, or embrace that inner budding zoologist with a day at the Neustrelitz zoo, 15 minutes from base.