The Calenberger Land

A change of scenery in nature—not far from the city of Hannover 

The Calenberger Land delights visitors with its historic landscape, imposing castles, and medieval architectural complexes. Bordered by the Leine River and the Mittelland Canal to the north and east, and by the Deister hills to the southwest, this region is characterized by its unspoiled natural beauty and proximity to the capital of Lower Saxony. The 21 km, which can be covered quickly, offer hiking enthusiasts, nature lovers, and history buffs a short getaway from the big city.

As the affluent suburbs of Hannover, the Calenberger Land region offers a great opportunity for relaxation. Highlights of the region include the Deisterkreisel, a cycling route around the Deister, as well as the sights of Marienburg Castle and the five Calenberger monasteries: Marienwerder, Wennigsen, Wülfinghausen, Mariensee, and Barsinghausen. Those looking for more than just nature and culture can escape the daylight in the Barsinghausen Monastery Tunnel and experience underground mining in the visitor mine.

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Freedom for 111 animal species

Animal lovers will find plenty to enjoy at the Springe Bison Reserve in the southern part of the Hannover region. Spanning 90 hectares, the reserve is home to both regionally native and critically endangered wildlife species. Facilities such as the falconry center, wolf enclosure, and bird aviaries support conservation and breeding efforts, while the animals are provided with a habitat that is as natural as possible, featuring ponds, meadows, and streams, as well as oak and beech forests.

The park’s name traces back to the bison, which were on the brink of extinction in 1928 and were reintroduced and crossbred at this site. Decades later, the area was expanded into a wildlife park. The facility, which attracts around 170,000 visitors annually, is home not only to the bison that give it its name but also to bald eagles and falcons. These can be admired during guided flight demonstrations or in large aviaries. Those who love the wilderness and four-legged friends can check out the wolf project run by Matthias and Birgit Vogelsang. They live in harmony with a number of timber wolves and polar wolves at the zoo. For visitors who enjoy the fresh air and connecting with nature, this offers a unique opportunity to observe a pack of wolves up close.

© HMTG