The town of Ritterhude in Lower Saxony is located just a stone’s throw from its big sister, the big city chic Bremen, and less than an hour from the refreshing North Sea. It’s also located close to two of the largest breweries in the country, which is reason enough to visit.
Ritterhude’s real claim to fame is the story of the Ries Brothers who left for America at the turn of the 20th century.
Living frugally and working diligently, the two brothers lived the American dream, made a fortune but never forgot where they came from. They donated a excessive sum of money to their home town, which Ritterhude then used the money to build a new City Hall. It’s where you’ll find a memorial stone in dedicated to these local homeboy benefactors.
If you rather have a good German beer (and who wouldn’t), go visit the Becks and St. Paulie Girl Brewery in Bremen. One thing’s for sure, this is serious beer country! At the Schlachte, an old medieval harbor, there are lots of bars and pubs to drink some of the brewery’s different flavored brews.
If beer isn’t your thing, there’s always the beautiful Botanical Gardens to stroll around.
Ritterhude sits right in the middle of historic old windmills on lush green meadows with fun boat rides offered on the moorlands. Get out on the many bicycle trails (if you haven’t had too many St. Paulie Girls) to further appreciated this scenic countryside.
Why not cycle over to the Lower Saxony Artists Village in nearby Worpswede, or the Bird Museum; you most certainly won’t be disappointed.
Another great thing about Rittershude is not only does it have an indoor and outdoor pool, but the crystal clear lakes make for great swimming.
Ritterhude is a town that takes great pride in its festivals, especially the Hammefest, held on the 1st weekend in September. That’s right around the Harvest Celebration. So, grab a Becks and have a good time!
