As you pass through Teltow and step off the bus at Stansdorf, the first thing you’ll see is a two-story building perched on the corner. And the first thing you’ll smell is the freshness of the lush green park opposite. Marktplatz Waldschänke is a heritage site, built in the late 1910s, with cottage character. It reminds me of an enchanted gingerbread house. You can imagine what it means to the local community, nothing short of an icon — beloved and cherished. More than just the building itself, it stands surrounded by a beer garden, a large dining courtyard at the cafe, a spot to chill by the fire or make woodfired pizza, swings to swing on, an ice-cream bar, or some freshly baked bread from Domberger Brot-Werk. The bread station is an ex-military trailer with a built-in wood fire oven. There are so many layers and elements to this space, nooks and crannies to explore, you’d need at least half a day to take it all in.

My favorite component is the barn house, replenished and revamped into a beautiful dining space to sit and enjoy coffee and cake. Our favorite is the vegan carrot cake and the lemon cheesecake. Alternatively, you can reserve it for a private function. The furniture has either been built from scraps by Adrian Schefer and his team or donated by the community. There’s a huge sense of nostalgia — finding the joy in how nothing matches, and pieces had a whole other life before arriving here. The entire space is designed to bring people together while supporting the local community. A lot of love and contribution has gone into Walderschänke, whether it be from material donations, labour efforts, or simply sharing the space with other business owners. Adrian, with his deep knowledge of Waldschänke’s history, years of experience opening and running businesses in Berlin, and a passion for up-cycling, has been slowly and carefully reviving the space. There’s still plenty to do, so an “all hands on deck” spirit is welcome. Visitors can stop by Thursday through Sunday or book for private events.

Text & photos: Ruby Watt

Marktplatz Waldschänke, Wannseestr.21, 14532, Berlin–Stahnsdorf; map

@marktplatz_waldschaenke

Sometimes all you need is to switch off, go offline, and take a deep breath. Just an hour from Berlin, tucked between open fields and the Spree River, where Brandenburg still feels untouched, a special place awaits. The Alte Flachsfarm, on the edge of the Spreewald, is a listed farmhouse with a blooming garden and quiet charm. It’s a retreat with soul, simplicity, and great attention to detail. Flax once grew here — the striking, blue-flowered plant used to make linen. The region around Cottbus was known for its weaving mills and textile craft, once the heart of Germany’s clothmakers’ guild. Today, the former site of production is a place to pause, breathe, and be present. The property is vast and green, and not only a haven for people but also for hedgehogs, skylarks, nightingales, pheasants, and other residents of the neighboring nature reserve. Caterina Rancho, photographer and host, has created a peaceful paradise, perfect for creative retreats and workshops, relaxed weekends with friends, or a solo break to recharge.

Inside the house, find four thoughtfully designed bedrooms, cozy living areas with a fireplace, and a fully equipped kitchen. Outside is a park-like garden filled with bees and blossoms, a glass-fronted sauna with views of the countryside, shady fruit trees, and (just an eight-minute walk away) several hidden swimming spots along the Spree. The farm strikes a rare balance: secluded enough to unwind, close enough to explore. From here, it’s a 30-minute bike ride to the Spreewald, or 25 minutes to the old town of Cottbus. My tip: sip your morning coffee among rose bushes and berry vines, then end the day in the sauna under the stars. No plans, no pressure, just be.

Text: Milena Kalojanov / Photos: Caterina Rancho

Alte Flachsfarm, Neues Dorf 4, 03054 Cottbus; map
You can book here (dogs are not allowed).

@alteflachsfarm_caterinarancho

Waiting lists are long, and demand is high. Anyone who has ever sweated it out in one of María Rosa’s hardcore Pilates or Booty & Abs classes knows. Since the beginning of July 2025, María has found her own permanent home for the workouts. Sol Studio is a new space for Pilates and strength training that she opened in collaboration with architect and designer Benjamin Brenner. Sol is located in a Kreuzberg backyard and feels less like a classic fitness room and more like an open design studio: a latex backdrop, an oxblood seating sculpture, pierced benches and walls, plus a sound system that you could dance the night away to. The concept? High-intensity training that challenges you, but at your own pace. In open class formats, you can find your rhythm and still let yourself be carried away by the energy of the group.

Whether it’s controlled Pilates, intensive strength training, or stretching, every session is part of a collective movement where everyone is welcome, regardless of experience or fitness level. Alongside María, carefully selected trainers teach, bringing their unique touch to the room. FLINTA*-Only Classes take place regularly. You can find an overview of all workouts on the website, where you can also book your spot. And if you want more after your first training session, three- and six-month memberships help you commit and establish a routine. I can promise you this, even after six months, you’ll still be working up a sweat here.

Text: Robyn Steffen / Photos: Linus Muellerschoen & Rita Lino

Sol Studio, Oranienstr.183 (2nd backyard), 10999 Berlin–Kreuzberg; map

@_sol_sol_sol_sol_