Skip to content

Angela Merkel trades power suits for gardening and quiet walks

From global leadership to tending crops and late-night fried potatoes—Merkel's post-political life is a study in reinvention. Discover how she swapped high-stakes decisions for soil and solitude.

The image shows a pair of gloves sitting on top of a dirt ground, surrounded by small plants, dried...
The image shows a pair of gloves sitting on top of a dirt ground, surrounded by small plants, dried leaves, and twigs.

Angela Merkel trades power suits for gardening and quiet walks

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel has embraced a quieter life since leaving office. Known for her sharp political instincts, she now spends her days gardening and enjoying simple routines. Her approach to stress relief and personal style has also shifted away from the public eye.

Merkel’s time as chancellor was marked by her signature power suits, though they were not her personal choice. A stylist had recommended the outfits, which became iconic during her tenure. Now, some of these suits have been discarded, while a few remain as reminders of her political years.

Since stepping down, she has turned to gardening as a way to unwind. Her focus lies on hardy crops that need little maintenance, though her attempts at growing potatoes have had mixed success. The quality of the soil, she found, plays a key role in the harvest. Beyond gardening, Merkel manages stress through regular vacations and solitary walks in nature. Another simple pleasure she enjoys is late-night fried potatoes, a habit that contrasts sharply with her high-pressure past.

Merkel’s post-political life centres on simplicity and reflection. Gardening, nature retreats, and small comforts now fill her days. The shift from global leadership to quiet routines marks a new chapter for the former chancellor.

Read also:

Latest