The Steinhuder Meer or Lake Steinhude is a lake in Lower Saxony, Germany. The Lake is located 30 KM northwest of Hanover. It lies within a region known as the Hanoverian Moor Geest. The lake is named after the nearby village of Steinhude and has an area of about 30 square kilometers. The Steinhuder Meer is the largest lake in northwestern Germany. Lake Steinhude is very shallow, with an average depth of only 4.4 ft and a maximum depth of fewer than 9.8 ft.
The Steinhuder Meer is part of the glacial landscape formed after the recession of the glaciers of the latest Ice Age, the Weichselian glaciation. Nature lovers can join one of the nature and landscape tours and with luck catch a glimpse of sea eagles. The environment around the lake can be best explored as a one or two-day trip around the Steinhuder Meer.
The two theories explained the formation of Lake Steinhuder. The first one says that glaciers gouged out the hole and meltwater filled it. However, the other theory says that an ice storm formed the hole and as the groundwater rose, the lake was formed. The most important is the 18th-century fortification small artificial island “The Wilhelmstein”.
Wilhelmstein Island was built around 1761 to 1765 and then used as a military fortress. Afterward, it was used as a military school. It is located in the middle of the lake. The Steinhuder Meer is the heart of the nature reserve and is also used as a recreational area.
The other Badeinsel Steinhude was built in 1975 using sand retrieved from the lake. It has a sandy beach which is popular during summer. Access to this island is via the 80m pedestrian bridge from Steinhude. The lake offers the opportunity for sailing and surfing for water enthusiasts.
The Steinhuder Meer as a Tourist Place
Lake Steinhauer is a famous destination for locals and for vacationists. Up to three ships offer cruises; they are supplemented by smaller boats running on schedule across the lake. The various small shops, seafood restaurants, and markets invite you to take a stroll or enjoy a good meal. A beautiful bike path encircles the lake, crossing various landscapes.
Also Read: The Natural Smoking Hills of Canada
