Ein Stück Usedom für zu Hause
Do you understand Low German? Are you familiar with the Low German word “achtern,” which means “behind”? That’s why “Achterland” refers to the vast land behind the Baltic Sea. Glaciers from the most recent Ice Age piled up veritable mountains in the south of the island, which is why the islanders proudly refer to the hilly landscape as “Usedom Switzerland.” Admittedly, the mountains aren’t quite as high as those of our Alpine neighbors.
Are you looking for a change of pace from the bustling beach life in the Baltic Sea resorts? In “Usedom Switzerland,” you’ll find peaceful tranquility amid picturesque rolling hills, idyllic lakes, and dreamy villages. The towns of Benz, Neppermin, and Mellenthin have a special charm. They also appealed to the world-famous artist Lyonel Feininger, who visited the island repeatedly between 1908 and 1912. Perhaps you’ll discover the so-called “Mörderhus” from the Usedom crime novel in Morgenitz?
The idyllic village of Benz is located in the heart of Usedomer Schweiz. Visit St. Petri Church and gaze up at the sparkling starry sky depicted on the wooden coffered ceiling. Afterward, take a walk up Mühlenberg to the Dutch windmill. Those with an appreciation for fine crafts and exquisite art should pay a visit to the Werth Gallery.
The castle avenue, lined with old trees and former farm buildings, leads directly to Mellenthin Moated Castle. Built in 1575, this Renaissance structure was the seat of the von Neuenkirchen noble family. Today, these venerable walls welcome you as a hotel and restaurant.
The best way to explore Usedomer Schweiz is on hikes and bike rides. Take a break at the “Sieben-Seen-Blick” observation towers in Neu-Sallenthin and on the Kückelsberg. The two windmills in Benz and Pudagla are also lovely places to visit. As you drive down the cobblestone avenue into the village of Mellenthin, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time: the village, centered around the moated castle, was once a manor estate. Rent a pedalboat at Lake Wolgast or board the sailing schooner Weissen Düne in Neppermin.
Cycle through “Usedom Switzerland” in the footsteps of the famous German-American artist Lyonel Feininger. The Feininger bike tour connects the scenes that Feininger sketched over a hundred years ago during his stays on Usedom.
Did you know that the Benz Church Summer Festival was first launched back in 1968? Ever since then, its high-quality program of concerts, readings, and lectures has delighted islanders and vacationers alike. The pottery market in Morgenitz and the mill festivals in Benz and Pudagla are also wonderful opportunities for day trips.
Do you enjoy down-to-earth, authentic cuisine? At the Bauernstube Morgenitz, you can savor freshly caught fish straight from the fisherman, prepared just like in grandma’s day. Fish served with a stunning view of the Achterwasser is available at the Fischpalast in Neppermin. At the Wasserschloss Mellenthin, you can choose from the à la carte menu or help yourself to the lavish buffet during the “Knight’s Evenings” or “Brewery Evenings.” Do you prefer Italian cuisine? Then the Cucina Italiana – Alte Schule in Balm is the place for you. In the summer, the garden cafés Alte Feuerwehr in Benz, Tante Wally in Neppermin, and the Holländerwindmühle in Benz will treat you to homemade cakes.
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