Spreewald Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and insights into local culture in Spreewald, Germany's hidden gem. Read on for a comprehensive travel guide to Spreewald.


Introduction to Spreewald

Spreewald, the hidden gem of Germany’s Brandenburg region, offers a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located in the heart of Europe, Spreewald boasts of its scenic natural beauty, rich history, and traditional culture. Here, you can expect to find extensive canals network, lush green forests, historical landmarks, traditional architecture, vibrant festivals, and a thriving food and drink scene.

List of Places to Visit in Spreewald

Spreewald offers a diverse range of experiences and attractions for visitors. Here’s our top pick of places to visit in Spreewald:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Spreewald Museum - This museum located in Lübbenau offers insights into the region’s history, culture, and traditional customs.
  2. Slavic Fort Raddusch - Explore the 1200-year-old remnants of the Slavic civilization at this UNESCO-listed world heritage site.
  3. Schloss Lübbenau - Visit this Renaissance-era palace and explore its gardens, chapel, and exhibitions.

Natural Attractions of Spreewald: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Spreewald Biosphere Reserve - A vast network of canals, waterways, and meadows that offer breathtaking views and unique flora and fauna.
  2. Kur-und Sagenpark Burg - A theme park celebrating local legends and myths, located amidst beautiful forested hillsides.
  3. Kletterwald Lübbenau - An adventure park consisting of zip-lines, rope bridges, and obstacle courses, suitable for all ages.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Spreewald

Spreewald is best explored by biking or hiking through its scenic landscapes. Here are some popular routes:

  1. Gurkenradweg: A 260-kilometer bike route that connects Spreewald’s towns and villages.
  2. Prieros Hike Trail: A 10-kilometer trail near the Großer Glubigsee lake, offering beautiful views of the forest and lakes.
  3. Spreewald-Rundweg: A 7-kilometer hike through the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Best Things to Do in Spreewald: Activities and Tours

Here are some exciting activities and tours that visitors can enjoy in Spreewald:

  1. Traditional punting tour: A guided boat tour through the canals of Spreewald aboard a traditional wooden barge.
  2. Berry- and mushroom-picking: Participate in seasonal fruit-picking activities organized by local farmers.
  3. Spreewald-Therme: Relax in a thermal spa located amidst scenic natural landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Spreewald

Here’s a suggested one-week itinerary for your Spreewald trip:

Day 1: Arrival and exploration of Lübbenau’s old town Day 2: Boat tour of the canals and Spreewald Museum visit. Day 3: Trip to Cottbus and exploration of its parks and palaces. Day 4: Visit the Slavic Fort Raddusch and Spreewald Biosphere Reserve. Day 5: Explore Burg’s Kur-und Sagenpark and enjoy berry-picking activities. Day 6: Participate in a traditional punting tour and visit Schloss Lübbenau. Day 7: Relax in the Spreewald-Therme and attend a local festival.

Food and Drink Scene of Spreewald

Spreewald boasts of a unique culinary culture that heavily relies on locally sourced berries, pickles, and fish. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Spreewälder Gurkensuppe: A refreshing cucumber soup served with smoked salmon.
  2. Spreewälder Plinse: Local-style thin pancakes served with apple sauce and sour cream.
  3. Spreewälder Meerrettich-Apfel-Saft: A spicy apple and horseradish juice, perfect for summer days.

Local Beverages

  1. Spreewälder Kräuterlikör: A traditional herbal liqueur made using local herbs and spices.
  2. Spreewälder Gurkenbier: A beer blended with pickled cucumber juice, offering a unique taste.
  3. Spreewälder Holundersaft: A refreshing elderberry juice, perfect for hot days.

Where to Stay in Spreewald: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Spreewald offers a range of lodging options to cater to varied budgets and preferences. Here are some popular options:

  1. Sorat Hotel Spreewald - A four-star hotel located in Lübbenau’s old town, offering river views and wellness facilities.
  2. Pension Zum Holzpantoffel - A cozy guesthouse located amidst scenic natural landscapes, offering homey rooms and local breakfast.
  3. Jugendherberge Burg Spreewald - Budget-friendly hostel located near Kur-und Sagenpark and offering family rooms and bike hire.

