Start / Finish: Wendisch Rietz train station
Length / Duration: 13 kilometers / about 3 hours
Course: Wendisch Rietz, over the Scharmützelsee, Glubig-Melang-Fließ, Großer Glubigsee, Springsee, Großer Glubigsee, Kleiner Glubigsee, Glubig-Melang-Fließ, over the Scharmützelsee, Wendisch Rietz
water profile: very natural, crystal clear water
Note: motorboat-free
Arrival / Departure:
- RB24 or S-Bahn to Königs-Wusterhausen, then RB36 to Wendisch Rietz. Return journey in the opposite direction.
In the Dahme-Heideseen Nature Park
At the southern end of the Scharmützelsee begins a beautiful but very rarely used chain of lakes. Even in summer, deserted and closed to motorboats, the small and large Glubigsee and the Springsee offer pure relaxation and a unique natural experience. The Glubigseen chain with a total of 5 lakes was formed from a glacial meltwater channel. The Scharmützelsee, also known as the Märkisches Meer, is also part of the chain of lakes and is the starting point for the late riser paddling tour in the Dahme-Heideseen Nature Park.
Directions
Start in Wendisch Rietz
To give your legs something to do, we start with a short, half-hour hike. After arriving in Wendisch Rietz by regional train, you walk through the seaside resort, which is particularly popular with families, to the lake promenade. At Surf & Fun you can get the right boats and finally set sail. The first stage leads across the Scharmützelsee to its southern end, where the transition to the Glubigsee follows.
The automatic lock is currently out of service, but a short crossing over a few steps and a few meters of meadow is easily possible.
Through the enchanted Glubig-Melang-Fliess
The connecting channels between the lakes are particularly beautiful. You are immediately greeted by the beautiful water lilies, which can be seen in impressive numbers on this tour. You should stop here and take a closer look: reed warblers and various dragonfly species like to rest on the water lilies, which are in full bloom especially in June and July. An impressive sight. Grey herons stand motionless on the banks and with a bit of luck you can see a marsh harrier in the trees. Swimming grass snakes can also be seen. Further down, small perch frolic, pike lurk in the weeds, and there are crabs near the banks, a sign of the good water quality.
The Great Glubigsee, which now lies before us, is surrounded by pine and deciduous forests, with a few dachas and jetties here and there. Everything is absolutely quiet, no motorboats, no waves, only the light wind ripples the water here and there.
Springsee
Further along the stream you reach the particularly clear Springsee. Local divers appreciate the good underwater visibility. The lake is fed by two springs, among others, whose tributaries are located on the eastern shore. The springs are official natural monuments and can be visited.
On the lonely, hilly western shore of the Springsee, however, forest lovers can discover special North American tree species that were planted for experimental purposes in the 1960s. The solitude was also welcome for other purposes in the past: During the GDR era, this side of the lake was home to a secret facility of the GDR State Security, where members of terrorist groups received military training. Today it is a restricted area for the German armed forces.
Halfway along the south bank, you can take a break at the natural campsite. A snack bar and a lovely bathing area invite you to linger.
Greetings from Scandinavia
Back at the lock, we recommend a short stop at the small Glubigsee. The idyllic fish house is located on the tip of a small peninsula. You can moor directly in front of the thatched house and enjoy delicious fish dishes on the terrace or take a fish sandwich with you.
If you still have time, you should take a detour to the port of Wendisch Rietz after the portage. The many red wooden huts on the shore convey a maritime, Scandinavian flair.
For planning:
- The canoe rental surf & fun in Wendisch Rietz rents out single and double+child+kayaks or Canadian canoes for up to 1 people.
- Be sure to reserve in advance by phone or email!
- Don’t forget sunscreen and mosquito repellent!
- Please always respect nature and follow the recommendations.
Refreshment tips:
- Wendisch Rietz settlement: fish house
- Wendisch Rietz: Atelier Café
- Springsee: Snack at the forest restaurant "Zur Quelle"
