Wittmund: Mill, aviation history and forest

Wittmund offers several different themes to consider when planning a stay: mill history, aviation, forest trails, cycling routes and special experiences. If you are looking for a hotel, you can decide whether culture, outdoor activities or a hands-on experience should shape your stay.

City history between the mill, aviation and church

The Peldemühle was built in 1741 to mill barley, together with a residential building and a barn. It is considered the oldest single-storey gallery Dutch windmill in northwestern Germany. In the Peldemühle’s historic bakehouse, visitors can see how grain is processed from flour into bread—another insight into grain processing.

The pedestrian zone is home to the “Hands of Fame” promenade. It includes the unique “Bundespräsidentenplatz” (Federal President’s Square), inaugurated in 2010. The Robert von Zeppelin Aviation Museum is also located in the pedestrian zone; it opened in June 2015. Exhibits include aviation memorabilia, artworks by local artists and other objects. The museum explores Wittmund’s regional history, closely linked to aviation, and introduces young people in particular to the historic “Wittmundhafen” airfield.

Another historic building is the Evangelical Lutheran St. Nicolai Church, with its sandstone portal. It was consecrated as a hall church in 1776. The mill, museum and church offer different points of interest, from the processing of agricultural products to aviation and architectural history.

Forest, moor and castle park

Wittmund Forest covers more than 700 hectares and offers several hiking trails, as well as paths for woodland walks and bike rides. A circular forest moor lies within the forest and is considered a glacial pingo remnant. This natural feature has a viewing platform with a bench. The Wittmund Forest Nature Conservation Farm adds an educational dimension to the nature theme as an independently run institution focused on nature and environmental topics.

In Wittmund Castle Park, small, winding paths pass by bodies of water and benches. The site of Wittmund Castle, built in 1461, lies within the well-preserved ramparts. The park is used for events including music performances in summer. If you would like to plan your visit around a specific date, check the current program.

Cycling routes and experiences in Wittmund

Two different routes are worth considering when planning a bike ride: the fourth stage of the Tour de Fries passes through Wittmund and is signposted along the entire route with a blue, yellow and green logo. The Jan-Schüpp Fahrradpad runs in part along the Harle, the old shipping route between Carolinensiel and Wittmund. You can start or end your ride anywhere along this cycle path. Check current route conditions before setting out.

Jan Schüpp’s digital city tour of Wittmund includes six information stops about city life, past and present. If you plan to take this tour, check its digital availability beforehand if needed. The Hands of Fame e. V. association also offers guided walks through the Wittmunder Pudding.

A special hands-on experience is the Original East Frisian Abitur: since 1978, people of all ages have been able to take it in Wittmund. Participants must complete a total of nine exam disciplines in one day, including long-distance boßeln, Padstock jumping, cow milking and tea drinking. This experience is quite different from a traditional city tour.

Events, swimming and the weekly market

The Kulturring Wittmund concerts are usually held in the historic hall of the district administration building; event dates vary. Isums Leisure and Adventure Pool offers swimming and large water slides. There is also an opportunity to take a pedal boat ride on the Harle in connection with a visit to the pool. Check the current conditions for all the activities mentioned before visiting.

The weekly market in Wittmund’s market square offers fresh regional and non-regional products. As well as cultural and natural attractions, market visits and events are among the themes you can use to plan your stay.

Discover more destinations: Carolinensiel, Westerholt, Harlesiel, Utarp, Neuharlingersiel, Werdum, Esens, Wittmund, Nenndorf, Dunum, Ochtersum, Friedeburg, Holtgast, Eversmeer, Blomberg, Neuschoo, Holtriem.

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