On the west side of what was once the Inner German Border is the town of Rühen, which is actually part of the Samtgemeinde Brome since the mid-1990s.
Whatever geographical, political what-not the town chooses to associate itself with is of little consequence; I just think the place is pretty cool. Ok, that might not be the best adjective to describe the place — but once you hear all about it, you can fill in your own.
For something historical and educational, I can’t think of a better place than along the Border Trail. From 1945 to 1989 the country was divided between East & West, and a guided tour is the best way to learn about the division through the later years of the 20th century.
Rühen — Top Areas Of Interest
It might not be educational to stroll along the banks of the Mitteland Canal, but it is a great place to just watch the ships pass by. And it wouldn’t hurt to venture out a bit further to places like the Lüneburg Heath (along with other nature areas) to see plenty of wildlife like otters; storks; deer; and badgers. Then again, there’s fishing to be done at the Ohrsee if you’re interested. A carriage ride is a brilliant thing to do, too.
All right, the educational and the natural — let’s get to the architectural. In the village of Brechtorf is an old fortified church, known for its frescoes. As for Burg Brome, the 16th century castle is now a museum with exhibits on things like blacksmithing and shoemaking.
The only thing left to do is “party like a Rockstar,” as these kids today say. Ok, ok, it isn’t all like that here in Rühen, but you can have a blast at community events like the Kartoffelfest (Potato Festival) in September, the Gemeindefest and Summer Festival — both in July, the Castle Festival in August, and the Christmas Market at the end of November.
Do you see why I say Rühen is a pretty cool place? I’d love to hear what you would call it — let me know. ;-)