Things to Do in Schleswig

The northernmost part of Germany’s Baltic coast, the historic region of Schleswig, reflects through its attractions the centuries-old ties and conflicts between Danish and German culture. Today, Schleswig is a cross-border Baltic Sea region with numerous cultural monuments.

Danevirke Museum
The Danevirke, an approximately 30-kilometre-long earthwork fortification built to defend against the Frankish Empire, was constructed by Danish kings in the 8th century. The complex even included a naval barrier in the Schlei inlet. Built from bricks in the 12th century under King Valdemar, in addition to the earth and timber rampart, the Valdemar Wall completed the medieval structure. Remains of it can still be seen today near the Danevirke Museum. Models and historical pictures at the museum illustrate the structure’s former importance.

Busdorf Runestone
In Busdorf stands the approximately 1,000-year-old Skarthi Stone, a runestone inscribed with Old Danish characters. It was erected by the Danish king Sweyn Forkbeard in memory of his slain retainer Skarthi, and is the only surviving find of its kind. A copy now stands in its place. The precious original can be seen at the Haithabu Museum.

Hüttener Berge Nature Park
This nature park, rich in forests and lakes, lies between Schleswig, Eckernförde and Rendsburg and is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and hikers. The highest point, and the place to enjoy a magnificent view, is the 98-metre-high Aschberg, crowned by a seven-metre-tall Bismarck monument.

Gettorf Zoo
This small zoo near Eckernförde is home to several groups of monkeys, as well as numerous zebras, antelopes, deer and alpacas. Tropical birds and other exotic species can be admired in the aviary. There is a petting zoo for younger visitors.

Tolk-Schau Family Amusement Park
This small but charming family park in Tolk, near Schleswig, promises a fun-filled day even without spectacular rides. Attractions include wobble bikes, a giant trampoline, a caterpillar ride, carousels, a Hollywood swing, rowing and swan boats, a roller coaster, the Luna Loop, a fairy-tale forest and a goat enclosure. A stroll through the Valley of the Dinosaurs is especially worthwhile, where life-size models of prehistoric giants have been recreated. Barbecue shelters are available on the grounds and can be reserved.

Mini-Born Park in Owschlag
At the Mini Born miniature park, numerous well-known buildings have been recreated at a scale of 1:25. Lübeck’s Holsten Gate and Munich’s Frauenkirche are represented, as are the railway bridge over the Kiel Canal and the Statue of Liberty in New York. More than 100 exhibits invite visitors to marvel.