Located in the northern German province of Schleswig-Holstein, Elmshorn is a picturesque town that teems with history. It is 32km (20mi) north of Hamburg close to the spot where the Krückau River meets the Elbe.
Throughout its colorful past, the town was the center of food processing for the northern regions of Germany. It produced products such as meat, sausage, margarine and cereal.
If you visit there today, you will enjoy shopping on the Buttermarkt, a beautiful town square and commercial center.
The Kölln Corporation, which was established in 1795, still has production facilities in Elmshorn and manufactures some of Germany’s most popular cereal products. The company originally established itself as a supplier of ship’s biscuits to whalers that were embarking from ports on the North Sea.
Descendants of the original Kölln founder have restored some of the original buildings to their historical glory. One of the most appealing is a restaurant called Mercator, which is listed as a historic monument by the government — a charming and interesting place to dine if you are in the area.
Cyclists will find many scenic routes to ride near Elmshorn. Because it is located between the North Sea and Baltic Sea, much of the land is low-lying and flat. Bicycle routes therefore provide a pleasant ride through lovely seaside areas and river bottoms.
There are many places you can rent a bike and arrange for a guided cycling tour, or strike out on your own to explore the countryside.
Fans of classical music will want to attend the Schleswig-Holstein Musik Festival. There are concerts held from the middle of July through the beginning of September at sites all around the area. Many musical events are performed in the countryside at castles, gardens, barns, churches, and other fascinating locations.
Or in other words, accomplished musicians from all over the world participate every year in more than 150 concerts held at 70 venues. ;-)
