Turnow-Preilack combines cycling with a history of milling and Sorbian-Wendish traditions. Preilack is surrounded by wet meadows; in Turnow, the Dutch-style windmill provides a tangible link to historic technology. The history of the two districts also has different milestones. If you are looking for accommodation, your priorities may be the deciding factor: Is cycling the main focus, are you interested in the mill, or would you like to explore the historical and cultural traces of the area?
Cycling between Turnow and Preilack
The Heideradweg begins at route point 65 in Turnow-Preilack and is 47 kilometres long. The Naturwelt Lieberoser Heide Tour reaches Preilack via the Heideradweg in the direction of the Lieberoser Wüste and then continues through Turnow. The distinction is useful for planning: 47 kilometres is the total length of the Heideradweg, while the tour via Preilack and Turnow adds the route described here. Check the route information before setting out.
In the wider Spree-Neiße destination, the Naturwelt Lieberoser Heide Tour follows the Spree further along its regional route, passing lakes and wetlands through a protected wilderness area. The Spree Cycle Route crosses the region for around 60 kilometres and runs mostly along paved river dikes. The wider Spree-Neiße destination therefore offers different cycling options: a route starting in Turnow-Preilack and the Spree Cycle Route, described regionally as a riverside route with a specified surface. Gardens are another highlight of the wider Spree-Neiße destination: the East German Rose Garden in Forst (Lausitz) is a 17-hectare park with tens of thousands of roses in almost 1,000 varieties.
Turnow Dutch-style windmill: technology and history
Visitors can learn about the history and function of the Turnow Dutch-style windmill. Since it was converted in the 1930s, the historic mill machinery has been powered by an electric motor. The mill also contains a functioning lift that is more than 100 years old. The drive and lift offer two specific perspectives on the mill’s technology: the switch to an electric motor and a much older piece of equipment that is still in working order.
Historical traces and traditions
Turnow developed after the construction of Peitz Fortress in the 16th century. Preilack was first mentioned in 1587 under the name Preylangk. The milestones differ: Turnow’s development after the fortress was built is documented, while Preilack is associated with an early written mention under an older form of its name.
At the entrance to Preilack from the direction of Peitz are the former customs station and a Prussian round milepost. The former customs post is known locally as the Zollhaus. These historical landmarks add tangible traces at the entrance to Preilack to the history of the area.
Sorbian-Wendish traditions are celebrated throughout the year in Turnow-Preilack. They include Fastnacht and the raising of the maypole; the Hahnrupfen rooster-pulling festival is celebrated specifically in Turnow.
Discover more destinations: Heinersbrück, Peitz, Neuhausen/Spree, Welzow, Guben, Drebkau, Groß Schacksdorf-Simmersdorf, Schenkendöbern.
Back to the travel overview: Spree-Neiße.
