Especially when it’s cold and uncomfortable outside and the wind is blowing through Berlin’s streets, a little homemade romance is all the more worthwhile. How about a trip to one of the most beautiful castles around Berlin? There you can experience history and culture and escape the hustle and bustle of the big city for a while. A visit to Peacock Island is therefore highly recommended.
Peacock Island in Berlin’s Havel River is a place full of contradictions: it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a strictly protected nature reserve, and a testament to Prussian romanticism. On this isolated island, there are no cars, no bicycles, no dogs, and no smoking areas. It is pure nature. There is a very special reason for this, which we will come back to in a moment.
The “fairytale castle” in ruin style
Photo: Shutterstock
The biggest attraction on Peacock Island is impossible to miss: the castle. It was built between 1794 and 1797 and is a prime example of Romantic garden architecture. This is particularly evident when viewed from the outside. The castle was deliberately designed to look like a ruined Roman villa or a medieval castle from a distance. In the late 18th century, it was considered modern to design castles with a “ruined look” to symbolize transience and melancholy.
Although the castle shines like white marble, the building is actually a timber-framed structure clad in wood. The white paint and carved plaster only give the illusion of noble stone. However, one area has been repaired. The two striking round towers are connected by a wrought-iron bridge, which was originally made of wood.
After extensive renovations, you can now visit this romantic castle— perfect for a Valentine’s Day outing or simply a fairytale day trip. The island itself is also worth a visit, especially in winter or late spring.
Hidden romances and free peacocks
Photo: Unsplash
King Frederick William II had the castle on Peacock Island built for himself and his long-time mistress, the later Countess Lichtenau. Here they could enjoy their love far away from the public eye (and the queen). This is also evident inside: the rooms in the castle are surprisingly small and cozy, as they were not intended for state visits but for private hours.
Isolation is part of the concept of Peacock Island and continues to this day. The island is located in the Havel River and is part of a nature reserve, which is why there is no bridge. If you want to visit Peacock Island, you have to take the passenger ferry, which will take you across in a few minutes.
And in addition to the castle and nature, you will of course also encounter the animals that gave the island its name: peacocks. Peacocks have lived on the island since 1795. They move completely freely among visitors, which is why dogs are not allowed on the island. The protection of the animals is a priority.