Spring has arrived in Berlin and is luring us into the city’s most beautiful parks. Whether we enjoy the sunshine on the rooftop terraces or in front of the ice cream parlors, the capital offers the right option for every taste. And the first high temperatures of the year are also ideal for a day trip. Brandenburg has beautiful landscapes. And even waterfalls! The Cöthen Waterfall is a real highlight in the Brandenburg landscape. After all, Brandenburg is mostly known for its flat lake districts. But the region around Bad Freienwalde – the “Brandenburg Nice” – shows itself here from an almost “mountainous” side.
A man-made waterfall
The water of the Cöthen stream plunges over several fieldstone steps into a deeply carved valley. Over a short distance, the water overcomes a considerable difference in height, creating a constant, soothing sound that is more commonly associated with the Harz Mountains or the Black Forest.
This small Cöthen waterfall looks very natural, but it was actually created artificially. Like so many beautiful things in Prussia, it is a work of landscape design from the 1820s. The entire Cöthen Park was the brainchild of Carl Friedrich von Jena. Theodor Fontane was already familiar with the park from his hikes. Because of its playfulness , he described it as somewhat “old Franconian” and with a “peculiar nature.” Today , only the waterfall and a water wheel remain of the historic landscape park.
Here’s what you can experience around the waterfall
To reach the Cöthen Waterfall, you can follow the almost 12-kilometer-long tower hiking trail. The path to the waterfall leads over steep paths and stairs to the waterfall. The hike is not that easy, because the region around Bad Freienwalde actually has quite a few hills to offer.
Nearby, an old wooden water wheel is a reminder of the former use of water power in the region. The small stone bridge directly above the cascades is also beautiful and perfect for a photo. And if you want to relax after the hike, you can visit the village of Cöthen. Located above the valley, you will find a charming estate village with a fieldstone church that regularly hosts artistic events.
