Reitwein between the Oderbruch and history

Reitwein lies at the foot of the wooded Reitwein Spur, a ridge that extends into the Oderbruch. The Stüler Church is part of the town’s setting: its tall red-brick tower stands on the green hillside and is considered a landmark of the southern Oderbruch. The spur, hillside and church tower provide two readily identifiable points of reference for the town—one for its landscape and one for its architectural history.

Hiking and views

Reitwein’s hiking trails are considered well signposted; information boards and benches add to the visitor amenities. The markers and boards help with navigation, while the benches offer a place to take a break. A detour to the Reitwein Spur offers panoramic views of the Oder Valley and Reitwein’s Stüler Church.

Exploring by bike

Cyclists can also place Reitwein on two different routes. A 50-kilometre stage of the Oder-Neiße Cycle Route runs from Frankfurt (Oder) to Küstrin-Kietz and passes through Reitwein. The “Lebuser Land and Reitwein Spur” e-bike tour also passes through the town. The Oder-Neiße stage—with its distance and two endpoints—offers a concrete point of reference for planning a route; the e-bike tour focuses on Lebuser Land and the Reitwein Spur. Route conditions can change, so it is worth checking the latest trail information before setting out.

Reitwein’s visitor amenities include bicycle rental, bicycle parking and a bus connection. Check the latest information about these services and the route before planning your arrival or tour around them.

History in Reitwein

The landowner Joachim Erdmann von Burgsdorff had Reitwein Castle built in the early 1670s. After the Battle of Kunersdorf in 1759, King Frederick II spent the first decisive days at Reitwein Castle. The history of the building’s patron in the 17th century and a specific chapter in the history of events therefore converge at the same place.

At the former castle site, a hornbeam hedge traces the outline of the destroyed building. Information boards cover Reitwein and the destroyed structure.

Earth bunkers and trenches remain at the summit of the Reitwein Spur. The Reitwein Spur is a protected historic monument. The Diplomat’s Staircase was built in 1984 so that ambassadors from 40 diplomatic missions could climb the Oder dike. Military traces and an occasion shaped by diplomacy thus stand side by side as distinct historical themes.

Crafts from Reitwein

Reitwein meadow ceramics feature patterns inspired by wild plants from Reitwein. Unlike the traces on the spur and at the former castle, the focus here is on a local craft: the ceramics are available to view and buy.

Märkisch-Oderland: nature and culture

Märkisch-Oderland offers other distinct nature and cultural activities. In Märkische Schweiz, visitors can explore the 17-kilometre Natura Trail and the certified Märkische Schweiz Nature Park Route, which is just under 21 kilometres long; check current route conditions before setting out. In Buckow, the Brecht-Weigel House has been a museum since 1977. The literary museum hosts readings, concerts, talks, discussions, films, exhibitions and special guided tours throughout the year; individual offerings vary.

Discover more destinations: Neulewin, Werder, Altlandsberg, Garzau-Garzin, Fichtenhöhe, Sietzing, Buchholz, Lindendorf

Go to the regional travel overview: Märkisch-Oderland.