Beilrode offers several possible themes for an exploration: milling technology, parks and historic sites. You can tailor your choice to whether you are interested in the history of technology, a walk in the greenery or family-oriented activities. The historical time span ranges from a Bronze Age burial ground to brick production, which ended in 1971.
Mills and industrial history
The Dutch-style windmill was built around 1870. The five-storey structure has been open to the public since 2002, is still wind-powered and can grind grain. Check before travelling whether visits and operation are possible.
The GroĂźtreben ring kiln was built in 1865 and operated until 1971. Towards the end of its working life, it produced up to 1.6 million bricks a year. It is considered the oldest ring kiln in the world. Together, a windmill that can still grind grain and a former production site represent different chapters in the history of technology.
Parks and seasonal discoveries
Beilrode Park offers around three hectares of green space to explore. A small animal enclosure is home to fallow deer and goats. Rittergut Zwethau Park offers a different focus: this landscaped park on the grounds of a former manor estate is ideal for a relaxing stroll. Trees and plants are labelled and described; the playground is especially intended for families.
Die Welt der Reptilien (The World of Reptiles) also caters to families with its visitor attractions and is dedicated to the diversity of reptiles. Check the latest visitor information before your visit. The snowdrop garden in Döbrichau offers a clearly dated seasonal highlight: in 2018, it featured more than 120 varieties and around 10,000 flowers; at the time, the garden attracted visitors every year from January to March. If you are planning a seasonal visit, check the latest access arrangements before travelling.
Places of history and culture
The tank monument commemorates the meeting of Soviet and US armies in April 1945. The Falkenstruth barrow field offers a much older historical connection: it is a Bronze Age burial ground. Rosenfeld Church marks another turning point: after the previous church burned down to its foundations in 1629, the present church was rebuilt on the remaining walls from 1630 onwards.
At the nearby Graditz State Stud, horse breeding was first documented in 1630. Stud shows, guided tours and cultural events help preserve and pass on its cultural heritage. As event dates may change, check the schedule before your visit.
The Church of the Saviour is a meeting place for a range of activities. The adjoining rectory offers overnight accommodation for pilgrims travelling the Luther Way and the Way of St James. The Zwethau Book Tower offers passers-by a small everyday respite: you can take a book or leave one you have finished reading.
North Saxony as a wider destination
The wider destination of North Saxony includes the Dübener Heide Nature Park, the Dahlener Heide, Wermsdorf Forest and the floodplain landscapes along the Elbe and Mulde among the district’s natural areas. North Saxony has a well-developed, signposted network of hiking and cycling trails. Cycling, hiking and sailing are among the region’s active leisure options.
Discover more destinations: Rackwitz, Mockrehna, Schönwölkau, Großtreben-Zwethau, Löbnitz, Krostitz, Cavertitz, Naundorf.
Go to the wider travel overview: North Saxony.
