The Straußfurt retention basin is a distinctive natural feature for a stay focused on landscapes and birdlife. Together with the surrounding agricultural land, it forms a resting area for large gatherings of migratory birds. These include, in particular, Eurasian curlews and northern lapwings, as well as various species of ducks, rails and geese. Sightings vary by season, so take the time of year you plan to travel into account when setting your expectations.

Retention Basin and Landscape

Straußfurt is located in the landscape of the Thuringian Basin. The basin and the surrounding farmland together form the resting area. This means the focus is not only on the retention basin, but also on the surrounding agricultural landscape. For anyone interested in migratory birds, this offers a specific natural feature to consider when choosing a destination.

Cycling Around Straußfurt

Cyclists also have a specific point of interest: Straußfurt is connected via its cycle route network to the popular Unstrut Cycle Route. The cycle route connection therefore offers a distinct travel option alongside the resting area. Check current route conditions before setting off.

Culture, Landscape and Routes in Sömmerda

In the Sömmerda travel region, the Gera-Unstrut lowlands cross the Thuringian Basin; broad river floodplains, used predominantly for arable farming, characterize the landscape. In Sömmerda itself, the Erfurter Tor offers a glimpse into the town's history: according to historical chronicles, it was built in 1395 as an entrance to the town within the existing fortifications and was one of the first of five gates in the town wall, which was expanded from 1589. Thanks to ongoing restoration and renovation work, the historic town wall is well preserved. The Historical and Technical Museum presents Sömmerda's 200-year industrial development—from the Dreyse rifle factory and Rheinmetall production sites to the office machine factory in the former GDR.

The history of gardens and crafts is also part of Sömmerda's story. The town park was laid out as a public garden and opened at Pentecost in 1903. Behind the Dreyse House is a Biedermeier-style garden with around 140 historic and English roses. In the district of Rohrborn is a woad mill that has been restored to its original condition. On the annual Mill Day on Whit Monday and at the Woad Mill Festival in August, woad is ground there as it was in the past, and visitors can learn about the old tradition. Check the current event dates before visiting.

Transport in Sömmerda

Sömmerda is connected to the regional and national transport network by the B 85 between Weimar and Bad Frankenhausen, the B 176 between Bad Langensalza and Naumburg, and the A 71 between Erfurt and Sangerhausen. The junctions are called Sömmerda-Süd and Sömmerda-Ost. Regional rail connections include routes between Erfurt and Sangerhausen and between Straußfurt and Großheringen; there are also numerous bus services to neighboring towns. If you plan to travel by train or bus, check the current timetables.

Discover more destinations: Bilzingsleben, Sömmerda, Gebesee, Weißensee, Henschleben, Rastenberg, Kindelbrück, Kannawurf.

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