Ruhlsdorf reveals itself from different angles through local history at the community centre, Ruhlsdorf Lock on the Finow Canal and Ruhlesee. These connections with the water have different focal points: at the lock, waiting areas for canoes and recreational boats and a small rest area take centre stage; at the lake, the sandy beach and peninsula shape its character. The Ruhlsdorf Museum adds a cultural dimension. Those wishing to broaden their focus to the wider destination of Marienwerder will find its own walking, cycling and cultural themes there.

Lock and Ruhlesee: two connections with the water

Ruhlsdorf Lock is the western entrance lock of the Finow Canal. Waterway visitors will find waiting areas for canoes and recreational boats, a small rest area and a limited number of parking spaces. For practical planning, it is useful to distinguish between boat waiting areas and parking: waiting areas are available for canoes and recreational boats, while parking is limited. Take this into account when planning your visit.

Ruhlesee offers a different connection with the water. It is a quarry lake formed by gravel extraction and has a fine sandy beach. A peninsula divides it into two halves. The lake can therefore be described in terms of its origins, the character of its beach and its shape. While the lock is associated with waiting areas for canoes and recreational boats, the beach and peninsula define Ruhlesee.

Local history at the community centre

The Ruhlsdorf Museum brings local history to life through hands-on experiences. Twelve furnished rooms in the attic and entrance area of the community centre let visitors experience history in real spaces. The community centre is right next to the church in the centre of the village. This makes it different from the waterside attractions: the focus is on furnished interiors and local history. Visits are possible by appointment; please arrange your visit accordingly.

Horse-related activities

The “Insel” Fjord horse farm offers carriage and covered-wagon rides, as well as riding and driving lessons. These are different ways to include horses in your travel plans: a ride or a lesson. Check current availability directly with the provider before your visit.

Marienwerder as the wider regional setting

Ruhlsdorf/Zerpenschleuse station is a gateway to the Heidekraut Railway in the municipality of Marienwerder. Check connections before you travel. Hiking trails starting in Marienwerder connect Rosenbeck on the Werbellin Canal with Eichhorst and Lake Werbellin. Cyclists can take routes in all directions from Marienwerder; destinations within reach include the northern villages of Groß Schönebeck and Eichhorst, as well as Lake Werbellin. The difference between walking and cycling is clear: the hiking trails focus on routes connecting named places, while cycling offers routes in all directions and further destinations.

Marienwerder also offers culture and history: the Schifferfest (Boatmen’s Festival) is still celebrated there. A towpath in Marienwerder bears witness to horse-drawn towing in the 19th century. The two references relate to different time frames: the festival is still celebrated, while the towpath points to a historical practice.

For an overview of the wider destination: Marienwerder.