The best walks and hikes in Wanninchen

Wanninchen offers a wide selection of hiking opportunities, with over 100 trails to explore. These routes cater to various preferences, including 57 easy trails and 47 moderate options, ensuring there's something for every hiker.

The landscape in Wanninchen is unique, having been transformed from a former lignite mining area into a vibrant 'new wilderness.' You'll encounter expansive lakes like the Schlabendorfer See, unusual dunes, and newly flourishing forests, meadows, and heathlands. The terrain is generally varied but often features gentle elevations, making it accessible for many.

Yes, Wanninchen has numerous easy trails perfect for families and beginners. For instance, the Schlabendorfer See – View of the Mining Lake loop from Wanninchen is an easy 6.1 km path that offers scenic views of the lake and the surrounding post-mining terrain. There are 57 easy routes in total.

Many of the trails in Wanninchen are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Wanninchen Orchard Meadow loop from Wanninchen, a moderate 10.4 km trail that explores the rewilded landscape.

While hiking, you can discover several interesting features. The Schlabendorfer See is a prominent natural landmark, offering stunning panoramic views. You can also visit the Sielmann Nature Park Centre Wanninchen, which serves as a central hub with exhibitions and nature discovery zones. Another unique sight is the Bucket Wheel Excavator Buckets, a remnant of the region's mining past.

Absolutely. Wanninchen is an internationally important site for birdwatching, especially around the Schlabendorfer See, which is a vital resting place for numerous bird species. Thousands of cranes and wild geese are observed during their autumn migration, and whooper and mute swans are common in February. The rewilded area also provides habitats for rare species like sand martins, wolves, and hoopoes.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the hiking trails in Wanninchen. However, as it is a nature conservation area, it is important to keep dogs on a leash to protect the local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Wanninchen offers unique experiences throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the flourishing meadows and forests. Autumn is particularly spectacular for birdwatching, especially for cranes and wild geese. Even winter hikes can be rewarding, offering a serene experience of the unique landscape.

Parking is available at the Heinz Sielmann Nature Conservation Centre (Natur-Erlebniszentrum Wanninchen), which serves as an excellent starting point for many trails. This central location provides convenient access to the hiking network.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique rewilded landscape, the tranquility of the trails, and the opportunities for birdwatching and experiencing nature's reclamation of the former mining area.

While most trails are easy to moderate, Wanninchen does offer longer routes for those seeking more extensive exploration. The 31 km 'Wiedehopfweg' (Hoopoe Trail) provides an extensive route to explore the entire landscape, offering a more challenging and immersive experience.

Beyond hiking, cycling is also a popular outdoor pursuit in the area, utilizing the well-marked paths. The Heinz Sielmann Nature Conservation Centre also offers various nature discovery activities and exhibitions, providing educational insights into the region's unique habitats and history.