Start of the season at Lake Steinhuder Meer

With sunshine and spring-like temperatures of 17 degrees, we were invited by Hannover Marketing & Tourismus GmbH (HMTG) and Hannover Gin to take part in a special event designed to draw attention to the start of the season in the Holiday Region.

On a boat carrying emigrants—along with representatives from the worlds of politics, tourism, and the press—250 liters of the special edition “Lake Steinhuder Meer/Insel Wilhelmstein” Hannover Gin were transported to Wilhelmstein Island in a hand-selected port wine oak barrel to mature, and then suspended in the crown of a plane tree.

What connects Lake Steinhuder Meer with Hannover Gin? The gale bush (Myrica gale)—an almost forgotten treasure that now grows in only a few regions of Germany, including Lake Steinhuder Meer. This so-called “climate plant” adapts particularly well to changing climatic conditions such as heat, drought, or flooding, and is also used in Hannover Gin. Even the Vikings used the aromatic leaves in the art of beer brewing. Their scent, a beguiling blend of eucalyptus and black tea, now finds its way into the gin. For more than a decade, the company Hannover Gin has been cultivating the endangered plant on its rooftop garden. Now, efforts are also underway to establish it on the island of Wilhelmstein.

Guelder rose bushes as a place of learning

The Gin Project combines traditional botanical knowledge with the challenges of climate change—and invites visitors to experience nature with all their senses. The island’s changing climatic conditions, ranging from blazing sun to icy winds, frost, and snow, influence the gin’s aging process in a very special way. Through the constant movement of the distillate in the barrel, the gin absorbs the distinctive aromas of the port wine barrel—creating a complex flavor profile—matured between heaven and earth, deeply rooted in nature! “With this initiative, we want to set an example for sustainability, regionality, and enjoyment,” says Joerma Biernath, perennial gardener and founder of Hannover Gin.

Fifteen myrtle bushes have now been planted in the western part of Wilhelmstein Island to mark the start of the season, creating an educational space for visitors of all ages. Visitors can view, smell, and touch the plants. The history of the shrub is also on display. It serves as a living archive of botany. 

“This spectacular event makes the start of the season a real treat. And it’s not just the gin on board that makes the roughly 30-minute crossing on Lake Steinhuder Meer an experience—the passenger boat ride is definitely worth it for other reasons as well. Whether on the traditional ‘Auswanderer’ or in your own boat—it’s simply a great opportunity to discover the region from the water,” emphasizes Willi Rehbock, SMT Managing Director.

“The island is famous for its 260-year-old fortress, with its eerily beautiful prison cells, historic weapons, and cannons. But Wilhelmstein is also a charming destination thanks to its many events, both large and small, and its beautiful sunsets. And in the future, a gin barrel dangling from a plane tree will be another talking point.”

Lake Steinhuder Meer Holiday Region
Lake Steinhuder Meer—the largest body of water in northwestern Germany—is much more than just a popular swimming lake. Whether kitesurfing, sailing, or taking a leisurely ride on a pedalboat, sports enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation alike will find something to enjoy on the water. Surrounding the lake, the region invites visitors to explore its well-developed bike paths, tranquil moorlands, and picturesque towns on varied discovery tours. Cafés and restaurants offer moments of indulgence along the way—perfect for a day trip or a short break from everyday life. You can find more information about the Lake Steinhuder Meer Holiday Region here.

Season Highlights 2025

• 68th Festival Weekend, August 22–24 in Steinhude; on August 23, also at the Mardorf beach. Highlight of the program: the double fireworks display on Saturday evening (10 p.m.). For more information on the program and tickets, visit here.
• Antonio Andrade on June 27, Wilhelmstein Island
• Stoppok feat. Tess Wiley on June 28, Wilhelmstein Island
• Nils Landgren Funk Unit on August 15, Wilhelmstein Island
• Timsen on August 16, Wilhelmstein Island
• Murder Mystery Dinner, Wilhemstein Island
• Family Days, Wilhelmstein Island

You can find the detailed program for Wilhelmstein Island in the attachment and at www.wilhelmstein.de