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Can people with walking difficulties (wheelchair-users) go all the way around Mainau?

Yes, all paths suitable for wheelchair-users or people with walking difficulties are clearly marked on our map of the island. The restaurants are well accessible and have disabled toilets.

Are bicycles and in-line skates allowed on the island?

No.

When is Mainau open to visitors?

The island is open daily during the flower season from sunrise until sunset.  The sunset ticket is available 1/2 price on all admission charges from 5pm.

What conditions apply to taking photographs on Mainau?

• Photography is permitted on Mainau Island
• Admission is free for holders of a press ID cards.
• No motive fee for photographs taken for private purposes   
• No motive fee for photographs taken for an editorial article about Mainau Island. Please send us specimen copies.
• A motive fee must be paid to Mainau GmbH for photographs used for commercial purposes (calendars, postcards, catalogues etc.) The charge is calculated according to the extent and type of use. Mainau GmbH’s press officer must be informed about the production and eventual use.
  
  

Is it possible to stay on Mainau?

No, there is no overnight accommodation on the island .Ring +49 (0) 7531-90940 or visit the IBT’s website www.bodensee-tourismus.com for information on accommodation near Mainau and around Lake Constance.

Is there any entertainment for children on Mainau?

There’s a wonderful children’s playground on the island with slides, swings, a climbing parcours, sandpits with diggers, water areas, lorries with trailers, tricycles and lots more .The dwarf village and animal floral figures are right next to the playground. There’s a petting zoo and pony rides at the farmyard.

Are dogs allowed onto the island?

Yes, so long as they are kept on a lead.

How old is the park?

The Hungarian Prince Esterházy ordered the construction of today’s castle courtyard back in 1827 and planted valuable exotic plants and indigenous ones. Grand Duke Freidrich I of Baden bought Mainau Island to use as a summer residence in 1853. He extended the collection of trees creating the arboretum and laid out the Italian Rose Garden.  He also introduced lemon and orange trees and palm trees to Mainau Island.

Is swimming allowed on the island?

No, the nearest bathing beach is in Litzelstetten, to the north of Mainau Island.

Was Mainau originally an island?

Yes, the first bridge was built in 1853, the second bridge in 1977.

How far back can the verifiable history of Mainau Island be traced?

There are records of a settlement of six houses on Mainau’s southern shore dating back to around 3,000 BC. Romans possessed the land all around Lake Constance, including Mainau, in 15 BC. There was a fortress, shipyard and General Tiberius’s fleet was based at the island at the time.

Is it possible to moor a motorboat or yacht at the island?

Yes, from 7pm at either jetties 2/3 or 4/5.

Are plants sold on the island?

Yes, at the kiosks: various cacti, orchids, bedding plants, perennials, small palms and citrus trees, flower bulbs, tubers and seeds (depending on the time of year).

How do we know if the Bernadotte family is present?

The count’s flag is raised on the castle’s roof.

Who do I contact if I want to marry on Mainau or hold a group event or conference?

The Banqueting office; Tel. +49 (0) 7531-303-156

Are there any botanical workshops or similar things on Mainau?

Yes, there are workshops on various types of plants. Experts give tips on tending the specific types (e.g. roses, orchids, tub plants). The current workshop programme can be viewed under the menu bar Calendar of Events.

Is admission to Mainau free with a ‘Bodensee-Erlebniskarte’?

The Bodensee-Erlebniskarte “Sparfüchse’ entitles you to a 30% discount on the admission price for adults or children.