Wilhelmstein Island

In the middle of Lake Steinhude lies a unique place. Once built as an impregnable fortress, it served as a military academy and research center, and later became a grim, escape-proof prison island: the Wilhelmstein. Today, it is a romantic retreat and a popular destination, offering an unforgettable experience every time. Built by Count Wilhelm zu Schaumburg-Lippe starting in 1761, Germany’s smallest inhabited island holds many secrets.
As soon as you dock by boat and set foot on Wilhelmstein, you’ll feel it: a world of its own, unmatched in history and architecture throughout Europe. Let yourself be swept away to an island that bridges the past and the present. Off to Wilhelmstein!

The island
This small island—each side of the Wilhelmstein is just 120 meters long—in Lower Saxony’s largest inland lake continues to delight visitors today just as it did in the past. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of times gone by and visit the fortress. Explore the eerie living quarters and prison cells, ancient weapons and cannons, the small castle, the bridal chamber, and, of course, the spectacular view from the tower—the highest point on the island—in the heart of the Steinhuder Meer Nature Park.

The most beautiful sunsets
Small gardens, idyllic paths, and places to sit right by the water all around the old fortress invite you to linger. Discover works of art, the Steinhuder Meer Nature Park exhibition space, the fortress as a walk-through museum, delicious food, the Inselhotel’s charming little stone houses with a maritime flair, and the most beautiful sunsets you’ve ever seen.

The fortress
It was meant to be impregnable—and it was. Count Wilhelm, a military commander who had also achieved success in Portugal and was an influential military theorist, had built it to defend Schaumburg-Lippe. He was proven right. In 1787, the small state was occupied by Hessian soldiers: Only the island of Wilhelmstein, with its star-shaped fortress, state-of-the-art cannons, and offshore fortifications, held out!  Wilhelmstein was used as a military academy, a science and research center, and even as an observatory. It attracted many famous visitors—and even served as the model for the Portuguese fortress Fort de Lippe near Elvas. The world’s first submarine, the “Steinhuder Hecht,” was developed here as a prototype. Until 1876, the island served as the Schaumburg-Lippe State Prison and was Germany’s first prison island.

Events
It goes without saying that this special place is also a place for very special moments. Famous names from the worlds of music, literature, theater and comedy regularly come to Wilhelmstein Island and enchant visitors. But it's not just the big names that make Wilhelmstein so lively. It is also the fine culinary experiences that invite you to enjoy. The island's gastronomy provides culinary delights in a relaxed atmosphere with small but exquisite events: it doesn't get more magical than this, see for yourself. 

Gastronomy
Welcome to "Wilhelm 1724" on the island of Wilhelmstein! Experience the love of German cuisine, refined with regional products and a touch of the Mediterranean. Whether fresh fish or rustic classics: enjoy down-to-earth variety and maritime flair on your culinary excursion to the water. Whether it's a small snack or a big break - the island kiosk provides you with hearty snacks, cakes, cool drinks and delicious coffee every day. Find your favorite spot on the island now.

A Vacation on the Island at the Inselhotel
: Two guesthouses featuring historic architecture welcome you with a high-quality, maritime atmosphere designed to make you feel right at home. You can look forward to many thoughtful details, modern amenities, a homemade breakfast, and incredible views of Lake Steinhude.
Click here for more information and to make a reservation

Getting Married on Wilhelmstein
Island There’s no more beautiful place—say “I do” on Wilhelmstein Island, right in the middle of the Steinhuder Meer. You can choose between two wonderful venues: the island’s picturesque outdoor area or the historic wedding chapel in the fortress. No matter which location you choose, Wilhelmstein Island offers the ideal setting to make your wedding an unforgettable experience.

You can also find all the information about Wilhelmstein at www.wilhelmstein.de