Müritz National Park

The Müritz National Park lies to the east of Lake Müritz, the largest and best known of the many lakes in Mecklenburg on the plain in north-eastern Germany. There are 660km of footpaths in total on which to explore this idyllic region of ancient beech forests, mysterious marshland and over 130 lakes.

Visitors to the national park can discover an environment created during the ice age which is now a breeding ground for rare and endangered large birds.

There are many footpaths and cycle trails offering a real sense of adventure and an opportunity to observe rare birds at close quarters, including the endangered sea eagle, "the king of birds", ospreys and cranes. In the eastern part of the national park near Serrahn, special observation towers make it possible to watch the wildlife even more closely. Swedish Fjällrinder cattle were introduced near Müritzhof in 1969 and Gotland sheep during the 1980s as part of a pioneering grazing project designed to protect and preserve endangered natural communities in central Europe.

Numerous cycle paths and guided walks organised regularly by the national park offer a wide choice of excursions.

Highlights:

• Heinrich Schliemann Museum in Ankershagen
• Waren with its old quarter and steamboat tours
• Pairs of osprey in Federow

Activities:
The area can be explored on foot, by bike or in a canoe. There are also boat services on Mecklenburg's many lakes - bikes can often be taken on board. The guided walks organised by the national park are also unforgettable experiences. Canoeing tours on the river Havel and the Alte Fahrt circuit through the varied countryside are always popular with visitors.