Hannover Region

Waterside walks and horse trails

With a wealth of things to do and places to go, the beautiful and sparsely populated countryside in Hannover Region has something for everyone – whether you are looking for some exercise in splendid scenery, wish to explore historic trails or simply relax and recharge the batteries. Lake Steinhude, the largest lake in Lower Saxony, is a popular place for yachting, surfing, kitesurfing, swimming and sunbathing. Tourists can also take a historic sailing boat to visit the island fortress of Wilhelmstein. Observation platforms at intervals along the 35-kilometre path around the lake afford fantastic panoramas. The Burgdorfer Land and Wedemark regions are a rider’s paradise – whether on a horse of their own, a hired mount or in a horse-drawn carriage. Hikers can explore the vast green areas and many historic treasures of the 405-metre high Deister Ridge. The sights and sounds of unspoilt natural countryside can also be enjoyed in other recreational areas just outside the city boundaries, such as the Koldingen Lakes, Wietzepark in Isernhagen and Langenhagen and Lake Altwarmbüchen.

Like something out of a fairy-tale …

… Marienburg Castle is perched on a hilltop near the town of Pattensen. It was the last summer residence of the Guelph Kings of Hannover and can be seen from as far off as Calenberger Land. The splendid neo-gothic palace was built by King George V in the mid-19th century as a gift to his wife Mary. Guided tours offer a fascinating glimpse of life behind the scenes. In summer, the Castle is used as a venue for live music and plays. The old coach house and stables provide a special ambience for the restaurant.

Pedalling around the region

In close cooperation with the 21 local authorities, Hannover Region has developed a “Cycling Region”, a network of cycle tracks with a total length of 1,000 kilometres. No fewer than 15 signposted routes start from Maschsee Lake in the centre of Hannover, spreading out in a star-shaped pattern to destinations throughout the region and on to the neighbouring areas. The 160-kilometre “Green Ring” is an interesting round trip for cyclists, while the 100 kilometres of the Deister circuit climb to impressive heights in some places.