Family-themed ideas for Germany

In addition to having the bragging rights over hosting this year's football World Cup, Germany has a host of attractions for the whole family in the shape of theme parks.

Theme parks are an ideal way to entertain the children for a day, while attractions such as automotive museums for the likes of Mercedes can keep the motor-minded dad in the family engaged for the day.

At Heide-Park in Soltau, kids and parents can enjoy the thrills of the world's largest wooden rollercoaster, the Colossos.

Hitting speeds of 75 miles per hour and plunging down stomach-wrenching drops, the Colossos is not for the faint of heart.

However, there is a more tranquil side to Heide-Park, which is set in the lush greenery of Luneburg Heath. A more placid time can be had on the leisurely raft ride or the Fairy Story ride, while the Grotto Blitz is on hand for adrenalin-junkies.

As is a growing trend for big theme parks, families can stay onsite in the specially-built Caribbean huts of the Holiday-Camp.

Thrills and spills are also well-stocked at Phantasialand near Cologne. In addition to the park's old favourites such as the Runaway Train-esque Colorado Adventure and bungee-tastic Mystery Castle, in April 2006 there will be a new zone to enjoy.

Deep In Africa recreates much of the magic of the country with authentic artefacts and plantlife, and boasts the park's newest thriller, Black Mamba.

The exhilarating, inverted rollercoaster will race through zero-G bends, navigating canyons and crevices.

If it is a more sedate outing the holidayer is looking for, Mercedes is opening a themed museum in May.

Housing the history and stories of the world famous automotive brand, Mercedes Benz World in Stuttgart explains the technology behind the car, old and new.

It also houses some original cars, such as the Type 770 Mercedes used by the Kaiser Wilhelm II and Princess Diana’s red SL.

And if your appetite for motors is whet enough during your visit, you can even pick up a new Mercedes.

For more information on the above attractions visit www.heide.park.de, www.phantasialand.de and www.mercedes-benz.com XXX