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Spree (Brandenburg)
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The Spree is the most significant river in the state of Brandenburg, profoundly shaping the region's landscape and culture. With a total length of approximately 400 kilometers, it originates in the Lusatian Highlands and flows through the UNESCO Spreewald Biosphere Reserve on its way to Berlin. This section is globally unique for its intricate network of over 300 small waterways, known as 'Fließe,' which are traditionally navigated by punts. For centuries, the Spree has served as a vital transport route and energy source, facilitating the growth of cities like Cottbus and Fürstenwalde. In its lower reaches, it feeds Lake Müggelsee before finally merging with the Havel river in Berlin-Spandau. Ecologically, the river's floodplains are of high importance, while it simultaneously provides drinking water and recreational space for millions. Canals connect the Spree to both the Oder and Elbe rivers.
- Location: Brandenburg, Germany
- Nearby: Lübben (Spreewald) (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 0 | 4 | 9 | 14 | 19 | 21 | 20 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 52 | 36 | 40 | 29 | 54 | 56 | 81 | 60 | 48 | 47 | 50 | 46 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The Spreewald in Brandenburg is usually explored via towns like Lübbenau or Burg as central starting points. These towns are easily accessible by regional trains or car from the Berlin area.
Best season
The peak season for punt rides and paddling generally extends from mid-spring to late autumn. In the summer, the dense forest canopy often provides a welcome and cooling shelter from the hot sun.
Terrain & paths
The extensive waterway network is good for small boats, while the bank paths are mostly flat and well signposted. The ground near the forest can, however, be somewhat soft and slippery after rain.
What to bring
Mosquito repellent and water-resistant clothing are often essential for excursions into this water-rich landscape. For boat trips, a dry storage option for your valuables is highly recommended.
Parking
At the central departure points for the punts, there are usually designated large car parks for visitors. On busy excursion days, however, you should allow plenty of time to find a parking space.
Safety
The watercourses are mostly shallow and calm, which generally makes them very safe for water hikers. Nevertheless, you should always stick to the marked routes so as not to get lost in the labyrinth.
Time needed
Typical punt rides last between two and four hours, depending on the chosen route. A full day trip is highly recommended to let the unique landscape take effect without any kind of time pressure.
Geography
Facts
- Total length of 400 km, with about 180 km within Brandenburg.
- Spreewald was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1991.
- The river has three distinct sources in Saxony.
- Total drainage basin covers 10,105 square kilometers.
- The Oder-Spree Canal has connected the river to the Oder since 1891.
- Average discharge at Berlin is approximately 36 cubic meters per second.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Spree (Brandenburg) (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Spree rise?
The Spree has three sources in Upper Lusatia (Saxony) before flowing through Brandenburg to Berlin.
Can you go boating on the Spree?
Especially in the Spreewald, punt boat trips and canoe tours on the branched channels are world-famous.
Is there a cycle path along the Spree?
Yes, the Spree Cycle Path runs for over 400 km from the sources to the confluence with the Havel in Berlin.
Which animals live along the Spree?
Beavers, otters, kingfishers, and numerous white storks live in the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve.
Does the Spree flow through the Spreewald?
Yes, in the Spreewald, the river divides into hundreds of small channels called 'Fließe'.
Spree (Brandenburg): where is it located?
Spree (Brandenburg) is located in Brandenburg, Germany.
Spree (Brandenburg): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Spree (Brandenburg): why is it worth visiting?
The Spree is the most significant river in the state of Brandenburg, profoundly shaping the region's landscape and culture.
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