Gülper See makes Havelaue a destination for nature watching and paths by the water. Around the lake, you can choose from routes of varying lengths; village churches add a distinctive cultural and historical dimension. When planning a stay, you can choose what to focus on, from bird migration, walking paths, cycling and canoeing to historic buildings.
Protected Area and Bird Migration
Since 1967, Gülper See and the adjacent grassland within Havelaue have been protected. Today, the nature reserve covers 1,200 hectares. In autumn, thousands of geese and cranes stop at the lake before continuing to their wintering grounds. The number of birds stopping over varies.
Between Hohennauen, Parey, Gülpe and Gülper See, there are three observation towers and two covered observation points that can be used for birdwatching year-round. Access to individual structures may be temporarily restricted.
Lakeside Paths, Dike and Birdwatching
The nature trail on the south shore is about 1.5 kilometres long, follows the shoreline and uses information boards to explain the lake’s birdlife. The hiking trail on the north shore is around 3.5 kilometres long, offers views and benches, and starts in Strodehne at Gahlberg. The two routes therefore differ both in length and in what they offer. Check local trail conditions before setting out.
A 2-kilometre path leads from a public car park in Gülpe along the dike to Gülper See; the route to the observation tower continues through the forest. The tower is on the south shore and can be reached via a short forest path. Parking is available on the road between Gülpe and Prietzen.
Cycling and Paddling
The 26-kilometre Stork Route is a cycling circuit through Gülpe, Gülper See, Prietzen, Wolsier and Spaatz. The route has no climbs and runs mostly on low-traffic roads or agricultural concrete tracks. Check the signage and trail conditions locally.
On the water, the 16-kilometre canoe circuit follows the Gülper Havel from Gülpe through Strodehne, Garz and Molkenberg, returning to Gülpe. On the natural Gülper Havel, paddlers may spot rare birds and possibly beavers. Route conditions and seasonal restrictions may change; check the information before your trip.
Village Churches with a History of Their Own
The village church in Spaatz was built in the mid-13th century and is considered the oldest fieldstone church in the area. Inside, an inscription on the Late Renaissance altarpiece is dated 29 June 1647. Access arrangements for the church may vary.
The village church in Gülpe was converted into a brick building in 1885 and is used as a place of quiet; this use may vary. Together, the two churches showcase different historical features: in Spaatz, the focus is on medieval fieldstone architecture and the dated altar; in Gülpe, on the conversion to a brick building and its use as a quiet place.
Discover more destinations: Semlin, Gollenberg, Schönwalde-Glien, Falkensee, Brieselang, Märkisch Luch, Kotzen, Seeblick.
For the overview of the wider region: Havelland.
