Kollmar brings together the Elbe, the landscape of the Kollmar Marsh and a coastal history brought to life at the Dörpstuuv. The local attractions offer different ways to explore: a walk along the riverbank, a cycling loop through the marsh, the harbour area with its beach and playground, and a seasonal look at dike construction and storm surges. Whether you prefer spending time outdoors or are interested in coastal protection, Kollmar offers several ways to explore.
The Elbe, marshland and history
Kollmar lies on the Elbe in the Kollmar Marsh Landscape Conservation Area. Agriculture, historic farmsteads, harbours and beaches shape the area. The protected Elbe floodplain and riverbank provide breeding, resting and feeding grounds for numerous waterbird species.
Kollmar Church is also part of the area’s history: it was built in 1448. No chemical sprays or plant protection products are used in the rose garden on the Elbe.
Walks and circular routes
The approximately five-kilometre walk starts at Kollmar Harbour and goes to the mouth of the Krückau and back. It follows the Elbe floodplain, passing reeds, tidal creeks, pools and mudflats. When planning and during your walk, keep an eye on the incoming tide.
A cycling loop starts at Kollmar Harbour, follows the Elbe towards Bielenberg and continues through the marsh on quiet farm tracks, past drainage ditches, meadows and historic dike lines. The 22-kilometre Obsttörn (Orchard Tour) is a circular route through the fruit-growing area between Kollmar and Neuendorf. Seasonal conditions may vary on this route.
Different features matter when choosing a route: the incoming tide is a consideration on the riverbank walk, the cycling loop follows the Elbe and runs through the marsh, and the Orchard Tour passes through the fruit-growing area. This lets you choose a tour based on which part of the landscape interests you most.
Harbour, beach and getting around
In summer, the sandy beach at Kollmar Harbour is a place to relax, sunbathe and cool off in the water. Swimming conditions depend on the season and local conditions. The harbour playground is between Kollmar’s sandy beach and the dike; its facilities include a pirate ship with a viewing tower.
Bielenberg Harbour offers moorings for sailors and motorboat users. Check local availability before you arrive. For walks in Kollmar, the car park on Neuer Weg is considered the best parking option. As parking rules may change, it is advisable to check them before setting out.
Dörpstuuv: coastal protection and finds from the Elbe
The Dörpstuuv is open from May to September on the first and third Sunday of each month, from 2 to 5 p.m.; separate appointments are also possible. Check the opening arrangements before your visit.
The “Storm Surges and Coastal Protection” exhibition features panels and pictures about the development of the Kollmar Marsh, dike construction, coastal protection and major storm surges. The collection also includes finds from the Elbe dating from different periods: Stone Age relics, medieval jewellery, early modern cannonballs and later objects from ship galleys. The Dörpstuuv thus focuses both on the development of the coastal landscape and on finds from the Elbe.
Discover more destinations: Wilster, Stördorf, Brokdorf, Willenscharen, Itzehoe, Neuendorf-Sachsenbande, Kaaks, Sarlhusen.
For the main travel overview: Steinburg.
