Kyritz-Ruppin heath

The Kyritz-Ruppin heath is one of the biggest interconnected heath areas in Europe. It was used as a bomb release area by Russian troops until 1993. After they left, Germany took over the space for its own military practices until countless protests lead the German military to abandon the area in 2009.

Today the area is characterized by the heath which is interspersed with pines and birch trees. Grasses, moss and lichens have the best living conditions here. Additionally, the heath is home to countless endangered and protected animal species: over 70 different kinds of birds live there such as the hoopoe and the white-tailed eagle. The wolf is endemic to the heath as well since 2008. Therefore, the heath is not only worth a visit in August and September considering its serenity, vast and natural diversity awe during other seasons, too.

Tipp: Mit dem Fatbike durch die Heide

Die Kyritz-Ruppiner Heide bei einem Ausflug mit dem Fahrrad zu entdecken, nimmt für gewöhnlich auf unbefestigten Wegen, oftmals mit Zuckersand, ein schnelles Ende. Mit dem Elektromotor unterstützte Räder mit besonders breiten Reifen ist das Fahren in der wunderbaren Natur nicht nur problemlos, sondern bringt auch noch Spaß. So lässt sich die Tier- und Pflanzenwelt behutsam erkunden und ohne Strapazen erleben. Die sogenannten E-Fatbikes gibt es donnerstags zwischen 14 – 20 Uhr sowie freitags bis sonntags von 8 – 20 Uhr und unter Reservierung bei:

If you don't want to explore the heath by yourself, you can turn to the certified nature guides who offer a variety of options. Guided tours through the heath area as well as star gazing nights take place all through August and September. However, the guides are open for individual requests all year round.

Find more information on the heath on the website of the Heinz Sielmann foundation: