Süderhöft between marsh and geest

Süderhöft lies between marsh and geest. A bridge over the Treene leads into the Stapelholm landscape. Across the wider Eider-Treene-Sorge area, broad low-lying grasslands, moors, reed beds, wet meadows and shallow lakes shape the landscape. This natural environment is home to many rare animal and plant species adapted to wetlands. The Treene is also part of this landscape: farther downstream, it flows through diked marshland and can be up to 25 metres wide.

The Treene and canoe trips

A canoe trip follows the Treene through Hollingstedt and Fresendelf. Those wishing to extend the trip can continue paddling beyond Süderhöft. Nearby Stapel has canoe landing places on both the Eider and the Treene. The Eider-Treene-Sorge canoe area also has numerous rest stops and clear tourist signage. The Treene is considered a family-friendly paddling river.

Motorboats are subject to a clear geographical restriction: They are permitted on the Treene only between Friedrichstadt and the old NATO bridge at Süderhöft on the K56. Bear this restriction in mind when planning and check the local information before your trip.

Hiking and trails through Stapelholm

The Stapelholmer Weg is a hiking trail approximately 100 kilometres long. It follows the Treene through small villages and culturally significant places. This makes it different from a canoe trip: Rather than experiencing the river landscape from the water, the hiking route passes through villages and along the river. Nearby Stapelholm also offers cyclists and nature lovers an extensive network of paths through wet meadows and gently rolling hills.

Churches, nature and history nearby

In nearby Schwabstedt, St. Jakobi opens its richly decorated nave to visitors during the day. The church houses an intricately carved altar dating from the 16th century. Storks nest on the church roof and can be watched at close range. Also in Schwabstedt, the Treenebad offers swimming in the Treene; check the current local conditions before your visit.

Nearby Süderstapel’s St. Katharinen Church dates back to the 12th century. The church and its tower are visible from the river, even from a considerable distance. The natural beach has sports facilities, fishing opportunities and a children’s playground. Süderstapel also has two harbours for cruising yachts.

A megalithic tomb from the Neolithic period near Schwabstedt points to people who lived in the area around 5,000 years ago. Another historical tale belongs to local tradition: Meye Muhl is said to have been burned as the “Witch of Süderhöft” in Schwabstedt in 1619. The account is presented as a story passed down through tradition.

Choose the focus of your trip

When planning your trip, you can choose between the river landscape and paddling, hiking and cycling trails, or churches and historical tales. If you are looking for a hotel for your trip, it helps to first decide which of these aspects of the surrounding area interests you most. For specific excursions, check local information about visitor access and facilities.

Discover more destinations: Lütjenholm, Tinningstedt, Osterhever, Goldebek, Sprakebüll, Vollerwiek, Ahrenshöft, Leck.

Go to the main travel overview: Nordfriesland.