Discover Osterholz: Art, Moor and Water

Osterholz offers a distinctive contrast between art history and moorland. Worpswede is a cultural hub in the district; at the same time, the town is set within the cultural landscape of the Teufelsmoor, where nature, history and culture come together. When planning your trip, it is worth looking first at the experiences on offer: museums and architecture tell a different story of the area than peat-barge trips, cycling routes or views across the Hammeniederung. Choose your accommodation based on which of these aspects interests you most.

Art history and architecture in Worpswede

Worpswede is a cultural centre in the Osterholz district. The Worpsweder Kunsthalle permanently displays works by the first generation of Worpswede painters and their successors. The Museum am Modersohn-Haus displays works by the first generation of Worpswede painters; in the former home of Paula Modersohn-Becker and Otto Modersohn, Paula Modersohn-Becker’s life is brought to life through artworks and photographs. Together, the venues offer different insights into the town’s art history.

The Barkenhoff also connects a specific place with Heinrich Vogeler’s story: from 1895 to 1923, it was his home and workplace. The exhibition at the Barkenhoff offers a comprehensive insight into Vogeler’s work—from his time at the Düsseldorf Art Academy through Art Nouveau and Expressionism to the new realist painting. This makes it possible to explore his artistic development across different phases of his work.

Another architectural highlight is Bernhard Hoetger’s Expressionist ensemble, which includes the Große Kunstschau and Kaffee Worpswede. The Große Kunstschau was built in 1927 and Kaffee Worpswede in 1925. Designed like a sculpture made of red brick, the Kunstschau presents works by Heinrich Vogeler, Otto Modersohn, Paula Modersohn-Becker, Hans am Ende, Fritz Overbeck, Fritz Mackensen and Carl Vinnen. Architecture and art share the spotlight here; the artists’ names connect this place with works also found in Worpswede’s other exhibition venues.

Moorland, water and trails

Beyond the museums, moorland and water offer further experiences. Parts of the Teufelsmoor in the Osterholz district provide habitats for endangered animal and plant species and a unique natural experience for visitors. The Hammeniederung also extends into the district and is one of the most significant large-scale wetlands and one of the last extensive floodplain landscapes in northwestern Germany. On the Lower Weser, Harriersand is part of a protected landscape complex. Alongside the art history, these landscapes give your stay a distinct connection to nature.

From May to early October, peat-barge trips depart from Neu Helgoland in Worpswede. Replicas of historic peat barges explore the Hamme. Seasonal dates may change from year to year, so check them before planning your trip. The Moorexpress offers another perspective on the Teufelsmoor: in summer, it runs on Saturdays and public holidays between Bremen and Stade, passing through Worpswede and the Teufelsmoor. Here too, operating days may vary each year, so it is worth checking the current timetable.

If you would like to explore the area on foot or by bike, Worpswede offers various options. The Weyerberger Sliekpad starts at the Worpswede Tourist Information Office and passes some of the artists’ village and Weyerberg’s most beautiful spots. Access to the trail may vary for nature conservation reasons. The cycling network in and around Worpswede is signposted to ADFC standards and has a junction system that lets you tailor your routes. Guided walks through the town and cycling tours are also available, offering a closer look at Worpswede and the Teufelsmoor.

More perspectives in Osterholz-Scharmbeck

Osterholz-Scharmbeck has its own highlights, too. The Benedictine nuns’ monastery church there dates back to the 12th century. On Sundays from May to October, the water tower offers panoramic views of the Hammeniederung and Bremen. As opening is described as seasonal, check current access before visiting. This lets you discover a historic building and a sweeping view across the landscape as two distinct impressions of the town.

Discover more destinations: Worpswede, Ritterhude, Vollersode, Osterholz-Scharmbeck, Lilienthal, Dannenberg, Grasberg, Hambergen, Schwanewede and Lübberstedt.

Back to the main travel overview: Lower Saxony.