Spreewald

A unique natural and cultural landscape in southeast Brandenburg featuring a network of rivers and canals creating a lush maze-like environment. This UNESCO biosphere reserve is perfect for kayaking, cycling, and experiencing traditional Sorbian culture.

Things to do

• Kayaking the Spreewald Waterways — Paddle through the narrow canals and river branches that weave through the biosphere reserve, passing traditional villages and pristine wetlands.
• Cycling the Spreewald Routes — Follow well-marked bike trails connecting villages and nature reserves across the flat landscape, stopping at local farms and cultural sites.
• Visit Lübbenau — Explore the largest town in Spreewald with its historic market square, traditional wooden boats, and access to multiple canal routes.
• Lehde Open-Air Museum — Wander through this preserved village of traditional Sorbian farmhouses and learn about regional history and architecture.
• Tropical Islands Waterpark — Experience Germany's largest indoor tropical resort near Krausnick, featuring lagoons, slides, and a rainforest dome.
• Spreewald Museum in Lübbenau — Discover exhibits on Sorbian culture, traditional crafts, agricultural history, and the region's natural heritage.
• Boat Tours from Lübbenau Harbor — Take guided gondola-style punting tours through narrow waterways where motor boats cannot reach, narrated by local experts.
• Sundial Village of Burg — Visit the charming village known for its traditional Sorbian customs, timber-framed houses, and scenic canal setting.

Food to try

• Spreewälder Gurken (Spreewald Gherkins) — Crisp, tangy pickled cucumbers preserved in traditional brine with dill and garlic, a UNESCO-protected regional specialty sold fresh at markets and farms.
• Kartoffelpuffer mit Apfelmus — Crispy potato pancakes served warm with unsweetened applesauce, a hearty traditional comfort food found in local restaurants.
• Laugenbrezel and Bauernbrot — Traditional soft pretzels and dark rye bread baked daily by local bakeries using regional recipes passed down through generations.
• Fresh Fish from the Spree — Locally caught pike, perch, and carp prepared simply grilled or smoked, served at waterside restaurants and village inns.
• Nut Cake (Nussecke) — A sweet pastry corner treat with hazelnut filling and chocolate topping, typical of Sorbian bakery culture and afternoon coffee culture.
• Sorbian Easter Eggs — Intricately hand-decorated pysanky eggs created using traditional beeswax-resist batik techniques unique to the region's cultural heritage.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Sorbian Traditions — The indigenous Sorbian people maintain their own language and customs; look for bilingual signs, attend traditional festivals like Spreewälder Spreewald Festival, and support local Sorbian businesses and artisans.
• Spring Flood Navigation — The Spreewald experiences natural seasonal flooding in spring that temporarily changes water levels and accessible routes; check water conditions before planning kayak trips.
• Traditional Boat Etiquette — When encountering punters and traditional boatmen on narrow canals, yield the right of way and move your kayak to the side to allow passage and maintain local water customs.
• Learn Basic Sorbian Phrases — Locals appreciate visitors who attempt words like 'Witaj' (hello) and 'Wutrobny dźak' (thank you), showing respect for the region's distinct cultural identity.