From the mid-20th century through the late 20th century, the town and Collective Municipality of Büchen was located on what was known as the Innerdeutsche Grenze, or Inner German Border, separating East and West Germany. (A stop over to the Local History Museum has information on Germany’s former “Inner Border”.)
Today the separation is gone, making Büchen easily accessible for everyone from any federal state in the country.
That’s good, because everyone deserves a chance to enjoy the town along the Elbe-Lübeck Canal. Water is an important “attraction” here in Büchen, with quite a few of its villages along the Naturpark Lauenburgische Seen, or Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park.
Take Besenthal, for example, it lies along the Lauenburg Lakes, and more than a quarter of the place is totally forested. You know that means Besenthal is perfect for hiking under the canopy of tall trees, as well as enjoying the relaxing properties of its water.
Güster is also along the Lauenburg Lakes, a town that’s been around since 777 A.D. — making it more than 1200 years old. If I could live that long, I’d make sure to spend a few decades living here, that’s for sure.
That way I know I’d have all the time in the world to take in a few performances of Low German theater in the village of Müssen, as well as swim the days away at its swimming areas. And I’d have time to shop at the Antique Fair and Christmas Market; and drink at a few of the local taverns in Roseburg. And the town is often the host for concerts during the Schleswig Holstein Music Festival.
With a few decades to kill in Büchen, it would leave time to party at May Day Celebrations, drink at the Wine Festival, and enjoy the outdoor concerts at the outdoor pool, known as “Rock the Pool.”
As you’re wandering around going from place to place, keep your eyes peeled for the Kunst- und Kulturlehrpfad, or Art & Culture Trail; and you’re bound to find a cycle path that’ll have you marveling at the wonders of nature.
When you’re tired, rest up at one of Büchen’s many campsites, Bed & Breakfasts, or guesthouses.
Then again, if you’re gonna spend a few decades, you might want to consider something more permanent. ;-)
