Easy hikes and walks around Walsleben

The city's first fortifications were built during the 13th century using palisades and a rampart and ditch system, which were later replaced by walls and ramparts. Twenty-four watchtowers and two tall towers further reinforced the city walls. Three gates were added: the Altruppin/Rheinsberg Gate in the north, the Berlin/Bechlin Gate in the south, and the Sea Gate in the east. The city was completely encircled by walls towards the end of the 15th century. The city wall is still almost entirely intact today. https://www.goruma.de/staedte/neuruppin/neuruppin-sehenswuerdigkeiten

The Wichmann Linden tree in Neuruppin is a living natural monument – a tree that breathes history and enriches the city with its serene presence. This impressive winter linden stands near the city wall by the Neuruppin Monastery Church and is one of the oldest trees in the region. With an estimated age of over 700 years, it is not only a botanical highlight but also a symbol of both continuity and change. The tree is hollow after being struck by lightning, but this does not diminish its majestic appearance – on the contrary: it acts as a venerable guardian of the city's history. https://www.baumkunde.de/baumregister/3327-wichmannlinde_in_neuruppin/

The building was erected in 1694 and is the second oldest surviving half-timbered house in the city. It houses the UpHus restaurant and hotel, from which the building takes its name. The St. Lazurus Chapel, a former leper colony, is also part of the complex. It is located at Siechenstraße 4, 16816 Neuruppin. https://www.goruma.de/staedte/neuruppin/neuruppin-sehenswuerdigkeiten

Lake Ruppin covers an area of 8.25 km² and is 14 km long, making it the longest lake in Brandenburg. Its maximum depth is approximately 24 m. A roughly 25 km long circular path leads around the lake, inviting hikers and especially cyclists to explore. To the south of the lake lies Wustrau, a village of about 1,100 inhabitants, which is well worth a visit. The lake receives its water from the Rhin River via the Zermützelsee, the Tetzensee, and the Molchowsee at the Altruppin lock, and flows into the Bützsee via the Wustrauer Rhin. https://www.goruma.de/staedte/neuruppin/neuruppin-sehenswuerdigkeiten

The monumental stainless steel sculpture "Parzival am See" (Parzival by the Lake) on the shore of Lake Ruppin is far more than just a work of art; it is a powerful symbol of change and hope. Standing a proud 17 meters tall, Parzival, created by the artist Matthias Zágon Hohl-Stein, was unveiled in 1998 to mark the town's renaming as "Fontanestadt" (Fontane City). The symbolism is particularly striking: In one hand, Parzival holds a windmill, in the other an ark – symbols of progress and preservation. The sculpture represents a new Neuruppin without a garrison, a city on the move, confronting its history while simultaneously looking to the future. An inspiring place that invites reflection – and a fantastic photo opportunity right on the lakeshore. Anyone visiting Neuruppin should definitely take a look at this modern-day knight. https://tourismus-neuruppin.de/kultur-erleben-neuruppin/sehenswertes-neuruppin/119-parzival-am-see-neuruppin

A stroll to Neuruppin's pier is a true highlight for anyone who loves peace, water, and panoramic views. The path leads along Lake Ruppin, past ancient trees and charming villas, offering frequent glimpses of the shimmering water. The pier itself is a beautiful spot to linger – perfect for a picnic or simply enjoying the view of the old town and its fortifications. The walk is especially lovely in the early morning or at sunset, when the light reflects on the lake, creating an almost magical atmosphere. https://tourismus-neuruppin.de/kultur-erleben-neuruppin/sehenswertes-neuruppin

Even from afar, the landmark of the Fontane city of Neuruppin greets you – the St. Trinitatis Monastery Church on Lake Ruppin with its twin towers. In 1246, Gebhard von Arnstein founded a Dominican monastery here – the first Dominican monastery in what would later become the Margraviate of Brandenburg. Construction of the church began at the same time, and it was later expanded with the addition of a hall church. In 1517, the monastery lost its function due to the Reformation and was demolished. The church, however, survived and was extensively restored between 1836 and 1841 according to the plans of the architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel. The approximately 63-meter-high towers were added in 1907 and can be climbed during a night hike. Right next to the city wall, between the church and Lake Ruppin, stands the over 700-year-old Wichmann Linden tree. Legend has it that Father Wichmann, the first prior of the Dominican monastery, is buried here with a treasure. https://www.tourismus-neuruppin.de/kultur-erleben-neuruppin/sehenswertes-neuruppin/112-klosterkirche-st-trinitatis-wichmannlinde-neuruppin

On the church square, directly behind the parish church of St. Mary, stands the monument to the architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel. It honors the city's famous son, who was born in Neuruppin on March 3, 1781. The childhood home of the future royal architect and city planner once stood on this site. The devastating city fire of 1787 destroyed the house, forcing his widow and her children to move into the Preacher's Widow's House. Schinkel's father was a superintendent and died of pneumonia shortly after the fire. The monument, erected in 1883, was created by the sculptor Max Wiese and depicts the architect holding a drawing of the Berlin Schauspielhaus. https://www.tourismus-neuruppin.de/kultur-erleben-neuruppin/sehenswertes-neuruppin/118-schinkel-denkmal-neuruppin