Lots of greenery, breathtaking views, and just some peace and quiet—sounds like the perfect getaway outside Berlin, doesn’t it? Fortunately, the observation towers around the capital offer exactly that. From nature-inspired towers in the middle of the forest to futuristic structures that have long been considered Berlin landmarks, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for nostalgic excursions like in the old days or prefer modern architecture, the selection is vast. Today we’re introducing you to one of our favorites from the nature observation deck category: The observation tower on Wehlaberg is one of the most beautiful vantage points in the Spreewald and Dahme Lake District and feels almost like a hidden observation tower in the middle of Brandenburg’s pine forest.
The observation tower stands on the 144.1-meter-high Wehlaberg, the highest peak of the Krausnick Mountains, near Krausnick-Groß Wasserburg. The current tower was built in 2003 and is about 28 meters high. A total of around 129 steps lead to the top. The mountain’s additional height creates one of the surprisingly most expansive views in Brandenburg. Once at the top, a panorama opens up over the endless forests of the Unterspreewald, the Krausnick Mountains, and the Heideseen lakes. Also particularly striking is the huge roof of Tropical Islands, which looks almost futuristic against the natural backdrop. On a clear day , the view even extends as far as the Berlin TV Tower, located about 58 kilometers away .
It is precisely this mix that makes the place so special: dense forest, tranquil lake landscapes, and suddenly a sweeping panoramic view over Brandenburg. Historically, the Wehlaberg was already a popular viewpoint in the 19th century. As early as 1896, a surveying tower was mentioned there as a lookout point. Several towers were built afterward, though some of them were later dismantled. The first tower had to be demolished due to dilapidation, and a later one was removed because it offered a view of a Soviet military base.
The observation tower is located in the heart of the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve and is particularly popular for hikes, bike rides, and peaceful nature excursions away from Berlin’s typical hotspots. The area attracts many visitors, especially in the fall, when the forests change color and the view takes on a particularly atmospheric quality. Sunsets are also among the highlights here. Several forest trails and hiking routes lead to the tower, including the European long-distance hiking trail E10 and the Gurkenradweg. Many combine a visit to the viewpoint with a hike around the Köthener Heideseen lakes.
