Barmstedt is a small town with a large heart and plenty to see and do. So don’t hang around in your room, the unpacking can wait.
Head first for the Barmstedt Castle Island on the Lake Rantzauer and get your fill of the medieval castle in all its glory. You’ll be interested to know this is an artificial lake fed by the Krückau River which winds its way through the town.
As you’ll soon see there are more architectural delights on this island such as the Mansion, the County Court and the Castle Prison. The last two have turned over a new leaf and become the Museum and a café. Imagine the prospect of eating prison food! Well, that’s on the menu at this Prison Café if you’re interested.
Don’t miss the water mill on the lake and, for your information, it’s not just a dummy exhibit, it’s still in working order.
The Rhododendron Park is in the vicinity and what they have here is recreation unlimited. You’ll love Bathing Bliss with its gigantic pool, boating, and splashing opportunities. And the minigolf is certainly going to be on top of the list of things to do if you’re traveling with kids.
Barmstedt has plenty of historic architectural styles on show and you’ll love them all. The Holy Spirit Church is a splendid Baroque beauty dating back to the 18th century. The painted ceiling will surely inspire you as will the organ. If you’re not a churchgoer you could still catch a concert here. The ambience is terrific.
Barmstedt’s vibrant cultural scene usually has some spell binding stuff going on. If you’re in town for the historical and medieval market event count yourself really fortunate. This is not something you come across everywhere. It’s like being transported back to the 19th century when craftsmen and farmers from that period come alive and replicate a historical market for you. The jugglers, musicians, and magicians add to the excitement. It’s really starting to look as if folks back then had heaps more fun than we ever imagined.
If you can’t make it for this, it’s OK, there’s also the Spring Festival, the Arts and Crafts market, Maypole, Kids Fest, and the obligatory Christmas Market.
