Wilsede

The idyllic, car-free heathland village of Wilsede is nestled at the heart of Lüneburg Heath Nature Reserve.

What makes Wilsede so special is that the village can only be reached on foot, by bike, or by horse-drawn carriage.  We recommend the accredited Lüneburg Heath coachmen for horse-drawn carriage rides.

This centuries-old village, whose buildings are steeped in history, could easily be mistaken for a living museum.

During the summer season, tourists flock to the village of Wilsede whose residents number no more than forty. Apart from visiting the museum and the exhibition in the sheep pen, you can also admire the many thatched houses as you stroll around the village.

The numerous cafés and restaurants in Wilsede are pleasant spots to while away a little time.

This little piece of paradise is a unique experience at the heart of Germany’s oldest nature reserve.

What’s to see in Wilsede:

While you’re in Wilsede, make sure you pay a call to the heathland museum Dat ole Huus. This impressive exhibition enables visitors to experience the life of farmers around the time of 1850.  

The former sheep pen at Emhoff farm hosts a variety of special exhibitions during the summer season, giving visitors the chance to learn about the cultural landscape of Lüneburg Heath and the nature conservation society, Verein Naturschutzpark e.V.

On the same farm, an exhibition of pictures in the loft storehouse portrays the biodiversity of the flora and fauna in the nature reserve.

Between spring and autumn, visitors can admire a collection of the region’s typical plants that are grown in the herb, shrub and vegetable garden.

The Emhoff in Wilsede is also home to a small oratory in honour to the Way of St James, which is the perfect retreat for a little contemplation. A stamp for pilgrim passes is also available in the oratory.

The Milchhalle in Wilsede is an ideal place for a rest, serving satisfying meals and light snacks. They offer a range of delicious buckwheat dishes as well.

The museum shop stocks souvenirs such as honey and hiking maps to take home as gifts for friends and family.

The landmark of Lüneburg Heath, the Wilseder Berg, can be reached easily on foot from Wilsede.

The 169-metre-high hill affords hikers a magnificent panoramic view across the heathland.

Your trip to Wilsede starts from one of the designated car parks, for example in Undeloh, Niederhaverbeck, Overhaverbeck and Döhle.

There is a dense network of hiking and cycle trails for you to enjoy, as well as signposted Nordic walking circuits.

Hiking paths from Wilsede: The Pastor-Bode, Lila Krönung and Heidschnuckenweg hiking trails

Bike rides from Wilsede: The Heathland Experience Route, the Heathland Art Route, the Leine-Heide Cycle Path, the Heathland Water Route

Please note:

The heathland town of Wilsede is located within the car-free Lüneburg Heath Nature Reserve and cannot be accessed by car.

Parking: You can leave your car in the visitors’ car parks in Niederhaverbeck and Undeloh. Hiking paths lead from the visitors’ car parks to Wilsede. Alternatively, you can cycle or take a horse-drawn carriage to the village.