If Berlin’s food spots and weekend activities are starting to lose their novelty, it’s sometimes worth venturing a bit further out of the city. About 1.5 hours away, a natural landscape awaits that is more reminiscent of Scandinavia than of northern Germany. Nestled among dense forests, crystal-clear lakes, and small hidden shoreslies the 199-square-kilometer Feldberg Lake District, home to over 1,000 species of wild plants and an exceptionally turquoise glacial lake.
The region is particularly well-known for its numerous glacial lakes, which were formed during the last glacial movements. One of the most spectacular among them is the so-called Schmale Luzin. On sunny days, this elongated glacial lake appears almost turquoise or emerald green because the water is exceptionally clear and the lake reaches depths of more than 30 meters in places. It is precisely this almost Mediterranean hue that regularly leaves visitors struggling to believe they are still in Germany.
Another real highlight of the area is the historic Luzin Ferry— a small, nostalgic passenger ferry that glides leisurely across the Schmaler Luzin and remains part of the regional hiking trails to this day. As you glide slowly across the sparkling water, the landscape feels more like Sweden or Finland than a classic swimming lake near Berlin.
In addition to the lakes, the region is characterized by ancient beech forests, rolling hills, hidden natural swimming spots, and small villages . Especially in summer, the Feldberg Lake District is perfect for hiking, kayaking, swimming, or simply for a quiet getaway far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
