Berne – History, Nature and Cycling Routes

Discover Berne through its church history, protected landscapes and routes on foot, by bike or on the water. Sometimes the focus is on a glimpse of historic architecture; at other times, it’s a walk through nature or a day out on the bike.

Church History and Culture in Berne

St. Aegidius Church dates back to around 1240. It is a three-aisled Gothic hall church built of sandstone and brick; its construction is attributed to the 11th, 13th and 14th centuries. Its furnishings also add distinctive historical touches: the altar from 1637 and the pulpit from 1639 were made in Ludwig Münstermann’s workshop. The architecture and furnishings thus tell of different periods in the same place.

Another trace of Berne’s history leads to the Breithof. It served as a court site from pre-Christian times until the end of the 20th century. The Kulturmühle Berne offers a varied year-round programme of theatre, exhibitions, concerts and readings. The Kulturmühle association also looks after the preservation of the listed Wefer Mill. In the municipality, the local history museum displays kitchen appliances, craft tools and everyday objects from the region dating from the past 100 years.

Nature Reserves and Wildlife Watching

Warflether Sand and Juliusplate are nature reserves in Berne. The “Nature Tourism Route” runs through the nature reserve on Juliusplate: the walking trail passes information boards that explain the area’s natural significance and cultural history. The route thus combines nature topics with insights into the history of the landscape. You can watch birds at Kiekpad; walks along the dikes are another option in Berne. There are also places to enjoy a picnic with a view.

In Glüsing, the Wesermarsch stork care station looks after white storks. Viewing them up close is possible on request; please enquire before your visit. Nature experiences can take different forms, from a walk along the dike and birdwatching to following the information boards on Juliusplate.

Exploring by Bike and on the Water

Several cycling routes make for an active stay. The “Cycling by the Water” circular route is about 53 kilometres long and connects Berne with Lemwerder. “Water and Wide Open Spaces” starts in Berne/Ohrt, follows the Weser towards Lemwerder and passes, among other places, Juliusplate and Warflether Sand. As route details may change, it is advisable to check the latest tour description before setting off. You can also cycle the Weser Cycle Route in Berne, as well as follow the German Siel Route.

If you prefer cycling in a guided group, the municipality’s tourist programme includes the “Stedinger Land” guided tour programme, with guided bike tours led by local guides. In Berne, you can paddle through the area known as the “Venice of the Wesermarsch”. There are also opportunities for fishing at numerous bodies of water. Yachts and dinghies can anchor at the Juliusplate natural harbour on the Weser; check the harbour’s current operating status in advance.

In Berne, the Weser is listed as having tested water quality and DLRG supervision for swimming. Water quality and supervision may vary by season or change, so check local conditions before swimming.

Seasonal Occasions and a Regional Perspective

Melkhus Schumacher in Berne/Ohrt is one of a total of nine Melkhüs along the German Siel Route. These nine usually operate from May to October; check whether the location is open before your visit. In winter, the traditional kale tour in Berne offers an opportunity to discover local cuisine. Specific dates and packages may vary.

As a broader travel destination, the Wesermarsch provides its own regional setting. It is characterised by 60 kilometres of Wadden Sea coastline and 90 kilometres of riverbanks along the Weser and Hunte. Other features include marshland for cycling and walking tours, as well as a North Sea coast with beaches and nature reserves. The German Siel Route is a circular cycling route through the Wesermarsch, offering a chance to experience marshes and moors, sluices, harbours and towns along the Weser and North Sea coast. Its flat route is especially suitable for cycling with children or on an e-bike.

Discover more destinations: Jade, Ovelgönne, Stollhamm, Sehestedt, Nordenham, Elsfleth, Lemwerder, Langwarden.

See the full travel overview: Wesermarsch.