Located in the Friesland district of Lower Saxony, Schortens has a strong history that dates back to the 5th century, and this is reflected in the structure and buildings in the town itself.
There are a number of older buildings worth a visit around the town, including an airforce base in the Upjever divison of the town has been open since 1936, and is still going strong today. Here you can catch a glimpse of some of the newer planes used by the military today, as well as a couple of old models kept on display as a lasting reminder of days gone by.
I strongly recommend the Accumer Mühle (Accum mill) as your start point for exploring the town. This working gallery windmill dates back to 1746, and offers guided tours within its listed building walls. You can also pick up some rather tasty local German bread at the end of the tour.
The main entertainment center to head for in Schortens is the Bürgherhaus (Community Center). Here you can enjoy fairs, markets, discussions, performances, concerts, and pretty much anything that happens to be on during the time of your stay — there are over 300 events held here every year, so you will almost be spoilt for choice. ;-)
If you prefer something a little more active, take a look at the Freizeitbad Aqua Toll. You could easily spend a day in this spacious leisure complex, alternating between use of the 50m swimming pool, solarium, sun terrace, whirl pool and other water-based attractions. If you prefer to keep drying when exercising, you can also enjoy a round of golf at the 18-hole Wilhelmshaven Gold Club.
Forward thinking and good planning has turned Schortens into an up and coming town with plenty to see and do, as well as several well-preserved nature areas.
