Don’t go confusing Sassenburg in Lower Saxony with Sassenberg in North Rhine-Westphalia. Really, although it’s just one freakin’ letter, there isn’t any comparison.
This Sassenburg doesn’t have all too much sightseeing but the three most popular sites around town can keep you busy for a minimum of two days (but, not too much more than that).
Bernsteinsee, in English known as Amber Lake, is one place that will keep you more than busy for the better part of a day. Swimming in the crystal clear water of a man-made lake is quite popular among the residents.
One of the more fun things to do in Sassenburg is to take a ride on the Moorbahn. This little tram rides along for six kilometers through the moorlands. The 5 Euro fee to ride is so worth it since you’ll get a guided tour learning more about the peat, flora, fauna, and more about the natural environment.
To explore along the moorlands on your own follow the Moorland Exhibition route by bike or by foot. The walking trail is a 5 km path and the cycling trail goes on for 12 km; taking you past much of the same natural scenery as the tram.
All this walking and cycling is going to A) make you tired and B) make you hungry. Good thing there are a few nice guesthouses to sleep and some great regional specialties to eat.
Stay the night at either the Gasthof Neuhaus — they’ve been around for over 160 years so they know how to treat guest right. And the Hotel am Bernsteinsee is charming right on the lake.
When you get hungry try some Braunschweiger Wurst (only fitting since Sassenburg is near the city of Braunschweig (Brunswick)) with some pumpernickel bread (for which Lower Saxony is known); wash it down with a good beer and try a piece of Butterkuchen (butter cake for dessert).
Even though Sassenburg doesn’t have all that much to do, all the good eating certainly adds to your stay!
