Nestled between expansive lakes, tranquil moors, and dense forests, the Oder-Spree lake district offers ideal conditions for observing native and migratory bird species. For many years, the tourism association, together with its partners, has been intensively engaged with the topic of birdwatching and has developed specific observation areas and tours that make nature experiences accessible to both visitors and locals.
The experience week marks the highlight and also the start of the birdwatching season in the region. It will be opened with the international Bird Race, in which also the Seenland-Spöker Team starts.
Afterwards, visitors can expect a diverse program: Guided excursions, themed hikes, exciting insights into habitats, as well as offers for beginners and experienced birdwatchers make the fascination of the bird world tangible.
The week of action is supported by a strong network of Nature parks and nature wardens, certified nature and landscape guides, hotels, restaurants, and nature conservation and educational institutions.
Program excerpt of the action week:
- 2. May"Tour to the Kleiner Schwarzberg" starting at Landhaus Alwine in Raßmannsdorf
- 3. MayBird safari on Lake Glubigsee, starting at the fish house in Wendisch Rietz
- 4. MayBirdwatching excursion with the ranger in the Schlaubetal Nature Park
- 6. MayWaterfowl tour to the Kossenblatt Lakes
- 7. May"Children's Bird Day" at the Drei Eichen Environmental Center in Buckow
- 9. MayBirdsong tour with the Heinz Sielmann Foundation in Groß Schauen
- 9. May: Bird Action Day at the House of Nature Conservation in Bad Freienwalde
- 10. May: Hike “All the birds are already here” starting at the Lange Haus in Altfriedland
Registration is required or recommended for most of the activities. Detailed information can be found on the website of the Oder-Spree Lakes Region Tourism Association: Birdwatching Experience Week 2026
Spring offers ideal conditions for observing birds, and the water-rich Oder-Spree lake district boasts some true hotspots for this: Güstebieser Loose in the Oderbruch region, Buckow in the Märkische Schweiz, Philadelphia near Storkow, and Henzendorf near Neuzelle, to name just a few of the observation areas designated by the Oder-Spree lake district. At the respective locations, marked on the map, you'll find so-called ornithological QR codes on observation towers, boardwalks, benches, or information signs.
These can be scanned with a smartphone to display a list of bird species recently observed at that location. From boardwalks along the shore, observation platforms, or lookout towers, bitterns, common terns, red kites, ospreys, and other birds can be easily spotted with binoculars, and often even with the naked eye. Combined with a bike ride or hike and a picnic, it makes for a perfect outing.
The website provides detailed information on observation areas, bird species, tour suggestions, special accommodation tips, and event information on the topic: Birdwatching in the Oder-Spree Lake District
As a tourism region, the Oder-Spree lake district not only wants to inspire, but also to invite people to experience nature mindfully and discover its diversity.