Quieter than ever since the recent closure of the nearby airport, Tegeler Fließ is a mini getaway full of flora and fauna. Formed by glacial activity during the ice age, this landscape of peat bogs, meadows and woodland follows a 10km-long stream which you can explore on foot or by bike thanks to a clearly-marked boardwalk. A short stroll from Waidmannslust station brings you to the start of the trail, where your nature-spotting can begin. The stars of the show are the water buffalo, introduced in 2015 as a way to conserve the wetlands. And while these 500kg beasts are typically kept inside in winter, there are plenty of other creatures to spot: moor frogs, beavers, cuckoos, cranes and dragonflies all inhabit the reserve depending on season, so don’t forget your binoculars. The path continues for another 3km, after which you can head on towards Tegeler See and the gardens of Tegeler Schloss. FYI: the benches at sunny Marie-Schlei-Platzare a great spot for a lunch break amidst the soothing sound of calling herons. (Text: Benji Haughton / Photos: Savannah van der Niet)
Tegeler Fließ can be explored by bike or on foot starting at S-Bahn station Waidmannslust – you can view the route we took here.
