Where forests whisper and lakes tell stories

In Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, vast landscapes breathe with the rhythm of the seasons. Salty Baltic air mingles with the scent of ancient forests. Rare species find refuge in protected habitats. From the chalk cliffs of Rügen to the tranquil lakes of the Mecklenburg Lake District, a landscape of rare and remarkable beauty reveals itself — between the Baltic Sea, national parks, and biosphere reserves.

We preserve what has long since disappeared elsewhere. In three national parks, seven nature parks, and three biosphere reserves, we protect nature in its most untouched, wild state — more so than any other German state. In the shallow waters off Rügen, 250 species of migratory birds gather in spectacular numbers.

Jasmund's beech forests are a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site — Germany's smallest national park, but carrying one of its greatest titles. The area includes the Königsstuhl, one of the famous chalk cliffs. Part of the Müritz National Park also belongs to the World Natural Heritage Site of beech forests. It is also celebrated for its fish and white-tailed eagles.

The region's inland waters include 2,033 lakes. More lakes than any other German state. In summer, the lakes are ideal for cooling off, letting off steam, and simply relaxing — but also for experiencing nature at close quarters. If visitors knew just how much was happening in and around the water, they might be surprised to find they're not alone. White-tailed eagles circle above the Müritz, their sharp eyes scanning the clear waters for prey.

Orchids bloom on Lake Schaalsee, where the border between the two German states once ran. Otters have reclaimed the waters, and fire-bellied toads populate the shores. On the south-eastern tip of Rügen, all the coastal habitats of the region can be found in their original, unspoilt state.

The "horizonte zingst" environmental photography festival and the Darß Nature Film Festival draw visual artists and nature lovers from around the world to the Darß peninsula.

Here, what escapes the casual glance is brought into focus: the quiet drama of a sunrise over the Bodden lagoon, the patient wait of an osprey, the delicate power of an orchid blossom.

4,347 kilometres — that's the total length of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's avenues, if laid end to end. These green tunnels have lined the roads since the 18th century, transforming every drive into a journey through botanical architecture. Rügen is the starting point of the German Avenue Road, which crosses the entire region.

Ancient giant as a living monument

A thousand years of history reach toward the sky in the Ivenacker Hutewald forest. The mightiest oak in Germany measures almost three and a half metres in diameter. Its gnarled branches have endured for generations. Fallow deer graze among the giant trees, while wild Konik horses leave their prints in the soft forest floor. From the treetop path, coming face to face with these living monument is an experience that stays.

Since 2011, the therapeutic benefits of forests have been enshrined in state forestry law. In ten healing and therapeutic forests, the power of nature is harnessed as a "green pharmacy" for prevention and rehabilitation. Professionally certified forest therapies, ideally guided by trained forest therapists, offer high-quality therapeutic approaches. The development of these special forests is coordinated by the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Spa Association.

Explore the countryside — and let nature tell you its most beautiful stories.