The biotope east of the settlement gives Rethwisch a distinctive natural feature: ponds, a circular trail and observation shelters combine a walk with wildlife watching. For your travel plans, there are bus connections and access via the A23. The wider Steinburg destination also offers regional nature and cultural themes that add to the picture of the area.
The Biotope on the Holcim Canal
The biotope is located on the Holcim Canal in the Breitenburger Moor, east of the settlement. The site includes two ponds, planted vegetation, benches, a circular trail, observation shelters and information boards. Its various features appeal to different interests: the trail offers an opportunity for a walk, the shelters support wildlife watching, and the information boards provide additional information during your visit.
The site’s development also shapes its character. The biotope was disconnected from ongoing drainage. This allowed a wetland with a high groundwater level to regenerate. So, if you are interested in landscapes and nature, you will find more than just a trail and opportunities for wildlife watching here: you will also find a wetland that was able to regenerate after the water regime changed.
Other points of interest in Rethwisch
Another perspective on Rethwisch focuses on technical landmarks: the cement works is considered a prominent landmark. Since early 2017, a wind farm with 16 turbines has stood along the village road. If you wish to visit this location specifically, check the current configuration in advance. This allows you to make nature watching at the biotope a focus, or to take an interest in the technical installations as well, without turning this into a prescribed sightseeing route.
Getting here by bus or car
A bus route connects Rethwisch with Münsterdorf and Lägerdorf, in the direction of Itzehoe and Elmshorn. As local bus arrangements can change, it is advisable to check the timetable before setting off. By car, take the A23 and exit at junction 11, signposted “Lägerdorf/Rethwisch”. This gives you both a bus connection with specified places and directions, and a specific motorway exit to use as a reference when planning your journey.
Steinburg and Holstein as the regional setting
Within the wider Steinburg destination, the district’s varied landscape stretches from the Elbe to the Holsteiner Auenland. Five long-distance cycle routes cross Holstein: the Elbe Cycle Route, North Sea Cycle Route, Ochsenweg, Mönchsweg and Kiel Canal Route. The Elbe Cycle Route is also one of the five long-distance cycle routes that cross the Steinburg district. Route alignments and signage may change, so check the latest route information when planning a cycling trip.
Another way to explore Holstein is by taking canoe trips along a total of 250 kilometres of waterways on the Stör and its tributaries. Check water conditions and access points before paddling. The planning differs considerably: for a cycling trip, the route and signage are important points of reference, while paddling depends on water conditions and access.
Holstein also offers points of interest for those interested in culture and food. Maritime history can be experienced in the towns and harbours along the Elbe; boat trips on historic vessels are also available. The region also offers museums, galleries, concerts, theatre performances and traditional festivals. Many farms in Holstein run farm cafés throughout the year, serving homemade cakes and gateaux. So the region has more to offer than walks and wildlife watching, with culture, boat trips and places to stop for refreshments as well.
Discover more destinations: Wulfsmoor, Willenscharen, Krempe, Moorhusen, Heiligenstedten, Altenmoor, Kellinghusen, Nortorf
For the regional travel overview: Steinburg.
