ゲルリッツの湖・トップ20

Flooded open-cast lignite mine. Today a recreational area at the foot of the Zittau Mountains.

A beautiful local recreation area has been created here from an old lignite open-cast mine.

Anyone cycling through Bad Muskau and wondering whether landscape can be art should simply dismount. Because Muskau Park isn't a green space; it's a poem in trees, paths, and sightlines. Designed by the eccentric Prince Pückler, who wanted to impress with gardens more than with wars, it is now rightfully a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And you notice this with every pedal stroke. One-third of the park lies in Germany, two-thirds in Poland – a European masterpiece of garden design that knows no boundaries except those of good taste. There are no "signs with arrows" here, but rather sightlines that guide you. You cycle past ancient oaks, over gentle bridges, through light avenues. And then, suddenly, it appears: the New Palace. So red, so magnificent, so playfully baroque that you'd think a piece of cotton candy had become a listed building. Behind the palace, the building is reflected in the water like an embarrassed self-portrait, framed by flowers, bushes, and the stories of those who once strolled here – and now picnic. Those seeking open spaces will find it. Those seeking peace and quiet will too. And those who simply want to cycle have rarely had a more beautiful ride. The Prince Pückler Park is not a place you "visit" – you encounter it. And sometimes, when the light is right and the palace glows, you also encounter yourself a little bit anew.

Cycle path directly by the lake

Beautiful stretch of sandy beach on Lake Bärwalder.

This lake, which was created through open-cast mining, was flooded in 1999 and is located near Zittau. From hiking, swimming, swimming, beach volleyball, cycling on specially designed cycle paths to trendy sports such as surfing and Nordic walking, the lake offers a wide selection of leisure activities. About 1 km away there is a stop for the steam-powered narrow-gauge railway on the Zittau - Jonsdorf or Zittau - Kurort Oybin route.

Not a UNESCO World Heritage Site for nothing! One third of the park on the German side, two thirds of the park on the Polish side. The extensive landscape park has a great stock of trees and impresses with generous visual axes. The New Castle of Prince Pückler has been wonderfully restored and shines from afar.

great great wonderful ;o)