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.
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. ;-)
