Best attractions and places to see around Bad Saarow, a spa town in Brandenburg, Germany, is known for its thermal springs and location on the Scharmützelsee, the largest lake in Brandenburg. The region offers a mix of natural landscapes, historical sites, and wellness facilities. Visitors can explore expansive lakes, wooded hills, and architectural heritage from the Wilhelminian era. The area provides opportunities for nature exploration and cultural interest.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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If you visit Storkow (Mark) Castle, you'll find the Visitor Center (BIZ) of the Dahme-Heideseen Nature Park. In the exhibition, you can discover the natural and cultural history of the region on three levels – the tour begins with the Ice Age and continues to the present day. Historical illustrations and maps await you on the top floor, giving you an insight into the castle's origins. The event series "You and Your Garden in the Nature Park" is particularly exciting, where experienced instructors show you how to care for your garden, make medicinal herbal ointments, or learn more about the garden's animal inhabitants. The staff at the tourist information center have many tips for excursions and discovery tours for you – whether you're traveling alone, with friends, or with family. You can find more information and opening hours here: https://www.dahme-heideseen-naturpark.de/erleben-lernen/info-ausstellung/besucherzentrum-burg-storkow.
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Very nice. Every Spreewald cycle path rider takes photos here. Including selfies 🥰👍
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The lock, which has existed since 1865, was renovated in 1965 with concrete chamber walls and automated in 2004. The lock is activated using the request levers at the waiting points in the respective outer harbor. During operation in the summer months, up to 10,000 pleasure boats are on the move here. It is one of three locks that must be overcome on the way from Berlin to Scharmützelsee.
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The Burgstübchen is recommended for a stay with a café and cake.
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Some small boats can always be seen at the locks.
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A great spectacle ... the locks
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The region is rich in natural beauty, centered around Lake Scharmützelsee, often called the "Märkisches Meer." You can enjoy water activities, cycling paths, and hiking trails along its shores. Other natural highlights include the wooded Dubrower Berge for hiking and cycling, the Rauener Berge observation tower offering panoramic views, and the tranquil Spa Gardens (Kurpark).
Yes, Bad Saarow offers several historical and cultural points of interest. You can visit the Burg Storkow Visitor Center, a castle with origins dating back to the 12th century, which now houses an exhibition on regional history. The Flutbrücke Kersdorf over the Oder-Spree Canal is a historical wooden bridge offering scenic views, and the nearby Kersdorf Lock showcases interesting engineering with its old and new lock chambers. The town also features Wilhelminian era architecture and the Brecht-Weg, a walking trail dedicated to Bertolt Brecht.
Bad Saarow is ideal for various outdoor activities. Besides water sports on Lake Scharmützelsee like sailing and swimming, you can explore numerous cycling and hiking trails. For specific routes, check out the gravel biking routes, running trails, and MTB trails around Bad Saarow.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy the Arbora Climbing Forest, which offers zip-lining and physical challenges. The Scharmützelbob Adventure Park features an Alpine Coaster, playgrounds, climbing courses, and bouncy castles. Many highlights, such as Lake Scharmützelsee and Burg Storkow Visitor Center, are also marked as family-friendly.
As a traditional spa town, Bad Saarow is renowned for its healing thermal springs and mineral-rich mud. The SaarowTherme Thermal Baths are a main attraction, offering a range of pools at different temperatures, various saunas (including unique cinema and bread-baking saunas), and wellness treatments like mud baths and massages.
For expansive views, head to the Rauener Berge observation tower, which provides extensive vistas over forests, Lake Scharmützelsee, and even as far as Berlin. Scenic views can also be enjoyed from the Flutbrücke Kersdorf over the Oder-Spree Canal and along the shores of Lake Scharmützelsee itself.
Visitors frequently praise the relaxing atmosphere and natural beauty, especially around Lake Scharmützelsee, often calling it a "holiday and leisure paradise." The cycling paths along the lake are highly appreciated for their scenic photo opportunities. The historical bridges and locks, like Flutbrücke Kersdorf and Wendisch Rietz Lock, are also noted for their interesting structures and views.
Bad Saarow's history as a health resort has left a legacy of impressive architecture. You can find many Wilhelminian era villas and unique 1920s styles. The Kurhaus, a spa hotel from 1911, is a notable example. The renovated Historic Train Station also offers a glimpse into Wilhelminian era architecture.
The Scharmützelsee is the largest lake in Brandenburg and a central attraction. It's a popular spot for swimming, sailing, diving, fishing, surfing, and rowing. The surrounding area features well-developed cycling paths and numerous hiking trails through forests and along the shoreline. Sunset and moonlight sailing trips are also available for a unique experience.
Yes, the Bad Saarow Golf Club is set amidst scenic landscapes and boasts three award-winning 18-hole courses. These courses were designed by renowned golfers like Nick Faldo, offering a premium experience for golf enthusiasts.
The Brunnskulptur "Lebensfreude" (Fountain Sculpture "Joy of Life") is a fountain by Hans Eickworth. It depicts slender, unclothed young people holding a bowl from which water flows, symbolizing the joy of life. It is conveniently located in front of the historic train station, welcoming visitors to Bad Saarow.
Yes, the region features several interesting locks along the Oder-Spree Canal. The Kersdorf Lock is one of four on the canal, featuring both old and new lock chambers. Further along, the Wendisch Rietz Lock, which has existed since 1865, is now a self-service lock popular with pleasure boats during the summer months.


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