Kirchwerder is a good destination for a trip where nature experiences and locally rooted history go hand in hand. In the Kirchwerder Wiesen, activities range from walking to cycling; St. Severini, the Riepenburger Mill and Hof Eggers each add their own distinct historical connections. When choosing accommodation, it is worth first deciding what you would like to focus on during your stay: nature trails or visits to individual cultural sites.

Kirchwerder Wiesen and Trails

The Kirchwerder Wiesen nature reserve covers 857 hectares and extends across Kirchwerder and Neuengamme. Fields, meadows, ditches, ponds and lakes define the landscape; cycling and walking are good ways to explore it. The southern nature route of the Elbe Cycle Route runs car-free through the protected area and along the embankment of the former Marschbahn railway. If you plan to cycle this route, check the route conditions before setting off.

On foot, a circular trail around Hof Eggers takes visitors into the landscape of the Vier- und Marschlande. Kirchwerder therefore offers two different ways to experience the area: along the designated southern nature route of the Elbe Cycle Route or on a circular trail connected with Hof Eggers. No specific walking time or route length is given for these trails, so plan your day according to your own schedule.

Tomb Slabs and Mill History

At St. Severini Kirchwerder, it is worth seeing both the bridal house and the cemetery. Nine large historic tomb slabs can be viewed in the bridal house. The cemetery has the largest collection of valuable tomb slabs from the 16th to the 19th century in the Vier- und Marschlande. Visits to St. Severini are generally possible during the day from Easter to the end of October; check current visiting arrangements before your visit.

Another historic site is the Riepenburger Mill, first mentioned in 1318. Visits are possible from February to December on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 2 and 6 p.m. These set visiting hours help with planning your day; check them before travelling so your visit falls within the designated time. The year 1318 refers to the mill’s first mention.

Hof Eggers and Regional Agriculture

Hof Eggers has been family-owned since 1377. The farm practices organic arable farming and livestock breeding; it offers food and drink, events and tourism activities. Together with the circular trail around the farm, this makes for a distinct focus: agriculture, activities centred on the farm and a trail into the landscape of the Vier- und Marschlande.

The farm’s market garden is also part of this agricultural context, although it is located in Hamburg-Spaden: since 2019, the farm has operated an organic market garden there under the Bioland label. It produces organic herbs and vegetable plants for the Hofcafé kitchen. These products are also available through the Hofcafé and specialist regional retailers.

More Places to Visit in Hamburg

The wider destination of Hamburg offers other distinct attractions. The Speicherstadt and Kontorhaus District, including the Chilehaus, were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2015. The Elbphilharmonie Plaza is 37 metres above the ground and offers views of the Elbe, the harbour, the Speicherstadt and HafenCity. Along the Außenalster, the banks are ideal for walks; its paths are also popular with joggers. These examples complement Kirchwerder’s natural and cultural sites with architecture, views and waterside paths in Hamburg.

Discover more destinations: Niendorf, Duvenstedt, Blankenese, Wohldorf-Ohlstedt, Hamburg, Eppendorf

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