Steinhuder Meer conservation area

Steinhuder Meer is a park created by nature itself. Its central part is adorned by the lake of the same name, which is the largest in the north-western part of the German state. Its area is about 310 square metres. The area is bounded by Nienburg and Schaumburg, both in the region called Hannover.

Park virtues

Approximately 10% of the park area is protected as wildlife conservation area. Over 65% of the area is designated as protected landscape. The colourful lake covers an area of 30 square metres and is only 1.5 metres deep. The maximum depth is 3 metres.

The peculiarity of the lake is that many unique species of fauna reside there. There are also various species of water birds that find their temporary dwelling here. The lake is surrounded with meadows and swamps, as well as small forest areas. Various species of animals and plants live there as well.

The area is recreational and requires a certain amount of protection, so the locals have managed to regulate it. Therefore it is possible to go for a walk and organise excursions, but in such a way that the inhabitants would not be harmed. From time to time a large number of sailboats can be seen on the lake.

Features of the lake area

On the lake one can observe 2 islands which were artificially created. The first one is called Badeinsel which means “bathing island”. There are sandy beaches, some of which have been created by importing sand and some of which nature has created by herself. Supplies are made by means of solar energy. It is connected to the mainland by a bridge.

The second island is called Wilhelmstein. It got its name due to the fortress of the same name, which functioned in this area in the period from 1761 to 1765. In 1772, one of the famous German boats called “Steinhuder Hecht”, which literally translates as “Steinhuder Pike”, was built on this site.

The colourful lakeside area is surrounded by numerous establishments. There are a variety of coffee houses, bars and restaurants. The speciality is the locally caught smoked eel. If you’re not hungry, you can visit the Insect Museum or the Toy Museum.

Popularity of the nature park

The park gained popularity all over Europe during the Expo. In the process, it was presented by 4 exhibition complexes. The main one was the island of Badeninsel-Steinhude. It was presented as a place of ideal combination of civilization and natural area, where you can relax.

Also presented were the Steinhude barn complex, the Meerbuch bird nesting site and the Totes Moor near Neustadt am Rübenberg. All locations are kept in absolute good order all year round, which is why they are presented at exhibitions and receive well-deserved awards for meeting certain conditions.