Spreewald
Spreewald, which means ‘Spree Woods’ in German, is an incredibly picturesque part of Germany. Designated as a biosphere reserve in 1991 by UNESCO, Spreewald is also well known for its brilliant traditional irrigation system, which consists of more than 200 small canals running through the region, making it a unique lacework of channels hemmed in by Alder and pine forests.
Also, the unique wetlands on dry sandy areas are other distinguishing features of the region. Fields and grasslands can also be found here.
Location
Spreewald is located at a distance of about 100 km southeast of Berlin, in the German state of Brandenburg.
Weather
The climate in Spreewald can be classified as warm and temperate, owing to which there is a great deal of rainfall in the region even in the driest months. The average temperature here is approximately 9.3 °C accompanied by an average rainfall of about 555 mm.
February is the driest month here, with minimal rainfall of 32 mm. July, on the other hand, is the wettest month with an average precipitation of 66 mm.
The warmest month in Spreewald is July, with 18.9 °C as the highest average temperature. However, the month of January experiences temperatures as low as -0.8 °C.
History
Three types of landscape, namely- Dahme-Seengebiet, Spreewald and Niederer Fläming, are the major characterizing features of the Dahme-Spreewald district.
While many might believe that the beautiful landscape of Spreewald is a result of human intervention, in reality, it was naturally shaped during the ice-age. A large part of the district is mainly under the young moraine area and is divided into various shapes and glacial series.
Since time immemorial, the Spreewald region has always centered on Sorbian culture. All throughout the 19th century, the region maintained itself as an agricultural land, with scanty urbanization taking place on the northern side, i.e. near Berlin.
In today’s date, the district area mainly comprises the parts of the Baruther and Berlin glacial valleys. On the ground, the landscape is extensively formed by the pinewoods.
The scenic factors of Spreewald have not only stolen hearts but have also strongly influenced the development of the settlement pattern in the region. After the conquest of the Ascanians and the substantial forest clearance that followed, the previously predominant Sorbian settlement area has changed in today’s district. The extensive colonization of the rural areas, mainly of the German settlers in the 12th and 13th century led to the total transformation of the old-Slavic/Sorbian settlements and paved way for the formation of new towns.
Luckau, a Sorbian village nearby was founded in place of an old Slavic hill fort under the protection of the Margravial castle in the year 1250. Since the geographical location of the village proved to be favorable for the development of economy and commerce, Luckau was developed into a town and subsequently received its town charter in the year 1297. Eventually, Luckau went on to become the capital of the Margraviate Lower Lusatia in the year 1492.
Similarly Lieberose, yet another old Lower Sorbian village, which was founded in the year 1250, received its town charter in 1302.
The development of other such villages, namely- Wusterhausen, Teupitz, Königs, Mittenwalde, and Golssen can be traced back to similar origins.
Spreewald also gave its name to some of the German districts such as Dahme-Spreewald and Oberspreewald-Lausitz.
The district
Spreewald is an expansive woodland region situated in the state of Brandenburg, towards the south-eastern boundary. It is extensively crisscrossed by the river Spree and its numerous branches. Spreewald is considered as a very popular travel destination in all of East Germany, owing to its untouched countryside, several leisure activities and its small, lovable towns and villages. Lübben is the principal town of the area and is also the biggest town in Spreewald with a population of around 14,000 citizens. This region is totally worth a visit, be it any time of the year.
Even though the culinary delights are not the only thing this region has to offer, Spreewald is most famous for its delicious pickled gherkins.
Other important sources of income in the Spreewald district include forestry, agriculture, and fishery, but people mostly depend on tourism to earn substantial revenue. The main trend among tourists here is to enjoy the exploration of the Spreewald in punts.
Travelling in the city
If you are actively seeking a quiet getaway to take a break from noisy civilization and enjoy nature and country life, this UNESCO protected forest region is the ideal place for you. This one day trip from Berlin is the perfect destination to enjoy in Northern Germany.
Considering a large number of tourists swarming to Spreewald every year, it is hard to believe that a long time ago in the sixth century AD, this area once used to be a farming region with a problem. Agriculture was extremely difficult here, owing to the area’s wetlands. To resolve the issue, the farmers dug channels (or Fließen) to the Spree for the purpose of effective irrigation and drainage.