What to Buy in Spreewald: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Spreewald is known for its distinctive local products and handcrafted goods. Here are some items to bring back from your trip:

  1. Spreewälder Gewürzgurken: Jarred pickles in different flavors and spices, an ideal souvenir and snack.
  2. Spreewälder Apfelstrudel: A traditional apple strudel, perfect for bringing back home and sharing with loved ones.
  3. Spreewälder Holz- und Bastarbeiten: Handcrafted wooden and wicker products made using local materials, offering unique souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Spreewald

Spreewald’s culture and customs are heavily influenced by its tradition and history. Visitors can witness unique events and festivals throughout the year, like the traditional Easter procession and the annual cucumber festival. Moreover, the region is home to the Sorbian minority, an ethnic group famous for their distinct clothing, language, and customs.

Best Time to Visit Spreewald

Spreewald is an all-season destination, offering experiences aligned with the changing weather. Here’s a monthly breakdown:

March to May: Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and Easter celebrations. June to August: Warm and sunny weather, outdoor activities, and traditional festivals. September to November: Mild temperatures, autumn foliage, and harvest festivals. December to February: Cold weather, winter festivities, and quiet landscapes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Spreewald

Here are some tips to ensure a comfortable and respectful visit to Spreewald:

Do:

  1. Try to learn a basic Sorbian language greeting or phrase.
  2. Respect the natural landscapes and greenery and pick up your trash.
  3. Dress appropriately for the weather and activities.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t swim in the canals and waterways, as it is not allowed for safety and conservation reasons.
  2. Don’t disturb wildlife and stick to designated trails and paths.
  3. Don’t underestimate sun exposure, and apply sunscreen regularly.

Safety and Health

Safety in Spreewald

Spreewald is generally a safe region, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take care to avoid accidents while exploring the canals and outdoor areas.

Health in Spreewald

Visitors are advised to carry a personal first aid kit and have necessary vaccinations. It is also crucial to consult a doctor before partaking in physical activities and sports.

Getting to Spreewald: Transportation Options and Logistics

Spreewald is well-connected to major cities/towns in Germany. Here are some transportation options:

  1. Air: The closest major airport is Berlin Tegel Airport, located 120 kilometers away from Spreewald.
  2. Train: Regular train services connect Spreewald to Berlin, Cottbus, and Dresden.
  3. Bus: Regular bus services connect Spreewald’s towns and villages.

Airports Near Spreewald

  1. Berlin Tegel Airport: 120 kilometers away
  2. Berlin Schoenefeld Airport: 70 kilometers away
  3. Dresden Airport: 150 kilometers away

Bus Stations Near Spreewald

  1. Lübbenau Bus Station
  2. Burg Bus Station
  3. Cottbus Bus Station

Other Options

  1. Car rental services are available in major towns and cities.
  2. Cycling is a popular means of transportation within Spreewald’s towns and villages.

How to Get Around in Spreewald

Biking and walking are the best ways to explore Spreewald’s natural landscapes and scenic towns. Visitors can also take guided boat tours or punting tours to explore the canals.

Where to Go Next from Spreewald: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Spreewald is well-connected to some of Germany’s most beautiful destinations. Some popular nearby places include:

  1. Berlin: Germany’s capital city, offering a range of attractions, galleries, and museums.
  2. Dresden: A city filled with Baroque architecture, museums, and art galleries.
  3. Bautzen: A historic town known for its unique architectural landmarks and cultural festivals.

Conclusion

Spreewald promises a unique and unforgettable travel experience for travelers looking to explore Germany’s hidden beauty. With its natural landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and unique gastronomy, Spreewald offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a food lover, Spreewald has something to offer that will make your trip unforgettable.

Typical Spreewald atmosphere. Typical Spreewald atmosphere.