Close to Nature: the Brandenburg National Parks Trail
April 11, 2025
Brandenburg, surrounding the German capital of Berlin, is a land rich in extraordinary natural wealth. Its national and scenic parks are true natural treasures, offering unforgettable experiences for the whole family. In this article, we will take you on a fascinating journey through three unique protected areas: Naturpark Barnim, Lower Oder Valley National Park and Naturpark Uckermärkische Seen. Each of these places has its own unique character, offering not only beautiful landscapes, but also many opportunities for active recreation and nature education. Whether you're a hiking enthusiast, passionate about ornithology, or just looking for a quiet spot for a family picnic, Brandenburg's national parks have something for everyone. Get ready to discover wildlife, observe rare species of animals and plants, and enjoy communing with nature in its purest form. We invite you to explore these unique places, which are sure to delight both adults and the youngest explorers!
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Naturpark Barnim - the green lungs of Berlin
Naturpark Barnim, located northeast of Berlin, is a true oasis of peace and greenery, ideal for day trips for the capital's residents and tourists. Covering an area of more than 750 square kilometers, the park offers a remarkable variety of landscapes - from dense forests to picturesque lakes and marshes.
How to get there: The easiest way to get to the park is by public transportation from Berlin. You can take the S-Bahn S2 line to Bernau station, from where buses run deep into the park. For motorists, access is possible via the A11 highway, exit at Wandlitz.
Main attractions:
- tourist information center in Wandlitz (Breitscheidstraße 8, 16348 Wandlitz) - here you can get maps and trail information.
- Educational trails - especially recommended is the 'Waldschule Bogensee', where children can learn about forest ecosystems.
- bike trails - the park offers more than 600 km of marked trails.
- Bird watching - especially around Liepnitzsee and Wandlitzsee lakes.
For families with children:
- Prepare comfortable trekking shoes and clothes suitable for the weather conditions.
- Bring binoculars - they will come in handy for observing birds and other animals.
- At the information center you can rent bicycles, including for children.
- We recommend the route around Liepnitzsee lake (about 10 km) - easy and scenic.
Practical information:
- The park is open all year round, admission is free.
- The best time to visit: from May to October.
- There are numerous picnic spots and viewpoints in the park.
- Nearest accommodations: guesthouses in Wandlitz and surrounding towns.
Naturpark Barnim is an ideal place for families looking for active recreation close to nature. The abundance of flora and fauna, clean air and tranquility make it an excellent alternative to the hustle and bustle of the city. The park offers not only relaxation, but also nature education for the youngest. Walking along the forest paths, you may come across roe deer, wild boars or foxes, and by the lakes you can observe various species of water birds. This is the perfect place to instill a love of nature in children and show them the importance of protecting it.
The Lower Oder Valley National Park - a a paradise for bird lovers
The Lower Oder Valley National Park, established in 1995, is a unique area on the map of Brandenburg, encompassing the floodplains of the Oder River. It is a place where nature rules undivided, offering refuge to numerous species of birds and other animals.
How to get there: The nearest major city is Schwedt/Oder. From Berlin, you can take the regional train (RE3) to Schwedt station, and from there take a bus or bike to the park's borders. By car, the easiest way to get there is via the B2 or B166.
Main attractions:
- Criewen National Park Information Center (Park 2, 16303 Schwedt/Oder OT Criewen) - here you can learn about maps and routes.
- Observation towers - ideal for birdwatching, especially recommended tower in Staffelde.
- Educational path 'Storchenroute' - a route dedicated to storks, popular with families.
- Canoeing on the old riverbeds of the Oder River - organized by local tour companies.
For families with children:
- Take binoculars and bird identification guides with you.
- Comfortable, waterproof shoes are a must, especially in spring and autumn.
- We recommend an easy bicycle route along the dykes - about 15 km, flat and safe for children.
- You can rent bicycles and kayaks at the information center.
Practical information:
- The park is available all year round, admission is free.
- The best period for bird watching: spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).
- There are strict rules of nature protection in the park - go only on designated trails.
- Nearest accommodations: hotels and guesthouses in Schwedt/Oder and surrounding towns.
The Lower Oder Valley National Park is a true paradise for bird and wildlife lovers. It is one of the most important breeding and resting places for migratory birds in Europe. Here you can observe rare species such as the bald eagle, crane and bean goose. The park offers a unique opportunity to see what unfettered river activity looks like - with regular flooding and a wealth of oxbow lakes. This is a great place to teach children respect for nature and show them how natural river ecosystems function. A trip to this park is not only a nature lesson, but also a chance to experience a real adventure in the heart of wild nature.
Naturpark Uckermärkische Seen - a land of lakes and castles
Naturpark Uckermärkische Seen, located in the northeastern part of Brandenburg, is a picturesque area encompassing more than 200 lakes, forests and historic towns. Established in 1997, this nature park offers ideal conditions for water recreation and active tourism.
How to get there: The easiest way to get from Berlin is by regional train to Templin (line RE3), from where buses run to various parts of the park. By car, you can reach it via the B109 or B198.
Main attractions:
- the Park Information Center in Templin (Am Bürgergarten 1, 17268 Templin) - here you can get maps and information about attractions.
- Lake Templiner See - ideal for swimming and water sports.
- Boitzenburg Castle - a beautifully restored mansion with a park.
- Prenzlau - historic town with the Gothic St. Mary's Church.
- bike trails - the park offers more than 800 km of marked trails.
For families with children:
- Prepare bathing suits and towels - swimming in the clear lakes is the main attraction.
- It's worth bringing bicycles or renting them on site - the trails are easy and safe for children.
- We recommend a boat cruise on Lake Uckersee - the cruises are suitable for families with children.
- There is an amusement park 'El Dorado' in Templin, ideal for younger children.
Practical information:
- The park is available all year round, admission is free.
- The best time to visit: from May to September, when the water in the lakes is warm.
- There are many campsites and campgrounds in the park - ideal for families who like close contact with nature.
- Nearest accommodations: hotels and pensions in Templin, Prenzlau and surrounding towns.
Naturpark Uckermärkische Seen is the perfect place for a family vacation. The diversity of the landscape - from crystal clear lakes to dense beech forests - means there is something for everyone. The park offers ideal conditions for water sports, fishing or simply relaxing on sandy beaches. For history buffs, the numerous castles and palaces in the area are an added attraction. Children will surely delight in the opportunity to observe beavers or otters, which inhabit the local waters in large numbers. This is a place where you can not only relax, but also learn the importance of protecting natural water ecosystems.
All in all, Brandenburg's national and scenic parks offer extraordinary opportunities for family recreation in nature. From the wilderness of the Lower Oder Valley, to the green lungs of Berlin in Barnim, to the Uckermark Lake District, each area has its own unique character and attractions. The common denominator is the richness of nature, the purity of the environment and excellent conditions for active recreation. By visiting these places, you will not only provide yourself and your children with an unforgettable experience, but also contribute to the environmental education of the youngest. Remember that communing with nature is not only a pleasure, but also a responsibility - let's take care of these beautiful areas together, so that future generations can enjoy their charm.
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