Calenberger Land

A change of pace out in nature—not far from the big city of Hanover

The Calenberger Land delights its 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 to the southwest, this small area stands out for its unspoiled nature and proximity to the state capital of Lower Saxony. Just 21 km away, hiking enthusiasts, nature lovers, and history buffs from the big city will find plenty to enjoy.

As the area surrounding Hanover, the Calenberger Land offers excellent opportunities for recreation. Highlights of the region include the Deisterkreisel, a cycling route around the Deister, and the sights of Marienburg Castle and the five Calenberger monasteries: Marienwerder, Monastery Wennigsen, Wülfinghausen, Mariensee, and Barsinghausen. Those who want to experience more than just nature and culture can venture out of the daylight into the Barsinghausen Monastery Tunnels and experience underground mining in the visitor mine.

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Freedom for 111 animal species

Animal lovers will be in their element at the Springe Bison Enclosure in the southern part of the Hannover region. The 90-hectare site is home to both regionally typical and critically endangered wildlife species. Facilities such as the falconry center, wolf enclosure, and bird aviaries serve conservation and breeding purposes, while the animals are provided with a habitat that is as natural as possible, featuring dikes, meadows, streams, and forests of oak and beech trees.

The park’s name comes from the bison, which were threatened with extinction in 1928 and were reintroduced and bred here. A few decades later, the facility was expanded into a wildlife park. The park, which attracts around 170,000 visitors a year, is home not only to the bison that give it its name but also to bald eagles and falcons. These birds can be admired during flight demonstrations with commentary or in their large aviaries. Anyone who loves the wilderness and four-legged creatures can check out the wolf project run by Matthias and Inga Vogelsang. The couple lives in harmony with a whole pack of timber wolves and arctic wolves at the zoo. For visitors who enjoy the fresh air and connecting with nature, this is a unique opportunity to see a wolf pack up close.

© HMTG