Just 100 KM south-east of Berlin lies a landscape unique in Central Europe.

Here the Spree divides itself into around 300 smaller rivers. One hundred and ninety of these fascinating water streets are navigable. The Kahn – a long low canoe with seats –has been the most important means of transport in the Spree Forest for more than 1000 years. The post comes by Kahn, shopping is transported home by water, and even cows travel by Kahn on their way to pasture.

This area was relatively unknown 150 years ago, until the first Berliners headed here in search of the restorative powers of the landscape, and Theodore Fontane spent time here in 1859. Today the Kahn trips are a major tourist attraction.lte. 

Alternatively you can explore the waterscape alone or with a partner in a paddle boot. This way you see up close the meadows, forest and pastures of the forest and can marvel at the lovingly restored and maintained thatched roof cottages, which are a testament to the Slav peoples who have settled here since the 6^th century.

The Sorbs and Wends who live here shape the area through their language, their wonderful costumes and their traditions and customs. The beautiful, artistically decorated head-dresses of the women and the intricately decorated Easter eggs leave a lasting impression on the visitor. The traditional festivals and workshops where craftsmen and women sew costumes and make wooden clogs welcome the visitor and give a fascinating insight into the way of life of the Sorbs and the Wends.

Further information available at