Little did they know that these 800 miles of waterway would one day become the ideal way to tour the region. Not only that, but Spreewald is also blessed with 18,000 species of animals and plants, which implies that there is plenty more to see here, apart from the famous waterways of the region, thus rendering Spreewald as an ideal tourist destination.
Why visit?
There’s lots of fun to be had in the Spreewald as the area offers a whole host of diverse activities apt for sports fans, recreation seekers, and also those who are keen to discover the culture and love nature. A weekend trip would allow you to get to know this beautiful countryside better.
Major attractions
Leisurely boating in the canals of Spreewald: The canals are the major attraction of the area and also the best way to move around Spreewald. All you have to do is book a tour on any one of the many guided boat tours which will then allow you to glide slowly along the canals of Spreewald by punting, quite similar to Venice or Cambridge. While your guide navigates through the beautiful waters, you can relax and absorb information about your surroundings.
Ice Skate on the Spreewald Canals: Although the Spreewald is often perceived as more of a summer destination, the iconic canals are also an attraction during winter! Once the shallow waters freeze to form solid ice, it’s time for the locals to head towards the waterways with ice skates. One can often see kids as well as adults playing pick-up hockey games. Apart from the sports angle, the beauty of the pure white snow only adds another dimension to the Spreewald charm. Another thing to look forward to, if touring the Spreewald in winter is the warm mugs of Glühwein and delicious treats from local vendors!
Spreewald Summer Trails: If you are an avid traveler, but prefer to stay on land, Spreewald also offers you the option of forest walks. One can easily acquire walking directions by visiting the tourist office in Lubben from where you can purchase the relevant trail maps, or one could even go from Lubben to Lubbenau on foot. In case you prefer to get there faster, taking a mountain bike on any one of the numerous bike paths of Spreewald would also help.
Fishing in the Spreewald: Yet another way to enjoy the waterways of Spreewald is by fishing. Zander, Pike, Eel, Carp, Tench and various other freshwater fishes can be caught in the canals of this region. However, a valid fishing permit is required for this activity, and it is also essential to follow certain rules set by the tourism department of the region to protect the biosphere.
Spa in the Spreewald: It wouldn’t really count as a relaxing break in the countryside without a spa, would it? Spreewald Therme is hands-down one of the best spas near Berlin which makes use of the distinctive mineral water in the saltwater thermal baths, and its brine is believed to be beneficial for improving skin, boosting the respiratory system along with the entire musculoskeletal system.
Museums and Heritage Sites of the Spreewald: One must visit Lehde, a 700-year-old preserved Spreewald village near Lübbenau, which consists of many small islands which are further connected by pedestrian bridges. Back in the year 1929, this protected heritage site could only be reached by boat. It is also interesting to know that the fire brigade and garbage service also have their own boats.
Slavic Fort: Also worth visiting is the famous landmark in Raddusch, referred to as the Slavic Fort. This fort is said to have been rebuilt over the years and is just around 15 km south of Spreewald Therme – The Thermal Spa in Burg (Spreewald) is the ideal way to relax after an eventful day of biking, canoeing, and hiking. This state of the art facility offers the very best in massages, saunas and also luxurious accommodations for staying the night.
Arznei- und Gewürzpflanzengarten Burg Spreewald – If you wish to take some nature back home with you, this beautiful garden is the right place to visit.
Gurken- und Bauernhausmuseum – Here, you will not only get to taste and enjoy the famous Spreewald pickle but also track the history behind and its development.
Spreewald Aquarium – This aquarium is home to innumerous varieties of fish that live in the Spreewald.
WHAT ELSE IS AROUND?
The Spreewald is just around 100 kilometers away from Berlin and Dresden. The region is quite well served by public transport. The trains run from Berlin to Lübbenau, almost every 30 minutes. This journey can be completed under an hour.
With so many places to explore and see around, Spreewald is a must visit place in Germany. So go ahead and visit this amazing place with family and friends and make the most of your next vacations. You can’t afford to miss visiting this place!