Wendisch Rietz offers several distinct ways to enjoy a stay by the water: lakes lie to the north, south and west of the town, alongside a swimming area, Kneipp facilities and a designated town walk.
Lakes and Getting Your Bearings
To the north of Wendisch Rietz lies Lake ScharmĂĽtzel, covering 13.9 square kilometres. To the south is the Glubig Lakes chain, set in almost untouched nature. To the west lies Lake Storkow, which has been connected to Lake ScharmĂĽtzel by the Rietz Canal since 1732. These locations give the town a clear position among several bodies of water, without requiring them all to be combined into a single route.
Swimming Area, Kneipp Facilities and Playgrounds
The Festwiese swimming area on Lake ScharmĂĽtzel has a well-maintained sunbathing lawn, a small sandy beach and step-free access to the water for wheelchair users. As facilities may change, it is a good idea to check their current status before visiting.
The Kneipp Park brings together a variety of options in one place: facilities include a fitness trail, Kneipp pools for adults and children, a meditation lawn and a playground. There are also foot and arm baths, a barefoot trail and fitness equipment for independent use. In the herb garden, you can learn about the healing effects of native herbs.
The Kneipp Corner is different: there, a water play feature and an arm basin invite visitors to try Kneipp treatments. Wendisch Rietz also has sports and playgrounds. Centrally located, the Haus des Gastes houses the tourist information office and “Books & More”. Its selection includes novels as well as children’s, young adult and nonfiction books, a children’s play corner and a small selection of board games.
Scharmuntzelland leisure park has an adventure playground and a petting zoo with ponies, alpacas, donkeys and other animals. If you plan a visit, check current opening information before you travel.
Exploring on Foot and by Canoe
The 9 km Wendisch Rietz town walk starts and ends at the Haus des Gastes. If you plan to do the walk as a separate activity, it gives you a clearly designated starting and finishing point. South of Wendisch Rietz, the 66 Lakes Trail links the Glubig Lakes; it offers a different way to explore the area from the walk through town.
A canoe is needed for the Water Lily Tour. You can rent one at the starting point at Surf & Fun in Wendisch Rietz. Before setting off, check whether the rental service is currently operating and whether a canoe is available.
Fishing Traditions and Traces of History
Fishing traditions are still carried on at Fischland on Lake ScharmĂĽtzel. Fresh fish and regional smoking traditions have shaped this part of town for many years. This gives local culture its own connection to the water, alongside opportunities for swimming and excursions.
The remains of the former Schwarzhorn hunting lodge can be seen in the woods along Schwarzhorner Weg. The grounds are not accessible. The visible remains offer a glimpse of the former estate, rather than an opportunity to visit the grounds.
Planning Your Journey and Stay
One train route to Wendisch Rietz from Berlin Central Station goes via Königs Wusterhausen: first take the RE7, then the RB36. Check current connections before travelling. The lock is also part of the town’s transport history: it was built in Wendisch Rietz in 1862 and provides direct boat access from there all the way to Berlin. This does not constitute a timetable; consult up-to-date information for specific connections.
If you are looking for hotels in Wendisch Rietz, first decide which of the town’s attractions matter most for your trip: the swimming area, the Kneipp facilities, a hike, fishing traditions or a canoe trip. You can then compare individual places to stay with your personal requirements. These activities cater to different interests and do not automatically form a single day route.
Discover more destinations: Steinhöfel, Berkenbrück, Storkow, Werder, Gosen-Neu Zittau, Fürstenwalde/Spree, Wilmersdorf, Schlaubetal.
Back to the regional travel overview: Oder-Spree.
