You’d think being this far north in Lower Saxony that Drochtersen would have an East Frisian feel. In a way, you’d be right. Drochtersen does have that “port” city feel like so many there, but it’s still part of the beer and coffee drinking society like the rest of the country (East Frisians LOVE their tea).
Drochtersen, a town only about 45 km northeast of Hamburg, doesn’t have too many old buildings or museums to visit. But, it does have some pretty awesome countryside; perfect for boat rides along the river, long walks, or bicycle rides. Most of the countryside is a nature protected area making it perfect for seeing local wildlife.
While you’re out and about in Drochtersen you’ll notice is the old Schrotturm or Pellet Tower (it’s so big at 42 meters high — it’ll be hard to miss); once used to make well, pellets. The tower still stands, but it’s now abandoned.
Over by Drochtersen’s Town Church (did you really think this place WOULDN’T have one?) is the town’s local history museum. It got exhibits on daily life from a times long gone. Being so close to the North Sea, you’ll learn about how fishing and the water contributed to the town’s economy.
Spring is probably the best time to visit — it’s when over 10,000 partyers converge on this little hamlet for the Ascension Day Weekend Celebration (approx 40 days after Easter). Spring also brings on the Crocus Bloom Celebration when the town really comes alive with color.
Summer’s not without anything in Drochtersen, place a bet during one of the many horse races and eat a local specialty at the City Celebration.
However, winter has got to have one of the most interesting of festivals. Well, not a festival per se, but every New Year’s Eve residents meet by the dozens for the annual 10km run.
After running 10km in the cold winter of North Germany, a cup of good ol’ coffee sure sounds like a good idea (to me anyway :-).
