The Osterholz District occupies the region directly north of Bremen known as the Teufelsmoor, or “Devil’s Fen.” You will find no trace of the devil here now, of course, but this once was a barren land, brought to cultivation only through the back-breaking labor of farmers in the 18th century. ;-)
Osterholz District Map
Towns & Villages in the Osterholz District
- Lilienthal
- Lübberstedt
- Osterholz-Scharmbeck
- Ritterhude
- Schwanewede
- Vollersode
- Worpswede
Today you can still see the quiet old canals that provided transportation, drainage and irrigation to the countryside. Look for the tarred-brown sails of narrow Moorbauern sailboats passing by colorful farmlands, an idyllic scene to photograph and remember.
The district seat is Osterholz-Scharmbeck, noted for its bustling marketplace and many cultural events, including town fairs, an annual Christmas pageant and a local music festival.
For sightseeing, be sure to visit the town’s 17th-century Bürgerhaus on Hunde street, the four-bladed windmill of Rönn (since 1882), and the beautiful Romanesque basilica of the town’s 16th-century monastery.
Closer to Bremen on the Wörpe River, Lilienthal is the perfect venue for launching bicycle and hiking excursions into the Teufelsmoor. Stop here to admire the lovely Monastery of St. Mary’s Church and the fascinating Lower Saxony Carriage Museum.
Also offering easy access to the fenlands and bike trails are Grasberg on the Wörpe and Worpswede near the Hamme River. Both towns lie along the so-called “Artists Route,” where the beautiful landscape is sure to inspire you.
