Did you think fairy-tale forests only exist in picture books? You were wrong: a truly enchanted place, where nature seems to have sprung from a romantic tale, lies much closer to Berlin than you might think. It’s not just Baroque castles or deep-blue lakes that let you immerse yourself in the tranquility and diversity of Brandenburg, but also some of the region’s most pristine landscapes . A piece of genuine, untouched nature has become rare these days—yet that is exactly what you’ll find very close to the capital. Where? In the Briesetal valley near Birkenwerder: one of the most pristine natural areas right on Berlin’s northern city limits, located in Barnim Nature Park.
The area is traversed by the Briese, a small river that originates at Lake Wandlitz and eventually flows into the Havel. The valley stretches between Wandlitz and Birkenwerder and is designated as a European protected area . It encompasses a diverse stream landscape with lakes, wetlands, and extensive forests.
The landscape of the Briesetal appears unusually wild and almost primeval. The river winds its way through a glacial meltwater channel in numerous curves, creating a natural, meandering waterway .
The area is characterized above all by dense alder and ash forests—the so-called alder swamp forests—some of which stand in the water. Added to this are bogs, wet meadows, and small lakes, which make the area appear like a complex, finely tuned ecosystem .
The Briesetal is of particular ecological value and is one of the protected FFH (Fauna-Flora-Habitat) areas. It encompasses a largely natural river course with adjacent wetland habitats as well as rare plant species such as orchids. The area also provides habitat for numerous animal species. These include beavers, whose presence is easily recognized by gnawed trees and small dams. Various amphibians and insects are also native here, as are many bird species that are specially adapted to wetlands.
The Briesetal is above all a destination for peaceful nature experiences and ranks among the most popular hiking areas in the Berlin area. A circular trail of about eight kilometers leads from the Birkenwerder S-Bahn station through the valley and back again, making it ideal for a relaxed hike. Those with more time can extend the route and take longer walks
