How many of you ever picked a spot to vacation; gotten there and found it wasn’t what you were looking for? When you’ve got an idea of historic Germany (like lots of half-timbered houses and castles) then you might not like Goldenstedt that much.
I’m not saying to not come to Goldenstedt, not at all, but this isn’t “Old World” Germany, if that’s what you’re looking for.
On the other hand, if you’re the bicycling and hiking (or anything outdoorsy) kind of person then this is exactly where you’ll want to be.
Let me start by saying that Goldenstedt isn’t totally devoid of anything historical. There’s the old medieval Stadtmauer (a defense wall) and a museum experience into life during its East German days.
Everything else you’re going to do or see in Goldenstedt you’re going to have to “work” for it. By that I mean get yourself a bicycle and ride through the Herrenholz State Forest or find one along the Hartensbergsee.
I would suggest stopping there for a while since it’s both a swimming lake and offers canoeing. Too tired to keep going? Camping is available right along the lake, so you won’t have to go too far to rest for the night.
Good idea to conserve energy before you’re off to see the Goldenstedter Moors, a bog area that was created from the Ice Age. Take the small “train” throughout this nature protected area for an informative trip around.
It’s back to the bikes or walking if you’re following the Aqua Tour. There are four different routes that vary in length (the shortest is only 1km, the longest 33km) that all have to do about water. Get yourself a map at the Rathaus so you don’t get lost.
There’s something about water that keeps attracting people here. Not only is there swimming and canoeing (did I already say that?), but also fishing and rowing too.
I would say save all that until after Goldenstedt’s Spring Festival (early May) with a flea market and lots of food, dancing, and music.
For as much as I love German castles, I can even overlook that to come to Goldenstedt. It’s worth it for the Moors and the nice people here alone! ;-)
