The Altes Land along the Elbe - near Hamburg of course

The Altes Land along the Elbe presents itself as home to one of a kind diversity. Thanks to its orchards and protected areas along the Elbe and high moor, it's also a land for outdoor fans. Expansive, free land, forests and the re-occurring Elbe beach invite one to relax and enjoy. The region follows the Elbe on course to the estuary for nearly 100 kilometres. Two Hanseatic cities boasting a long history and numerous attractive localities in the midst of this diverse landscape invite one to stay of while.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p>

In the AltesLand along the Elbe, there's always something to discover at all times of the year. The annual spring flowering of the fruit trees is a natural spectacle of the superlative that transforms the region into an authentic sea of flowers. The orchard tradition in the AltesLand with its enchanting wood-timbered architecture enjoys over 600 years of tradition.

In the summer, the Elbe attracts tourists for excursions along and on the water. Bike tours are accented by the maritime spirit: Museum of coastal trade, old harbours, sluices, lighthouses and historical ships speak of a time, when boats and waterways were more reliable and important than the streets and paths in the land.

Above all, fall means harvest time. There's a lot to do, when the apples on over 10 million trees ripen. During Apple Days in the AltesLand, visitors have the chance to have a look behind the scenes of the orchard operations.

Buxtehude and Stade, both former Hanseatic cities, fascinate with their charmingly restored downtowns. The best way to get to know their intricate history is in a tour. Exceptional museums and galleries tempt not only cultural fans to extend their visit.

Vogelkieker, Tidenkieker and Moorkieker (bird-watching, tidal and moor sightseeing) excursions represent first class natural experiences. But there are many more reasons to enjoy a long visit to the intriguing landscape nestled between the Elbe, marshland and moors.

The possibilities for bike tours are ideal. The conveniently flat landscape as well as the multiplicity of low-traffic routes and over 1000 km of well marked cycling paths make bike tours with us a real pleasure - also for the less experienced and for those not entirely familiar with the area!

Tourimsmusverband Landkreis Stade/ Elbe e.V.

Facts & Figures, Landkreis Stade

Location:

Tyskland

Author name, year:

Bergner 2007

Regional information

Cycling

Environment